Do I Need a Police Report After an Auto Accident?

Auto accidents, both minor and major, are stressful and shocking events. Oftentimes, the police, paramedics, and fire department (if needed) are called by someone not involved in the accident as the involved parties are still processing what happened. It isn’t until after the accident, sometimes even days or weeks, does a person think back on the event and whether or not they took the correct steps to proceed with a claim.

A common question to the auto accident attorneys at McCraw Law Group from parties involved in an auto accident is, “Do I need a police report?” We go into details about this important question in today’s blog post.

Do I need a police report?

The short answer is: it depends.  A police report after an auto accident that causes serious injuries or damages will almost always be filled out, but they may not be seen as necessary for some minor accidents. When it comes to filing a claim for injuries in an accident, they are very useful to your claim. They often include important information, such as:

• Other parties involved in the wreck
• Witness information
• Insurance coverages
• Vehicle information, such as mechanical failures

All of this information, if provided, will help your attorney determine how to proceed with the claim to receive compensation.

What if no one is injured?

In minor auto accidents where no one appears to be injured, a police report after an auto accident may not be filled out. Instead, officers will sometimes fill out a “blue report” which is a self-report of information about the accident. The police report is more detailed and has a fuller picture, but a blue report works as well.

Can I file a claim without a police report or blue report?

While it is very helpful to have a police report after an auto accident, it is not necessary. The personal injury accident lawyers at McCraw Law Group have the knowledge and experience to assist any client in their personal injury claim, even those without a police report. There are other ways we can get the information we need to proceed with your claim and help you receive compensation after an accident.

McCraw Law Group has represented injury and accident victims for over 20 years. We are able to assist you as soon as you are ready to seek compensation for damages and injuries. Representing both injury and insurance claims, our attorneys take compelling legal action and deal with auto insurance companies for you. Contact us today for a free consultation at 972-854-7900.