How Police Reports Influence Pottsville Car Accident Claims
Any car accident involving more than $500 of damage, which means just about every car accident, must be reported. As a result, a police report is generated. Failing to call the authorities can negatively affect your case.
While your police report is not definitive about how your case will be resolved, it will play an important role. If another driver’s negligence has injured you, it is time to consult with an experienced Pottsville car accident attorney at Fanelli, Evans, & Patel.
The Information Included in Pottsville Police Reports
Police reports address key details that can help flesh out how related car accidents happened. The basics include the date, time, and location of the accident. Additional elements can extend to all the following:
- Eyewitness statements that may afford valuable information about the mechanics of the accident
- The officer’s initial observations in relation to the accident
- Each party’s name and driver’s license number, as well as insurance and contact information
The amount of detail included in the police report can vary from case to case, but those that are included are very likely to inform the resulting car accident claim. Ultimately, car accident claims in Pennsylvania must be backed up by evidence, but police reports can help build stronger claims.
Police Reports Can Help Establish Fault
Police reports often help establish fault by cataloging important information.
Skid Marks
Skid marks left on the road after an accident often indicate how fast the involved parties were driving. They can also indicate the directions motorists were heading and whether they swerved to avoid the crash.
Damage to the Vehicles Involved
Detailed information about damage to each involved vehicle in a police report can go a long way toward reconstructing an accident. Primary matters include the severity of the crash and the points of impact.
The Weather Conditions
The officer’s notes on the weather conditions at the time of the accident can factor into the outcome of the claim. For example, navigating adverse weather conditions requires adjusting one’s speed accordingly. And if the other driver was speeding, it can make assigning fault more clear-cut.
Driver Statements
The statements the involved drivers make after the accident can play a critical role in the outcome of the resulting claim. It is in your best interest to succinctly answer the questions put to you by the police while refraining from making additional statements or comments.
Tickets Issued
If the officer issued a driving citation at the scene of the accident, it will be included in their report, and it can make assigning fault less challenging.
Consult with an Experienced Pottsville Car Accident Attorney Today
The formidable Pottsville, PA, car accident attorneys at Fanelli, Evans, & Patel have the experience and legal insight to build a solid claim that supports a favorable resolution on your behalf. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 570-622-2455 today.