Going through a car accident that logically requires law enforcement to be present is a scary experience, but many people forego calling the authorities due to the general fear of what occurred. However, there are various criteria for reporting a crash to law enforcement and by knowing what they are, you can ensure that you get maximum compensation for any legal claims that you may have. Getting a police report is crucial, though, as it is the official record of the incident. It’s also what you’ll use to establish liability, support your insurance claims, and for key evidence during legal disputes.
Whether we’re talking about minor damage to your vehicle or severe injuries, having access to a documented and clear police report can help you protect your rights and ensure compensation if you are entitled. Learn the most common mistakes people make when filing a police report so that you can avoid making the same exact mistakes.
Failing to File a Report or Delaying It
One of the biggest mistakes that people make when filing a police report is taking too long. The simple fact is that police reports should be filed right after an accident occurs, because the sooner you file a report, the fresher the evidence will be. It also helps ensure an accurate recollection of events because your memory is still fresh. If you delay the police report, there might be conflicting stories or missing information.
Furthermore, there are many states where accidents must be reported right away, particularly if there are any fatalities or injuries. The same is true in some states as well if there is property damage. If you don’t comply with these laws, then there might be legal complications or penalties. Your case will also weaken the longer you wait to file your report, and this means that it becomes more difficult to prove fault and get your compensation. Insurance companies will likely question how valid your claim is if you wait so long.
Providing Inaccurate or Incomplete Information
Another mistake that many people make when filing a police report about a car accident is being inaccurate. Some of the biggest issues include getting the time and location wrong, misrepresenting the sequence of events, or just leaving details out. These can all result in your claim being denied. If you end up in a legal proceeding or insurance dispute, all incomplete aspects of your report, as well as inaccuracies and inconsistencies, will weaken your credibility. Double-check all your information before the police report is finalized to avoid this.
Failing to Include Key Details
The next mistake that too many people make when filing a police report is completely leaving things out. There are many important pieces of information that must be included, even if you don’t personally deem them to be important. For example, include witness names and their contact information, weather and road conditions, traffic signals at the scene, vehicle conditions, and everything else you can think of.
Even the smallest of details can help your personal injury lawyer reconstruct the accident and prove that you are not at fault. It’s all about being clear when there are conflicting statements. The more comprehensive your report is, the stronger your case will be.
Not Reporting Injuries or Medical Conditions
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when reporting a car accident is failing to report injuries. Although some injuries may seem minor, everything should be reported. Furthermore, keep in mind that shock and adrenaline can mask injuries and pain, so you need to wait a little bit to see if any other injuries manifest. If you don’t properly document your injuries, you’ll run into problems when it comes to getting your insurance payouts.
Although some symptoms may take days to manifest, you’ll still want to document them when they do. This should be done by visiting an authorized medical representative who can make a record of your visit and any injuries you have, as well as the pain you are suffering. Always report any kind of discomfort or pain you have following a car accident to the authorities at the scene as well.
Assuming Fault or Apologizing for the Accident
Many people like to say that they’re sorry out of instinct, but admitting fault prematurely is perhaps one of the worst things that you could do after a car accident. If you admit fault, even when you didn’t mean it or in uncertain terms, it could be interpreted as you admitting your liability. Even simply speculating about what happened could be seen as an admission of liability.
Never make any kind of statements that could be used against you as attorneys and insurance companies may try to do this. When you’re speaking to law enforcement, always stick to the facts, avoid speculating, and don’t make any assumptions about the accident.
Not Requesting a Copy of the Report
The final mistake that you want to avoid making after filing a police report is not requesting a copy of it. Although you might assume that you don’t need it, you certainly will. If you don’t have a copy of the police report, you might find it difficult to provide accurate details when you’re filing your insurance claims or seeking any other kind of legal assistance.
Being able to review your police report will allow you to make sure that it’s accurate and quickly address discrepancies before they become major issues. Therefore, as soon as it is available, request a copy of the police report and keep it for your records.
Ensure accuracy to protect your rights when filing a report
Filing a police report after an accident is one of the most essential steps you can take to protect both your financial and legal interests. However, common mistakes like delaying the report, providing incomplete or inaccurate information, leaving out details, admitting fault, or failing to report injuries can all have serious consequences. Be extremely thorough and proactive when filing your report by making sure it’s complete and then requesting a copy of it when all has been said and done.
