The average person will experience about four accidents throughout their lifetime, so it’s a good idea to understand how an accident report works.
Accidents, no matter how serious, are hectic and confusing. An accident report helps to clarify the details of the crash so that you can receive fair compensation. We’re sharing all the information you need to know about these reports to help ease the stress of your next collision.
Why an Accident Report Matters
After a traffic accident, a police report is essential as it serves as a standardized method of communication to all concerned parties. Insurance companies, legal teams, actuaries, and other professionals will benefit from this concise data.
Accident reports also help communicate your side of the story to the police. If you call officers to the scene, they will be able to attest to the realities concerning fault, damages, and injuries.
What Is Included in an Accident Report?
The officer at the scene will investigate the accident and report the following information:
- Approximate date, time, and location of the collision
- Identifying information for all involved parties
- Eyewitness identification and statements
- Location of vehicle damage
- Weather, roadway, and visibility conditions
- Statements from involved parties
- Citations and law violations
- Cause of the collision and fault determination according to the officer’s opinion
How to Get a Copy of Your Accident Report
You will need a copy of your accident report to file an insurance claim, but how do you obtain one? This process depends on the state in which the incident occurred, but in general, you can find your report online.
In the state of Utah, the easiest way to get a copy of your accident report is through the Department of Public Safety’s online portal. You will need your name, driver’s license number, case number, and the date of the accident to access the report. You can then have it mailed to you or print it from home.
Read Your Accident Report and Check the Facts
After you obtain a copy of your accident report, it is crucial to take a thorough read of the document. If you notice any discrepancies, you must contact the police department through their non-emergency number to start the process of having the report amended. A lawyer is a very helpful tool in ensuring these errors are corrected.
Typographical errors, such as misspellings of a name, do not have a significant effect on the case; however, informational exclusions or miscommunications are serious issues that should be amended.
What to Do If You Do Not Have an Accident Report
Failing to report an accident could give your insurance company an easy reason to deny your claim. If you do not file a police report at the scene of the incident, at least make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. You should also photograph any damage and write down the time, date, and location of the accident. You can always take this information to a police station later to file an official statement.
Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks Can Help
If you have been involved in an automobile crash and have concerns about your accident report, the personal injury attorneys at Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks are here for you. With more than 50 years of combined experience, our team will fight to help you receive the compensation you deserve after your accident.
We have offices located in Provo and South Jordan, Utah. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.