The police accident report is key evidence in vehicle crash cases. It’s also one of the documents you’ll want to show your vehicle accident lawyer as you start legal proceedings. How do police reports help with fault determination, and what other proof could help you resolve your claim successfully?
Why You Need a Police Report After an Accident
Indiana law requires you to contact the police after any accident that causes injuries (even minor ones) or property damage over $1,000. When you call 911 after an accident, law enforcement will arrive and create an official report. If your accident isn’t severe enough to justify calling 911, you have 10 days to report it to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
You can easily access your accident’s police report via BuyCrash for a small fee. Insurance companies and lawyers usually request a copy of this report when working on an accident investigation.
What Does a Police Report Include?
The police report lists technical details, such as the accident’s location, date, and time. It also describes how the accident happened and notes any traffic violations either of the drivers likely committed. Police officers often include an assessment of who was likely at fault.
The report also covers any visible harm the accident caused, such as obvious injuries and vehicle damage. It may also include witness statements and statements from the involved motorists. Finally, the reporting officer may attach accident scene documentation, such as photos or diagrams, to help explain why the accident happened.
How Can a Police Report Help Your Case?
The police report is an official, neutral document that describes the accident. Vehicle accident lawyers and insurance adjusters may refer to it when determining who is responsible.
A clear, conclusive accident report may motivate the at-fault driver’s insurer to settle your case quickly. It can help prevent liability disputes and exhausting dragged-out claims. While police reports aren’t always admissible as evidence in court, they often carry major weight in the insurance claim process.
What If the Police Report Contains Mistakes?
When you read your accident report, make sure to review it carefully for any mistakes or inaccuracies. The other side can use those to dispute your claim.
If you notice an error, you can contact the police department and ask them to correct the report. This is usually easier to do if the mistake is technical, like an incorrect time or address. You may need to provide additional proof if you disagree with a more substantial detail (e.g., the officer noted you were likely speeding while you know you weren’t).
Other Important Evidence for Your Car Accident Claim
While the police report is important, your claim could also lean on other evidence. Specifically, you’ll need detailed and complete injury documentation to establish a link between the accident and any damage you suffered. Make sure to see a doctor after the accident, follow their instructions to a T, and attend any follow-up appointments. Save all your medical records and bills.
Photos from the scene, dash cam footage, and (in commercial vehicle accidents) black box data and driver logs may likewise support your claim. In complex cases, your attorney may suggest enlisting expert witnesses like accident reconstructionists or medical professionals.
Stewart & Stewart Attorneys: Indianapolis Vehicle Accident Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights
Are you preparing to file an insurance claim after a severe car accident in Indiana? Talk to our legal team at Stewart & Stewart Attorneys. Our skilled vehicle accident lawyers will review your available evidence, present a strong case, and work hard to help you secure a fair settlement.
Call (800)-333-3529 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.