Understanding and breaking down a car accident police report helps you define its parts and its role in the insurance claim you file. A car accident report is an official accounting of the details of an accident, including its causes, contributing factors, vehicle damage, and occupant injuries.
A Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can obtain a copy of your report and include it with additional evidence in your case file. Most will review your claim for free and start building a strategy for your financial recovery with no upfront payment.
What Is a Police Report for a Car Accident, and When Is it Required?
An official police report is a collection of details and information related to a car accident. It is mandatory after certain accidents and recommended after any. The report can provide details about the accident that prevent exaggeration or misinformation at a later date.
A police report is required according to Florida law if anyone in either vehicle is injured, either vehicle sustains significant damage, or a fatality occurs. The police officer who arrives at the scene will file this report with the appropriate law enforcement agency.
A Car Accident Police Report Identifies Both Vehicles and Both Drivers
The immediate aftermath of a car crash can leave you injured and confused. If you left the accident scene in an ambulance, you will not have the opportunity to collect evidence or exchange information with the at-fault driver.
Part of what is on a police report for a car accident includes contact details for drivers and passengers in both cars and for both insurance companies. A police report can also help if the driver whose actions caused the accident fled the scene without exchanging the required information.
The Investigating Officer’s Narrative Is an Important Part of a Police Report
A significant benefit of a police report to insurance companies is its objectivity. The police who arrive at the accident scene will describe what they saw in impartial detail, including:
- The position of each vehicle
- The state of each driver
- The date and time of the crash
- The accident scene
It will also note whether either vehicle required towing and describe any readily apparent injuries.
Police-Generated Photos and Videos Help Tell the Story of the Accident
Sometimes, what is in a police report for car accidents can include photos and videos of the following:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Points of impact on each vehicle
- The position of each vehicle
As stated, a car accident police report is mandatory. If one gets filed after your accident, a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can obtain it for you.
Call (954) 633-8270 for a Free Car Accident Claim Review
If you or a loved one seeks compensation after a recent collision, our car accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help. We will break down the car accident police report, collect additional evidence, and deal with the insurance company.
Call our consultation team at (954) 633-8270 at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato to get started now.
