A Straightforward Guide on How to Get a
Police Report for a Car Accident
Six million automobile accidents occur in the United States every year.
It's simple; we are a very distracted society, and behind the wheel, the laundry list of things occupying our attention is endless: your phone, the radio, or even the other people riding with you.
Whether the police arrive at the scene or not, knowing how to get a police report for a car accident is a vital piece for car insurance, personal injury, and civil cases.
A police report for a car accident is a very valuable roadmap for the events that took place. Use this guide to make sure you know how to get a police report for a car accident before it's too late.
Why You Should Know How To Get A Police Report For A Car Accident
A police report tells the most detailed story of the accident that took place. There are details such as time, date, and location. The incident is described in full color by the police officer who reported to the scene or the individual reporting the accident.
This report is the key piece you need when you are seeking to file a claim or open a case in regards to your accident. Without the report, there is no proof the accident ever happened.
When considering if you should report a car accident, you should still contact the police and have them write up a file for your personal records, even for accidents that cause little damage.
Sweat The Small Stuff
It is imperative to report even the smallest of collisions. Don't hesitate to file a report because you think an accident is insignificant.
Initial damage to you or your vehicle is not always apparent immediately after the accident. The police can make an unbiased report of the events to serve as a record for both parties about the accident.
Choosing To Report A Car Accident
There is always the chance that you got into an accident or a fender bender, and the police did not come to the scene. If the police chose not to come to the accident scene or were unable to, you must get as much information as possible about the accident.
Take photos, collect names, and record every key part of the accident on paper; that way, you can communicate clearly and concisely to the police about the accident for filing the report. Use witnesses who can give an account for a post-car accident police report.
Obtaining A Copy
Once your report is filed, it is important that you know how to get a police report for a car accident. Visit your law enforcement agency's database of reports. There, you should be able to use your case number, name, or driver's license number to pull up a copy.
After paying a small administration fee, you can download a copy to your computer and print it for your personal records.
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