Why File a Police Report After a Car Crash?

 Posted on October 06, 2021 in Car Accidents

After a car accident, it can be hard to think clearly. You might be in shock and have trouble remembering what you need to do between moving your car off the road, making sure everyone is okay, and trying to get insurance information from the other driver. One step should never be skipped - filing a police report. In Texas, drivers involved in an accident are required to report the crash to police if someone is injured, or if there is more than $1,000 in property damage. Beyond that, it is a good idea for preserving your claim should you later decide to seek compensation. If you have been hurt in a car crash, calling an attorney soon after the accident should also be a priority.

How Can a Police Report Help?

Besides keeping you out of legal trouble for failing to report an accident, there are a few reasons you should always file a police report after a car crash. A police report is sometimes the single most important piece of evidence in car crash litigation. Even if you do not think you will want to pursue compensation, it is important to have the police take a report anyway. Here is why:

• Neutral Perspective - Two drivers involved in an accident often tell wildly different stories about how the accident happened when questioned. The police can serve as a neutral third party who will document what they think happened during the wreck, so it will be harder for the other driver to push their version of events later.
• Preserving Evidence - Especially in more serious crashes, police may be able to document evidence from the scene of the crash that could help your case later.
• Criminal Matters - If the other driver was DUI, driving recklessly, or committing another crime behind the wheel, police may arrest or ticket him. This can help you prove that the other driver was negligent in causing the wreck.
• Weight of Evidence - Statements made by police officers are frequently considered more trustworthy than statements made by other bystanders or involved parties. Insurance companies may take the word of a police officer with little question.

Call a Dallas County Car Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a car accident, file a police report - then call an attorney. Jerry D. Andrews is experienced in helping car crash victims pursue compensation. Our Dallas car crash lawyers will fight for you to receive all the compensation you may be entitled to after an accident. Call 214-221-5800 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/tn/htm/tn.550.htm