The law requires you to file police after a vehicle accident. In case the crash was unfortunate enough to block traffic or need immediate medical and ambulance services, police will be dispatched to the scene as soon as you call 911. They will also file a report.
Minor fender benders should be reported as many victims tend to suffer neck and back pain. Some internal injuries might flare up several days after the accident. Having an accurate report means you have a record of exactly what happened and that the police or the law enforcement department has the facts of the crash. Your Spokane car accident attorney may also use the police report as part of evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
What law enforcement wants to know
If you have been involved in a crash, call the police and wait in a safe place. In case someone has been injured, call 911 immediately. Once the police arrive, just state the facts about the incident and don’t take responsibility for the crash. It is recommended to consult with your lawyer before you accept blame even if you already know that you were at fault.
Often, accidents can raise your adrenaline and leave you confused. The law enforcement officers will question different witnesses to establish what happened and who was at fault. The law enforcement officers may ask you the following questions;
- What exactly happened?
- Were you injured?
- How many passengers were in your car and how many individuals were in the other vehicle?
- Are any of the people in your vehicle injured?
- What your name and who is your insurer?
- Did anyone else see what happened immediately before, during, and after the crash?
- Has your vehicle suffered damages?
If the vehicle accident was minor and no report was made at the scene, you can walk to your local police station to file an accident report. It is helpful if you get the other driver’s identity information, contact details, and their license plate number. You should also snap photographs of the accident scene using your camera or even cell phone. Of course, it is recommended to get collect these pieces of evidence, but filing a report at the station means that you have to document the accident scene yourself.
Some of the reasons the police may not come at the scene immediately may include, no immediate injuries reported, the vehicle damage is minor, or there are other priority events or accidents to attend to.
Is the police report important?
Well, during the stress and shock of the crash, you might not notice that you suffered an injury or your vehicle is damaged. Once you get home, you might start experiencing pain or realize that your vehicle is damaged. Having the right police report can preserve the facts about the accident and offers you the other driver’s contact details. The report can also be helpful if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.