If you were in a car crash, chances are you need to file a claim with your insurance company. Depending on the situation, your insurance company might ask for the police report. Whenever a police officer is called to the scene of a car crash, the officer fills out a report based on the information they gather at the scene. This usually involves statements the drivers gave at the scene, witness accounts, drivers licenses, and insurance information. Getting a copy of your report is one of the most important things when it comes to proving your case. Your accident report is the official documentation that shows you were in a car crash.
Without it, it can be difficult to prove anything happened, and even more difficult proving that someone else caused the accident. Below we’ll give you some information to help you get your copy. It is important that you get a copy of the accident report from the police. You will need this document to file an insurance claim. It’s also an essential report for filing a legal claim to get the financial compensation you’re entitled to.
Crash Investigations and Determining Fault
When an officer responds to the scene of a crash, he or she will start collecting information for the report. This normally includes the facts of the crash such as time, location, and how the crash occurred, based on the evidence the officer recovered. Once the officer is satisfied with the information they have collected, they will submit their report. Sometimes, the report will mention who the officer thinks is at fault, based on their professional opinion. However, most reports do not place liability on anyone. This is because the fault is determined by insurance companies. More specifically, the insurance companies will each hire an adjuster, who will oversee and conduct their own investigation.
Insurance companies then determine fault, and the percentage of liability based on the legal definition of negligence in that state. Texas courts rely on a legal rule known as modified comparative negligence, which may limit a driver’s ability to file a claim through the other party’s insurance company after a car accident. Under this rule, you can typically only recoup your losses if you’re found to be less than 51 percent at fault for the accident.
Getting your police report
Get the business card or contact info of the responding officer. Also, ask when you can expect the accident report to be ready. The office should be able to give you a rough estimate of when it will be ready. Around that time, you can request a copy of the report.
Sometimes, you can get the report online. If there is a website on the business card given to you, be sure to check it. You might be able to simply download the report, and print it yourself.
If you’re not able to reach the officer, then a receptionist at the main desk at the police department may be able to help, or you can call the local courthouse and speak to the clerk. If you still can’t seem to get any answers, go to your local DMV. They will be able to tell you how you can get a copy of your report.
Call a San Antonio Accident Lawyer
Have you or a loved one been in a serious car crash and suffered injuries? If so, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney in San Antonio. Villarreal and Begum is a local firm that will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. We serve clients all across Texas with offices in San Antonio, McAllen, and Laredo. We are available day and night to take your calls. Call or contact us via our website. The Law Guns will fight for you.
The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS dedicates their time and effort towards helping people in Texas find justice for personal negligence encountered while living their normal, everyday lives.