When you’re involved in a car accident in Glendale, AZ, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional distress of the event, it’s easy to feel lost in the process. One of the most important steps you can take after a car accident is to ensure that a police report is filed. This report can play a pivotal role in strengthening your personal injury claim, providing crucial details that can determine the outcome of your case.
A car accident injury lawyer can help you understand how a police report can be used to your advantage when pursuing compensation. In this blog, we’ll explore how police reports impact car accident claims and why they’re essential for building a strong case.
What Is a Police Report?
A police report is a formal document created by law enforcement officers after responding to an accident. It includes a detailed account of the incident, the actions of the parties involved, and any contributing factors. The police report typically includes:
- The parties involved: This includes the names, contact details, and insurance information of everyone involved in the accident.
- A description of the accident: This part of the report explains how the accident occurred, the location, and the time of day.
- Eyewitness statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, their accounts will be included in the report.
- Officer observations: The police officer may document their observations, such as weather conditions, road conditions, or any apparent signs of intoxication or negligence.
- Citations or violations: If the officer issues any tickets or citations for violations, these will be included as well.
Although a police report is not the final word in determining fault, it is a crucial piece of evidence that helps provide an objective account of the accident. A personal injury attorney can use this information to build a stronger case for their client.
How Police Reports Strengthen Car Accident Claims
In a car accident claim, both parties typically present their versions of the events. Insurance companies and the courts need reliable evidence to determine who was at fault. Here’s how police reports strengthen your claim:
1. Establishing Liability
One of the primary functions of a police report is to help establish who was at fault in the accident. Officers often document key pieces of evidence that can reveal the cause of the accident, such as traffic violations, road conditions, or even statements from witnesses. This objective account can serve as a neutral third-party perspective, which is invaluable in cases where both parties dispute the facts.
If, for example, the police report indicates that another driver ran a red light and caused the accident, it provides strong evidence of their liability. This can be pivotal when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
2. Documenting Evidence of Negligence
Negligence plays a significant role in personal injury claims. If the other driver was speeding, under the influence of alcohol, or distracted while driving, these factors may be documented in the police report. For instance, if the police officer notes that the other driver was texting at the time of the accident, it could be a critical piece of evidence in proving negligence.
Additionally, police officers sometimes conduct field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests if they suspect the driver was intoxicated. The results of these tests will be documented in the report and can be used to support your claim.
3. Providing an Accurate Timeline of Events
Police reports provide an accurate, detailed timeline of the accident, which can be crucial in personal injury claims. This timeline can be used to establish the sequence of events leading up to and after the crash. In some cases, accidents occur in busy intersections or in areas where visibility is limited. The police report can help clarify how the accident happened by providing specific details, such as the position of the vehicles, traffic signals, or any obstacles in the area.
Having a reliable timeline from a police report can be used to corroborate your account of the incident, making your version of the events more credible in the eyes of insurance adjusters or a judge.
4. Serving as an Official Record of the Accident
A police report is an official government document that records the details of an accident. This makes it highly credible and difficult to dispute. It can serve as an impartial piece of evidence, especially in cases where the insurance company or the at-fault party tries to downplay their responsibility.
When your car accident attorney presents the police report as part of your case, it provides a reliable foundation for your claim. This can be crucial in cases where there are conflicting statements or where the facts of the case are in dispute.
Why It’s Important to File a Police Report
In many cases, victims of car accidents may be hesitant to call the police, either due to concerns about time, complexity, or the belief that the accident is minor. However, even in cases of minor accidents, it’s important to file a police report. Here’s why:
- Legal Requirement: In many states, including Arizona, it is a legal requirement to report an accident to the police if there are injuries or significant property damage.
- Insurance Purposes: Insurance companies often require a police report to process your claim. Without it, your claim may be delayed or even denied.
- Protects Your Rights: Filing a police report ensures that an official account of the accident is created, which can protect your rights and provide a clear record of the events.
How a Car Accident Injury Lawyer Can Help
A local personal injury lawyer can assist you in obtaining and using the police report in your car accident claim. They will work to gather all the necessary documentation, including the police report, witness statements, medical records, and other evidence to build a strong case for you. They will also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In cases where the other party disputes fault or where the insurance company tries to minimize the compensation, a car accident attorney will use the police report to advocate for your rights and strengthen your case.
Contact a Car Accident Injury Lawyer Today
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Glendale, AZ, and are unsure how to proceed, a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the claims process. Having a reliable law firm by your side can make all the difference when it comes to obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Contact Folger Law Firm today to discuss your case and learn how they can help you with your car accident injury claim. Let a knowledgeable car accident injury lawyer guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
