How To Obtain A Copy Of Your Police Accident Report

Suppose you were involved in a car crash and need to make an insurance claim or file a lawsuit. In that case, the Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s top rated attorneys recommend obtaining a copy of the corresponding police report, also referred to as a police accident report. You can do this by going to the responding officer’s precinct and asking for it in person. The police department should be located in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred. However, you may be able to save yourself a trip by calling in advance to confirm. A copy of the police report will usually be provided for free. While it may be available immediately, sometimes it can take up to 30 days.   

You can also request a copy online if you cannot go in person. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows online requests for police reports. For electronically filed police reports, you should allow at least 14 days from the date of the accident. The DMV maintains accident reports for four years from the date of the incident. Although reports involving accidents where no one suffered injury or property damage exceeding $1,000 are not available online, you can obtain one by mailing in a Request for Copy of Accident Report (MV-198C).

What Will I Need To Retrieve My Police Report? 

Should you request your police report online, you will be asked your name, street address, email, and the reason for the request. As mentioned above, you will need to know which police department filed your report. Additionally, you may be asked for further information, such as an incident number from the responding officers, to identify the report. You will need to know the date and county where the accident occurred. You will then see all available accident report results based on the information that you provided. You can select a DMV case number and order your report from there.

Essential Details That Accident Reports Can Help Confirm 

Before leaving the scene of an accident, always contact the police and ask them to file an accident report. This vital record could substantiate your claims by providing the following information:

1. Proof that the accident occurred;
2. The approximate time and date that the crash happened;
3. The names, contact details, and insurance carriers of all the parties involved;
4. Critical observations, such as the weather, obstructions, and adverse road conditions; 
5. Statements from the drivers, passengers, and witnesses;
6. Known injuries; 
7. The extent of the damage to the vehicles and other property; 
8. A diagram of the vehicles, including their path and point of impact; 
9. If any of the motorists were cited for traffic violations; and
10. Conclusions regarding how or why the collision happened.

The report can also aid your attorney’s accident investigation by pointing to crucial evidence and substantiating liability claims.

Do You Need Help Getting A Police Report After Your Accident in Buffalo, New York?

If you have been hurt by another’s negligence and need to consult a highly experienced personal injury lawyer, please get in touch with the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. today! Learn about your legal rights during our complimentary, no-obligation consultation and case assessment. Our remarkable team is available twenty-four-seven by dialing 716-839-3939 or completing the online consultation form.