It is always best to call the police after a car accident, even one you feel is minor. This is because a police report is an official document that can be beneficial when filing a claim, and you may not know whether anyone is injured. If you feel the other driver is at fault for the accident or committed a traffic violation that caused the accident, you should call the police. Having an officer on hand is helpful, as they can act as an impartial third party.
What Is Contained in a Car Accident Police Report?
When police are called to the scene of an accident, they will document what they find there. This includes any physical evidence, such as tire track, vehicle damage, or property damage, and descriptions of any injuries from the accident. The report will also include statements taken from people who witnessed the accident. If any traffic citations were issued at the scene, that information will be in the report as well.
Having all this evidence at hand makes the insurance claims process easier and can help support your claim should you choose to bring a suit against a negligent driver. After calling the police, you can gather evidence on your own by taking photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle and property damage, marks on the road, and weather conditions. Get the contact information from any eyewitnesses, and ask them to write down their accounts of what they saw.
Seek Medical Care After a Car Accident
After any car accident, always seek medical care, even if you think you only have minor injuries. Let a medical professional determine if you have hidden accident injuries, like a concussion. Many injuries are not readily apparent at the time of the accident. Adrenaline in the body from the experience can mask pain and other symptoms that would otherwise make you aware of an injury. After a medical examination, you will have official documentation of your injuries from the accident to support your claim.
Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Provide Experienced Legal Counsel to Accident Survivors
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another party, we can help. Our Delaware car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC can investigate the crash and fight to make sure the negligent party is held accountable. Contact us online or call us at 302-888-1221 for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, Newark, and Middletown.