Car accidents are rising at a very fast pace, and if you end up in one, the experience can be stressful. Even if there is no injury involved, getting your car damaged will make the experience overwhelming. You can be confused and unsure of the next step that is to be taken.
It can be very helpful to know how you need to respond to the aftermath of an accident. First, you need to get yourself together and face the situation at hand calmly. Certain steps should be taken as soon as possible. One of the most important steps is to get a police report. The complexities of legal procedures can be difficult to navigate through.
If you face a similar situation, hiring a lawyer can ease your problem. Contact a professional lawyer like the experts at Bruce Law, LLC.
Understanding a Police Report
A police report in a car accident is an official report that is made by the law enforcement authority to list the details of an accident and have a record of the accident.
After contacting the local county, A police officer is sent to the scene to investigate the accident and get additional information from the parties involved and any eyewitnesses.
All the information is gathered, and then an official police report is prepared.
When you should file a police report
A police report is usually filled when there are injuries, death, or property damage involved, but getting a police report for minor accidents is highly advised as making a record of the accident helps you have critical evidence for claiming your insurance or even when facing any legal proceeding related to the accident.
Why is it mandatory to get a police report
Police report is a must in New Jersey if the damage or loss is estimated to be over $500. If one or both parties fail to do so, they can land in trouble of getting their license canceled and getting a fine ranging from $30 to $100.
Importance of Police report in court.
Car accidents sometimes escalate to the point where one of the parties files a lawsuit, In such a situation, a police report becomes very important. It may not be directly considered as evidence. However, the information stated in the police report can be of high value.
In such a scenario, the police in charge who made the report can be called to the court to discuss the details and his observation on the case. The testimony can be helpful in either supporting the claim of the plaintiff or putting their claim in doubt.
Also, it can help in negotiating between the parties involved before the case is sent for trial. If the report is in favor of one party, then the settlement can be negotiated between both parties. Lack of a police report may lead to difficulty in getting a settlement and the case going to court.
Issues and Limitations of a police report.
Getting a police report is important in a car accident but there are certain issues and limitations you might face. Knowing them can help you take steps that are in your best interest.
1. Police reports are not always correct.
You need to understand that a police report can be inaccurate. The police officer can miss out on important details, which may make things hard for you.
2. Police reports can be subjective.
As a human being, the conclusion formed by the police officer while investigating the scene can be influenced by his interpretation of the incident, which can sometimes be inaccurate.
3. Police Reports can be amended.
Sometimes, the police report is amended based on any factual error that is found related to the events of the accident or any new information, such as witness statements, photos, or videos, which provide a clearer picture of what happened.
Secure your future today!
Filing a police report can significantly determine the outcome of your case. The police can gather crucial pieces of evidence which will help you build a strong case. If you have been involved in a car crash, make sure to call the police and file a report immediately.
