How To Read a Police Report
If you suffered injuries in a car accident because of another driver’s negligence, you want to gather as much evidence as possible to support your compensation claim. One of the most crucial pieces of evidence to collect after a car accident is a copy of the police report pertaining to your accident. A police report contains details that can be vital in your claim. Understanding how to read and interpret a police report can be crucial for car accident claimants.
What Is an Accident Report?
After a car accident, the police usually conduct a preliminary investigation at the accident scene. The officer gathers information from all involved parties and documents the details of the accident. An accident report typically contains statements from those involved, witness statements, and the officer’s observations and opinions about how the accident happened. This official document serves as an essential record for any follow-up investigations related to the accident and any compensation claim. The police report is vital for understanding how the accident happened, determining fault, and assessing damages.
Reading the Accident Report
Understanding how to read the police report pertaining to your car accident is vital. This report contains crucial information that could influence the outcome of your compensation claim. Below is a guide on how to read an accident report;
- Look for the Basics
Most accident reports begin with a section at the top with basic details, such as the date and time of the collision, city/town, street or road where the accident happened, and crash report number. Take time to understand this basic information and verify if it is accurate. Ensure the details in this section correspond to the specifics of your accident.
- Look for Driver Details
Details about the other driver will be in the accident report. The following is some of the information about the other driver you should look for;
- Names
- Address
- Contact information
- Vehicle details, such as license plate number, color, make, and model of the car
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
If there are more than two drivers, the report should include information about each one of them.
- Examine Details of Other Parties
The accident report will provide information about other parties, including passengers, pedestrians, and witnesses. In this section, you will likely find the names and contact information of the other parties, their roles in the accident, and any statements they provided. Reviewing this information is vital for reaching out to witnesses, verifying their statements, and understanding the full context of your accident.
- Read the Officer’s Description of the Accident
One of the most vital sections of a police report is the officer’s description of the accident. This part may detail the events leading up to the accident, such as each driver’s actions. It may also include a diagram showing the drivers’ direction of travel and movements made before and after the accident.
- Check for Citations
Check if the other driver was cited. If a traffic citation was issued because of, for example, speeding or running a red light, it can help establish liability.
- Assess the Officer’s Opinion of Fault
The accident report may not state fault directly, but an officer’s observations and assessments may hint at their opinion of fault. While an officer’s opinion is not the final word, it may provide a basis for investigations.
Contact Us for Legal Help
For legal help, contact our London and Southeast Kentucky auto accident attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm.
