Being involved in a car accident means a myriad of details to manage and evidence to gather. One document you need to obtain is the police accident report. Written by the investigating officer, this report contains the officer’s observations, notes, and sometimes opinions about fault. It can be an important document should you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Investigating officer documenting the scene for the police car accident report.
The police accident report (also known as a crash report) offers a detailed written summary of the incident. It contains facts related to the accident. The investigating officer gathers this information by examining the scene, inspecting the vehicles, speaking with drivers and witnesses, taking measurements, and photographing the site. The report typically includes:
Having this detailed documentation is invaluable when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
You must report a car accident if it:
You can request a report in person, through the mail, or online. Official reports must be requested in writing; however, if you are pursuing a personal injury claim, your attorney can take care of getting the report for you.
Have you been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in which you suffered serious injuries? The experienced team at Nash & Franciskato is here to help. We have built a strong track record of success, helping victims secure the compensation they deserve.
Here is what we offer:
Personalized, compassionate advocacy for you and your family.
Call us at (877) 284-6600. Our dedicated team will review your case and provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published April 16, 2021. It was reviewed on July 5, 2023, and again on March 31, 2025, and updated for content and accuracy.
