Why Getting a Police Report Is Essential After a Car Accident
There are several million vehicle crashes that occur in the United States each year. In the aftermath of one of these accidents, it is important to know what to do. One such step is contacting the police after the crash, so that they may create a report of the incident. You will want a copy of that report for when you file your personal injury claim.
What goes into the police report?
Police are required to include various details in their report of the crash. Some of this information includes the location and time of the crash, damage incurred by the vehicles involved, names and identifying information of the people involved, and the visible injuries (if any) sustained by drivers, passengers, and/or pedestrians. It may include a description of the weather or roadway, a “drawing” of the incident (usually templated) as well as any citations issued. The report should also include bystander witnesses.
How the police report can impact allegations of fault
Police reports often contain notes or opinions of the responding officer. Sometimes these notes can help your claim, but not always. After all, even police officers can make mistakes or misconstrue what happened. This is why it is important that you do not admit fault or apologize for anything, to the police or to the other party. This would be noted in the report, which can make it harder to prove you were not at fault during negotiations or trial.
Even if you believe (or know) you are at fault for the crash, it is still important to contact the police to make a report about the car accident. If you leave the scene of the crash before the police arrive, or fail to call them, the other party might exaggerate his or her injuries, or create a different story about what really happened. Further, fleeing the scene of an accident in Maryland could land you in legal hot water.
If another driver has caused you injuries in a car accident, you have the right to pursue financial compensation for your losses. This includes losses for lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Our experienced Maryland car crash attorneys at Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. are here to fight on your behalf for the financial recovery you deserve. To setup up a free consultation about your case, give us a call today at 410.730.7737 or use our contact form to leave us a message.
Bruce Plaxen was honored as the 2009 Maryland Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Maryland Association for Justice. For more information on his legal background, please visit his attorney bio.