Some people feel that it is unnecessary to call the police after a car accident. You’ll hear things like: “We can just exchange information, my car insurance will take care of everything.” Do not fall for this. Proper documentation is crucial. We have seen many times someone handing over an insurance card that may not be expired by date, but the policy has been cancelled for non-payment. Anyone can purchase insurance, and then not pay their monthly payment. This then renders their automobile insurance worthless. Stories also change when the stories are not documented into an official accident report. Don’t be a victim of this behavior! Protect yourself by making a crash report with the local police.
After a car crash, you should notify the police and try to get an officer at the scene (if they will come). The sooner you call the police and get an official report, the better your odds of recovering the damages you’re entitled to. Here’s why:
Your Best Evidence
An officer at the scene of the crash will write a police report, an unbiased account of where the crash occurred and who was involved. He will document who is at fault, and whether a driver was likely distracted, or even under the influence of something. This is, perhaps, the best evidence you can have after an accident because it starts the paper trail demonstrating that you were injured as a direct result of the crash.
While police presence is required at any crash where someone was seriously injured or killed, officers may not arrive for collisions where drivers are safe and there are no visible injuries. If law enforcement never comes, you can go to your local police department precinct and make the report there. This is a common request made in car crashed happening in the City of Cleveland.
Additional Testimony
While waiting for the police to arrive, try to identify nearby witnesses, either pedestrians, store owners, or people who pulled over after the crash. Ask if they’d be willing to stick around and provide a statement once the police arrive. Witness statements are especially valuable because they give an unbiased account of the crash. Even if they can’t give their statement directly to the police, make an effort to get their phone number or email so your attorney can contact them in the future. Witness testimony can be invaluable in determining who was at fault for the wreck.
Also, check the area for any cameras that may be pointing in the direction of where the crash occurred.
If you or someone you love suffered severe injuries in a car accident, we’re ready to help. If you’d like to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Northeast Ohio car accident attorney from the law firm of Obral Silk & Pal, LLC, please call or text us at 216 – 529 – 9377. We are here for you twenty-four hours a day.
