About Car Accident Reports
Car accident reports are usually completed by a police officer when there is an automobile accident. All pertinent information about the vehicle(s), driver(s) and the accident are included on the report. A copy of the report is kept on file at the local courthouse for insurance purposes. The people involved in the accident are entitled to a copy of the report.
In the event of a car accident, the police should be called. Any witnesses of the accident should stay at the scene to give a statement to the police officer. The statement will be included on the car accident report. Police officers usually take statements from the operators of each vehicle as well. If the person(s) operating the vehicle is injured and unable to make a statement, it will be documented on the report in the absence of a statement.
The accident report will list all the people involved in the accident, including the passengers. The police officer will note where each individual was seated when the accident occurred and note if they were wearing a seatbelt. Along with the date and time of the accident, car accident reports also give the location of the accident. The street name(s) and mile marker will be stated along with the direction each vehicle was traveling. Sometimes to show more detail the officer will draw a simple diagram. Other factors, such as road conditions, weather, alcohol and/or substance intoxication are included, too.
Perhaps the most important information on a car accident report is the insurance and licensing information. Police officers have to make sure this information is clearly legible and accurate. The name of insurance company, their telephone number and address, agent, the policy number and the expiration date are all noted. This information is used to file a claim for repairs and medical expenses. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is also documented along with a brief description of the automobile and the damages it had from the accident. The insurance company will need a copy of the accident report before starting the claim process. A copy of the report is usually available from the courthouse in 3 to 5 business days.