How to Get an Accident Report
The official accident report is crucial to your claim for compensation after a car accident. It is a key piece of evidence that can help your lawyer, insurance company, and the court determine both fault and the percentage of fault. Those determinations can have an impact on your license, any fines or fees, and the compensation you may receive for the accident.
Knowing how to get an accident report is important, but it can also be something that our lawyers can take care of for you. On the other hand, if you want a report for your own records, California makes it relatively easy to obtain a copy.
How to File an Accident Report
There are several different types of accidents that occur in Sacramento. The officers who fill out the accident report know what to look for, what to ask, and what information is necessary to complete the report.
Because the process can be detailed and because you want to make sure the report is as accurate as possible, it is always a good idea to call the police immediately after the accident so they can fill out the report for you.
Obtaining a Report
Most accident reports are made available to the public within ten days of the date of the accident or date the report was filed. However, in cases that involve a fatality or a hit-and-run, the report may not be available for up to ninety days after the accident.
In any case, the city of Sacramento prefers to use one of two methods to release an accident report after an individual has proven he or she has a right to a copy of the report:
- By Mail – Mail all appropriate information to the Sacramento Police Department addressed to Attention: Records Report Request. The address is 5770 Freeport Boulevard, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95822
- Online – Reports can be obtained online by providing all pertinent information and paying a fee of five dollars.
Because car accidents and their aftermath can be complex and confusing, you’ll want to make sure you have qualified car accident lawyers to help you with the details.
Work with a Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
Your lawyer will know how to get an accident report, so you don’t have to worry about getting one yourself. Obtaining an accident report can be a frustrating detail to manage after an accident, especially if you are already dealing with injuries and stress caused by the event.
Whether you have missed this important detail or are just unsure of how to go about getting the report, our experienced lawyers at Crowell Law Offices can make sure any important information is gathered for your case.
Dealing with a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to manage yours alone. Our lawyers can ensure you receive any compensation you are entitled to and that the right person is held responsible. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, call 916-303-2800 and start working with an experienced attorney today.
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