If you’ve been in a car accident, you may need to get a copy of the car accident report for insurance purposes, to make a claim for damages, or for your own personal records.
Here’s how to get a copy of a car accident report.
Getting in touch with law enforcement
Initially, you will want to get in contact with the police department or law enforcement agency that responded to the accident. If the accident occurred within a city, you’ll need to contact the city police department.
If it occurred on a state or federal highway, you’ll need to contact the state highway patrol. Additionally, you will need to ask for a copy of the car accident report.
You’ll need to provide some basic information, such as the date of the accident, the location of the accident, and the names of the people involved. Pay any applicable fees.
Most police departments charge a fee for a copy of the accident report. The fee is usually around $10-$20, but it can vary depending on the location.
Wait for the report to arrive. The police department will typically mail the report to you within a few weeks.
If you need the report more urgently, you may be able to pick it up in person at the police department.
Did you know?
Knowing how to get a car accident report is only one part of the process. We know that the complex process of filing a claim can be overwhelming. Having a personal injury attorney can help take the pressure off of filing a claim.
Check for accuracy
Check the report for accuracy. Once you receive the accident report, make sure that all the information is correct. If you notice any mistakes, you’ll need to contact the police department and ask them to make the necessary corrections.
Keep the report for your records. It’s a good idea to keep a copy of the accident report in a safe place, such as a file folder or a digital storage device. You may need to reference it in the future for insurance or legal purposes.
Did you know?
Pepper & Odom offers free consultations and legal advice to those who are trying to file a personal injury claim. Having a personal injury attorney that focuses on these types of cases can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Things to keep in mind
There are a few other things you should keep in mind when getting a car accident report:
If you don’t have the necessary information to request the report, you may be able to obtain it through a public records request.
If you’re unable to obtain the report directly from the police department, you may be able to get a copy from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, or if the other driver was uninsured, you may need to file a report with your insurance company.
If you suffered an injury in the accident and you’re planning to file a personal injury claim, you may need to provide the accident report to your lawyer.
Overall, getting a copy of a car accident report is a relatively simple process. Just remember to gather the necessary information, pay any applicable fees, and wait for the report to arrive.
If you have any issues or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the police department or the DMV for assistance. Fore more details on Mississippi and Alabama car accident reports, you can visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s website or the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s website.
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