How to get a police report for insurance claims (and how an agent can help)

You may need a police report for insurance claims if you’re in a car accident, especially ones involving serious injuries or extensive vehicle damage. A police report describes when an accident happened, the parties involved, explanations of what may have caused it, and other details, and can serve as a solid basis for your insurance claims. If talking to the police for an official report sounds intimidating, don’t worry; your insurance agent can help guide you through the process.

A police report is an official, unbiased record of events and can help expedite your insurance claim, protect your rights, and prevent the other driver from changing their story. Keep reading to learn the importance of a police report for insurance claims, when you need a police report, what to do if officers don’t respond to the scene, how an agent can assist you, and other helpful information.

Do I need a police report for insurance claims?

Virtually all states have laws requiring you to call or file an official statement with the police after a car accident involving a crime (such as hit-and-run) or resulting in fatalities, serious injuries, or vehicle damage above a certain threshold. For example, New Jersey law requires you to call the police (who will file a report) if an accident causes at least $500 in damage or injuries.

But, do you need a police report for insurance claims? That’s a different question, and really depends on the requirements of your insurance policy and the seriousness of the collision.

Should I file a police report?

As long as you’re meeting the legal requirements of your state, you will most likely be able to access a police report for your insurance claim. However, it’s not always that straightforward.

Let’s say you were in a minor accident, or at least it seemed so at the time, but you began experiencing telltale signs of concussion or a mechanic flags serious structural damage to your vehicle a day or two later. Without a police report, it may be more difficult to establish fault and substantiate your claim(s). This is why it may be a good idea to err on the side of calling the police and requesting a report, even for minor accidents.

What to do if there is no police report taken at the scene

If you didn’t call the police or they didn’t arrive at the scene, make sure you gather evidence and, if possible, talk to witnesses and get their contact information. You should do this regardless of whether a police report was made.

Again, state laws may require you to call the police after an accident; but assuming you’re in compliance, you’ll likely need to file a separate report later. Keep in mind that the police may not be able to investigate after you’ve left the scene, but a report creates an official paper trail that can help back your claim.

Here are the legally mandated deadlines in select northeastern states for filing a report after a car accident has occurred:

How an agent can help you facilitate or obtain a police report for insurance claims

Your agent can’t communicate directly with police or file a DMV crash report on your behalf, but they can advise you and help you gather any pertinent information. For example, you might ask your agent, “Can I file a claim without a police report?” They’ll know whether your situation meets the legal requirements in your state, or (if it isn’t required) whether it makes sense to file or request a report as a way to help expedite your claim. Once a police or DMV report is filed, your agent will forward it to the claims adjuster.

How to request a police report for insurance claims: The basics

The exact procedures and information needed for an official car accident report are determined at the state level. Keep in mind that police departments and motor vehicle departments are separate entities, and you’ll likely need to file a form with your state’s DMV even if the police arrive at the scene and file a report. Make sure you double-check your state’s procedures — your independent agent can help with this — but here are the basic steps:

1. Call law enforcement (state troopers, county sheriff, or local police) following a car accident that involves fatalities, injuries, major vehicle damage, uninsured motorists, hit-and-run, or other complications. If possible, write down the responding officer’s name, department, and badge number, and the police report number.

2. File a crash report with your state’s motor vehicle department within the deadline. Be sure to gather relevant information at the scene, including the time and place of the accident, details of what happened, license plate numbers, and contact information of those involved.

3. Contact your insurance company and tell them you were involved in a car accident, providing any details they request. You should also give them the police department and report number if you have it.

Work with an independent agent who has your back

Now that you understand the importance of a police report for insurance claims, and how your agent can help, do you have additional questions or concerns about automobile coverage? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with an independent insurance agent who understands how crucial it is to have the right coverage at a reasonable rate.

Legal Disclaimer: The views of the author are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Plymouth Rock. This article is intended to provide general insurance information. It is not intended to constitute professional legal advice, nor should it be relied on as legal advice. References to state or federal legal requirements may not be current, as laws regularly change through legislation, regulations, and case law. If you have questions, you should seek the advice of a licensed insurance agent or an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction. Actual insurance coverage is subject to the policy as issued.