A police report is a useful resource in any accident claim even if you were not injured. Knowing how to quickly and easily access this document can help streamline the aftermath of your accident. Learn more about the purpose of police reports and how you can obtain a copy of yours.
Filing a Police Report After an Accident
Accident reports are comprehensive records of an accident and function as an important reference for filing a claim. These reports are neutral, third-party accounts of the accident that include information such as:
- Road and weather conditions
- Vehicle information
- Witness statements
- Information of parties involved
- Layout of the scene of the accident
- Additional details such as traffic violations, officers on the scene, etc.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, one of the main actions to take is contacting authorities so that a report can be written up. Even if there are no injuries, this report can serve as a piece of evidence to prove liability so that you are fairly compensated for damages such as vehicle repair or replacement, rental car fees, and more. Otherwise, it becomes a matter of your word against the other driver’s. Read more about mistakes to avoid after a car accident here.
Am I Required to File an Accident Report?
The aftermath of a car accident can be chaotic. Filing an accident report works in your favor and is a solid record of details that many may forget about. In many states, it is required by law to file a report, and violating this could result in penalties. In Missouri, for example, you must report an accident if it meets the following criteria:
- The accident happened less than a year ago
- The accident involved an uninsured motorist
- The accident caused property damage costing over $500
- The accident caused injury or death
Looking for a guide on filing your car accident claim? Check out our blog.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Report After an Accident
The time it takes for a report to become available can depend on one law enforcement department to another. Factors that come into play here include staff availability, competing priorities, and more. Preliminary reports may be available within an hour or a day while full reports may need more time to be worked through. Check with your specific law enforcement agency for details on what you can expect.
For example, the Missouri Highway Patrol asks that the public give them at least 10 working days from the date of the crash before requesting a report.
Can I Get an Accident Report Online?
Yes, in most cases it is possible to request a report online.
Again, it’s best practice to check with your local agency to see what options are available to you. Many law enforcement agencies implement multiple methods for obtaining the report. Potential options that may be available to you could include requesting the report online, picking one up in person, or having a copy sent to you by mail.
When requesting the report, having relevant details ready can help officers locate the report quickly. This includes the date and approximate time, the accident location, and the officers at the scene.
Do You Have to Pay for a Police Report?
Some law enforcement agencies charge a fee for the report. Others may charge a fee depending upon your requested method of delivery. However, this all varies depending on which agency you’re reaching out to and what their policies entail. Ask about any potential fees beforehand so that you are not caught off guard and are prepared to cover the cost.
DM Injury Law’s Team Can Help
Attorneys at DM Injury Law are dedicated to protecting the rights of victims. We’re a skilled team of legal experts with over a century of combined experience in a variety of personal injury cases. We put in the hard work investigating your accident, putting together a case, and representing you in court if necessary. We allow you to focus on what’s important to you while we fight for justice and compensation on your behalf. Reach out to the team today for a free consultation and get started on the journey to getting your life back on track.