Most people assume they can drive away from a minor car accident without filing a police report. That’s not always the case. In the future, if you were to seek compensation for injuries or property damage, you wouldn’t have the police report to back up your claims. Your claim would then be weakened.
Additionally, if you plan to hire a personal injury attorney (as you should), the lawyer will require a copy of the police report. It’s smart and safe to call the police, even if the accident is a minor fender-bender. You never know if the other driver is going to file a lawsuit or call the police after you leave.
The Importance of a Police Report in North Texas
After a car accident, having accurate documentation of the incident can save your skin. As far as evidence goes, there is nothing more concrete than an official police report. It is an unbiased view of the incident and evidence against whoever is at fault for the incident. Both your North Texas attorney and the insurance company will require a copy of the report.
Information Included in a Police Report
The authorities do not take sides when filing the report. Their objective report includes:
- The precise location of the accident.
- The date and time of the accident.
- Any damage to the vehicles and other property resulting from the accident.
- Injuries sustained by drivers, passengers, and pedestrians
- Statement and information from witnesses of the accident.
- Environmental information from the accident.
If you are not at fault for the automobile accident, the police report will indicate your blamelessness. You can then use the report as evidence against the other driver to guarantee compensation for your pain and suffering, medical bills, and/or lost earnings.
Even if you are the driver at fault in the accident, you’ll want your own copy of the police report. If the other driver attempts to make a false claim or fake portions of the accident, you’ll have proof of the true extent of your involvement.
Filing a Police Report in Texas
Let’s go over how one properly files a police report after an accident in North Texas. Here are the steps to ensure your incident is reported properly:
- Call the police immediately after the accident while still at the scene.
- Discuss the details of the accident with the responding officer and answer any questions they may have at the time.
- Ensure you receive a copy of the accident report from the police. Once the report is filed, usually within 24 hours, you can request to have a copy sent to your insurance provider.
If you have been involved in a recent automobile accident, hire an experienced personal injury attorney to take on your case. You can never have too much protection in a situation like this. Call The Durham Firm at (214) 222-4000!
