Car accidents happen every day, and drivers might be seriously hurt, or worse. We need to gather as much information as possible about how the accident occurred to build a claim for damages, and we can start by reviewing the police report. Obtaining a copy of the report may be challenging, depending on the circumstances, and your attorney can assist you.
You may obtain a copy of the police report from the police department in charge of your accident case. Some people know exactly which police agency has their report, while others may be less certain. Your attorney can contact the authorities to determine the status of your report. We may request a copy of the report online, by mail, or in person. It can take time before the report is ready, and we might have to wait. The more complex the accident is, the longer the police might take to investigate.
Get a free case review to start your case by calling our Henderson, NV personal injury lawyers at Mitchell Rogers Injury Law at (702) 702-2622.
Where Do I Get Copies of a Police Report for a Car Accident in Henderson, NV?
Where you obtain a copy of the crash report depends on which police department handled the accident.
Online
Many police departments prefer drivers to submit requests for copies of police reports online. This is often easier and faster than submitting a request by mail. The Henderson Police Department allows you to submit your request through an online portal on their website. You may also find a copy of your crash report online if the Nevada State Police handled the case.
In-Person
We can instead go to the police station in person and ask about copies of the report. The police may direct you back to the online portal or request your information to obtain a hard copy of the report.
By Mail
If you cannot obtain a copy of the report online, we can ask the police to mail you a copy. Not everyone has internet access, and this may be a good way to get an official hard copy of the report.
When are Police Reports for Accidents Available?
Typically, the police make reports available in a few weeks after the accident, but this may vary. If your accident involves serious injuries, extensive damage, death, or is otherwise factually complex, the police will likely need more time to investigate.
If it has been a long time since the accident and the police report is still not ready, ask your lawyer for help. They can contact the police directly and ask for more information about the report.
Which Police Department Has My Accident Report?
Getting a copy of the accident report requires that we determine which police department handled the accident. This is obvious in some cases, but less clear in others.
Local Police
In many car accidents in and around Henderson, NV, the local authorities handle the case. The Henderson Police Department might have investigated the accident and written a report on their findings, and our Henderson, NV car accident lawyers can contact them about obtaining a copy.
State Police
If your accident happened on a state or interstate highway around Henderson, the Nevada State Police might have handled the accident. In that case, State Police officers will have investigated and written the report, and we need to contact state authorities about getting a copy.
Why Do I Need a Copy of the Police Report from My Car Accident in Henderson, NV?
Getting a copy of the police report is not necessary to begin building your case, but it may help.
Proof in Insurance Claims
When filing an insurance claim, the insurance company typically wants proof that the accident happened. While photos of the accident scene can help, insurance companies often want to see a copy of the police report. If you cannot present a copy, the insurance company may challenge your claim.
Finding Evidence for a Lawsuit
Police reports are typically inadmissible as evidence in a trial because they violate the rule against hearsay evidence. However, we can use the report as a guide to other evidence that is admissible. We might also use the report during settlement negotiations where the rules of evidence do not apply.
FAQs About Police Accident Reports in Henderson, NV?
Do I Need a Copy of the Police Report for My Car Accident Case?
Whether you need a copy of the report depends on what the report contains. In many cases, the police report contains information pertinent to the plaintiff’s legal claims. If you are unsure what might be in your report, we should get a copy anyway.
What Information is in a Police Report for a Car Accident?
Police reports may contain details from law enforcement’s investigation. General facts about what the police observed may be included, and so may their opinions or conclusions about the accident.
When Are Car Accident Reports Made Available?
Car accident reports from the police may take a few weeks before they are ready. In cases involving more serious injuries, death, or complex facts, the report might take longer, as the police may need more time to investigate.
Can I File a Car Accident Lawsuit Without a Police Report?
You may file a lawsuit even if you do not have a copy of the police report. We may file your case if the police are still preparing the report and get a copy later.
Can I File an Insurance Claim without a Car Accident Report from the Police?
Whether you can file an auto insurance claim without a copy of the police report depends on what the insurance company wants. Some insurance providers demand a copy of the report, while others might be more flexible.
What if I Did Not Report My Car Accident to the Police?
If you never contacted the police to report the accident, there is no police report. In cases of very minor injuries and damage, drivers do not always feel the need to call the police. If the accident was more serious, you might be in legal trouble for failing to contact the police.
Review Your Case with Our Henderson, NV Car Accident Attorneys
Get a free case review to start your case by calling our Boulder City, NV car accident lawyers at Mitchell Rogers Injury Law at (702) 702-2622.