After the shock of a car accident subsides and injuries have been treated, victims should focus on documentation for insurance and legal claims. A critical piece of evidence is the accident report, a detailed record created by law enforcement that captures the events surrounding the crash.
This report contains vital information and observations by the responding police officer at a crash scene. It’s often required to file a claim and can help prove who is at fault for an accident. However, you need to know what to look for to use it effectively.
Work with our experienced Michigan personal injury lawyers at Fieger Law to understand your accident report and how to use it to help secure the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Accident Reports
Accident reports serve as official records of traffic incidents, providing critical information for determining fault and processing insurance claims. Police reports do the following in traffic collision cases:
- Document the accident, including the date, time, location, and weather conditions.
- Identify all parties involved in the incident.
- Describe the damages to vehicles and injuries reported.
- Help determine fault through officer observations or citations issued.
- Validate insurance claims and prevent fraudulent cases.
Understanding the significance of your accident report is the first step in protecting your rights. Reach out to our team at Fieger Law for assistance obtaining your report or interpreting the information it includes.
What to Look for in a Crash Report?
Accident reports often include essential details that can strengthen your insurance claim and help you secure a fair settlement. After a collision, obtain a copy of your report and review it carefully to verify its accuracy and understand its contents. Here’s what to pay attention to:
| Element | Description | What to Look For |
| Accident Information | Date, time, and location of the crash. | Verify the accuracy of the date, time, and location. |
| Driver Information | Names, addresses, and driver’s licenses of all involved drivers. | Ensure your information is correct, including any errors in spelling or license numbers. |
| Vehicle Information | Make, model, and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved. | Confirm the details of your vehicle and look for errors in the descriptions of other vehicles. |
| Narrative of the Accident | Officer’s account of the events leading up to and including the crash. | Carefully review the officer’s description of the accident. Look for inconsistencies with your recollection or witness accounts. |
| Diagram of the Accident Scene | A visual representation of the crash scene, including vehicle positions, traffic signals, and road markings. | Pay close attention to the diagram’s accuracy, especially the positioning of vehicles and relevant road features. |
| Witness Statements | Details provided by any witnesses to the accident. | Review witness statements for accuracy and completeness. |
| Injuries | Descriptions of injuries sustained in the accident | Verify that the report accurately reflects the extent of your injuries. |
| Citations | Any traffic citations issued as a result of the accident. | Confirm the accuracy of any citations listed, such as speeding or reckless driving. |
If you were hurt in a car accident, speak with our team today about your case. Our experienced attorneys can help you review the police report, identify useful facts for your case, and address any inaccuracies that could harm your claim.
What To Do If You Find Discrepancies
Finding errors in your accident report can be worrisome, but you can take steps to correct these issues and safeguard your interests. Here’s what to do to amend the report:
- Note Any Discrepancies: With your attorney, make a detailed list of errors or inaccuracies you find in the report.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Contact the officer or department that issued the report to discuss inaccuracies and ask for a correction. Follow their process for amendment, which could include a formal request in writing, providing additional evidence or documentation, or attending a meeting to review the report.
- Provide Documentation: Submit supporting documents such as photos, witness statements, or your account of the incident to substantiate your request for corrections.
- Follow Up Regularly: Keep in touch with the law enforcement agency until the corrections are made to ensure an accurate report.
- Inform Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the discrepancies and the steps you’re taking to correct the report, as this may affect your claim.
- Obtain a Revised Copy: Once corrections are made, request an updated copy of the report for your records. Verify that all changes are correctly reflected and submit the new report to the insurer.
Get Skilled Legal Representation With Fieger Law
Remember, while accident reports are important, they are not the final word in determining fault or liability. A qualified attorney from Fieger Law can help you gather evidence, such as witness statements and reconstructionist reports, to help you build a strong case.
If you’re facing challenges with your accident report, the skilled car accident attorneys at Fieger Law can help you understand the process and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free case review. We can discuss your concerns and help you get financial support for your injuries.
