Why should I get a copy of my car accident report after a crash?
If you were involved in a car wreck, the official police report can have a substantial impact on your claim. When the police arrived at the scene of the crash, they documented the details from the crash scene and determined how the crash occurred. They later put together an official car accident report. It's important that you get a copy of this report when pursuing a car accident claim. That's because the information on your report can open the door for a more in-depth investigation and provide evidence that an experienced attorney can use to help you build a strong case.
The other driver's behavior at the crash scene was likely documented. For example, the other driver may have admitted fault. Or, they may have been noticeably intoxicated or behaving aggressively. The other driver's insurance company may still try to shift the blame or downplay the extent of your injuries. They can also take advantage of any mistakes made on your report. That's why it's important that you get a copy of your official car accident report and thoroughly review it. Then, speak to an experienced car accident attorney at Recht Law Offices. We can help you correct any errors on your car accident report and help you recover damages accrued from your crash.
How can I obtain my official car accident report?
The attorneys at Recht Law Offices serve injured motorists in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Our legal team can obtain a copy of your official car accident report for you. If you choose to get a copy on your own, however, here's where you can find it:
- West Virginia - You will need to fill out a request form with the West Virginia State Police and pay a fee of $20.
- Ohio - Car accident reports can take up to six weeks to become available. You can obtain a copy from the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
- Pennsylvania - Car accident reports are available within 15 days from the date of the crash. You can get a copy from the Pennsylvania State Police for a fee of $22.
What will I find on my report?
The official car accident report in each state will contain a different number of pages. For example, West Virginia and Pennsylvania reports are four pages. In Ohio, it's six pages, but they all universally contain critical information pertaining to your crash, including:
- Basic information - This includes the date, time and location of the crash.
- The type of crash and how it occurred.
- The contributing factors, such as weather or road conditions.
- Causes such as drunk driving, speeding, distracted driving or drowsy driving.
- Driver, passenger and vehicle information.
- If the crash resulted in an injury, death or property damage.
- Commercial carrier information (for truck and bus accidents).
- A written narrative describing how the crash occurred.
- An illustrated diagram showing how the crash occurred.
- Statements made by drivers involved and witnesses.
Why does my car accident report matter?
Without enough evidence, it's your word against the other driver's word. Your official car accident report matters because it is a building block to your claim. The information on your report can be cross-referenced with physical evidence from the crash scene, witness statements, video footage and other evidence the car accident attorneys at Recht Law Offices can gather.
We'll use this evidence to help you recover every dollar you're entitled to in damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, non-economic damages (pain and suffering) and other damages accrued from your crash. We'll accurately tally up your losses and fight for the compensation you deserve. To get started, contact our firm online and set up your free case evaluation.