Tips for Filing an Accident Report with the Police in Rhode Island

Immediately after a car accident, it is essential to file an accident report with the police. You should do this even if you are not yet sure whether you’ve sustained serious injuries and even if you are not yet clear on whether or not your vehicle has sustained serious damage.

Why Should I File A Police Report After A Car Accident?

There are several different additional reasons for filing a police report even in the event that the accident seems to be minor. This is because you may not notice all of the damage your car has sustained immediately. The other party could make false claims about the accident later. It’s important to have a written record of what happened. The other party may admit fault to you in the immediate aftermath of the accident but change his or her mind after the fact. It is also a good idea because injured parties might not be aware of their health issues until a few days or weeks later. In any case, contact the police as soon as an accident happens.

Document Everything You Can After An Accident

A police report is also the critical first step for facilitating the claims process with your car insurance company meaning that you may be paid out more quickly. Accident details like fault may be more easily determined directly from the report. In the event that you move into a personal injury claim for damages in Rhode Island, you should also have a police report as part of your evidence. There are several different things that need to be documented in your police report. These include:

• Injuries that your passengers or you sustained
• Damages to your vehicle
• Names of any witnesses and contact information
• The other driver’s insurance details and name
• A description of what happened in the accident
• The number of passengers in the other driver’s car

A law enforcement officer will take down your details in the police report and then submit it to their department. The officer may also issue tickets to one or both drivers depending on the accident scene itself. Being prepared to file a police report can help you not just immediately after the accident but it can also prove important if you eventually have personal injury claim in Rhode Island. Get help from an attorney who understands how these cases work and what you need to prepare for a case.

After An Accident, Talk To An Injury Lawyer For Free Before You Sign Anything

While a police report is a very crucial step, do NOT sign anything from an insurance adjuster before discussing that document with an experienced Rhode Island injury lawyer – an attorney with intimate knowledge of Rhode Island traffic laws and a track record of winning. Contact David Tapalian for a free consultation to get started today, make an informed decision moving forward, and put our experience to work for you.