If you have been involved in a car accident and are pursuing a personal injury claim, one document can greatly influence the outcome of your case, the police report. While it is not the only piece of evidence used in a lawsuit, it plays a big role in determining fault, supporting your version of events, and providing an official record of the incident. Hurt Wreck will explain what a police report includes, how it can impact your auto accident lawsuit, and how your attorney may use it to strengthen your claim.
What is a Police Report?
A police report is an official document prepared by the responding law enforcement officer at the scene of an accident. It provides a detailed account of:
• The parties involved
• The time, date, and location of the crash
• Witness statements
• Physical evidence (vehicle damage or skid marks)
• Road and weather conditions
• Any traffic citations issued
• The officer’s preliminary assessment of fault
This report becomes an important piece of evidence in personal injury claims, especially when liability is disputed.
Why Police Reports Matter in Personal Injury Lawsuits
While a police report is generally not admissible in court as direct evidence because it’s considered hearsay, it is still incredibly valuable during settlement negotiations and pre-trial proceedings. Here are some of the advantages of a police report.
Provides an Objective Third-Party Account: Unlike statements from drivers involved in the crash who may be biased, a police officer is seen as a neutral authority figure. Their report often carries weight with insurance adjusters and attorneys.
Helps Establish Liability: If the officer cites one driver for a traffic violation, it can strongly support your claim that the other party was at fault.
Corroborates Your Story: If your version of the accident matches the police report, it lends credibility to your claim. Conversely, if your account contradicts the report, it may weaken your case so reviewing the report early is crucial.
Identifies Witnesses: Police reports often list the names and contact info of any eyewitnesses. These individuals can provide powerful testimony in support of your case if needed.
Useful in Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies rely heavily on police reports to determine claim outcomes. A report indicating the other driver was at fault can lead to a quicker and more favorable settlement for you.
What if the Police Report is Inaccurate
Police officers are human and they can make mistakes. If the report contains incorrect or incomplete information, you have the right to:
• Request a correction with supporting evidence.
• Submit your own statement or clarification to be added to the report.
• Dispute the findings during the legal process.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help challenge any discrepancies and ensure the truth is presented clearly.
How to Get a Copy of Your Police Report
In most cases, you can obtain a copy by:
• Contacting the local police department or highway patrol agency that responded to the scene.
• Requesting it online through the department’s website, if available.
• Asking your attorney to obtain it for you.
There may be a small fee, and it can take a few days to a few weeks depending on the jurisdiction.
Personal Injury Attorneys in DeSoto & Lancaster, TX (Just Minutes from Glenn Heights, Duncanville, Red Oak, Wilmer, Hutchins, Ovilla & Ferris, Texas)
Police reports are one of the most important documents in the early stages of any auto accident claim. They offer a third-party narrative of what happened, support your case against the at-fault driver, and can tip the scales in settlement negotiations. However, they are just one part of the broader legal process. To ensure your rights are protected and your case is built on solid ground, it’s smart to work with a skilled personal injury lawyer who knows how to use every piece of evidence to your advantage.
We’ll review your police report, gather additional evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Hurt Wreck today!
