What Happens After You Car Accident?
Following a non-serious car crash, you may wonder if it’s necessary to reach out to law enforcement. If the fault of the accident lies with the other driver, they may try to convince you to reach an agreement privately instead of calling the police. However, a police report is essential to protect your rights and best interests. Here’s what you need to know about post-accident police reports.
How Important Is Filing a Police Report After a Car Accident?
If you wish to obtain compensation from the driver who was at fault for the accident, you’ll need to file a police report. You don’t necessarily have to file a lawsuit if you file a report with law enforcement. However, if you want to sue later, you’ll face more obstacles than if you had a police report to help prove your case. A police report is required for collisions that involved a hit and run or a driver who was uninsured.
What Does a Police Report Typically Say?
When you file a police report, it should include important details about the accident, such as information about the scene, vehicles, witnesses, and more. Your police report should have data on:
- Where and when the collision occurred
- How to contact each of the drivers involved
- How to contact any witnesses who may have seen what happened
- What the vehicles involved looked like
- What the weather and road conditions were like
- What happened just before the accident, during, and immediately after
How You Can File a Post-Collision Police Report
After an accident, it’s best to contact the police before you and anyone else involved leave the scene. When the officer responds to the call, they will automatically generate a report, although this often takes quite a bit of time to complete. If you weren’t able to contact the police at the scene of the accident, go down to the police station to make a report in personl. The longer you wait to call law enforcement, the more difficult it can make your lawsuit.
Should You Call a New Jersey Accident Attorney?
If you were injured in a car accident, or the victim was someone you love, it’s crucial that you get legal help right away. First, contact the police. Then, you should reach out to a seasoned personal injury attorney who can help you navigate filing a lawsuit for compensation to cover your expenses after the accident. Call Hubert Criminal Defense and Injury Law at 856-384-6553.