When you’re involved in a car accident, one of the most important pieces of evidence you can have is a police report. It’s not just paperwork—it’s a critical document that can make or break your insurance claim or personal injury case.
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand how a detailed, accurate police report can be the key to proving fault and securing full compensation for our clients. Here’s why these reports matter and how to get one after a crash in California.
Why a Police Report Matters After a Car Accident
1. It Provides an Official Record
A police report is an objective, third-party account of the accident. It includes details like:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Weather and road conditions
- Vehicle positions and damage
- Driver and witness statements
- The officer’s preliminary assessment of fault
Insurance companies and attorneys rely on this report to assess credibility and assign liability.
2. It Can Strengthen Your Insurance Claim
If the other driver disputes fault, your insurance company may lean heavily on the officer’s findings. Having a report that supports your version of events can mean the difference between a quick settlement and a prolonged fight.
3. It Helps Protect You Against False Claims
Without a police report, the other party could later change their story or even file a false claim. A written report locks in key facts and prevents conflicting versions of what happened.
4. It Can Support a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your injuries are serious and you file a personal injury claim, the police report provides foundational evidence for your attorney to build your case. It can help identify witnesses, verify timing, and show that the other driver violated traffic laws.
How to Get a Police Report in California
After an accident, there are several ways to obtain the police report depending on which agency responded to the scene.
1. Identify the Responding Agency
This could be:
- The California Highway Patrol (CHP) for freeway or highway crashes
- The local city police department for city streets
- The county sheriff’s department for unincorporated areas
If you’re unsure, check your accident receipt or contact the non-emergency police number for confirmation.
2. Request the Report Online, by Mail, or In Person
Each agency has its own process, but generally you’ll need to provide:
- The report number (officers often give you this at the scene)
- The date and location of the accident
- The names of drivers involved
- A valid photo ID
You may also need to pay a small fee (usually $10–$25).
Examples:
- CHP: Use CHP Form 190 and mail it to the appropriate office.
- LAPD: Reports can be requested through LexisNexis Police Reports.
- LA County Sheriff’s Department: Use their Records and Identification Bureau portal.
3. Your Attorney Can Handle It for You
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we regularly obtain police reports on behalf of our clients. Our team knows which departments to contact and how to expedite the process so you can focus on recovery.
What If the Police Didn’t Come to the Scene?
Sometimes, especially with minor fender benders, officers don’t respond. If that happens:
- You should still file an accident report with the DMV using Form SR-1 within 10 days if there’s any injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
- Gather as much evidence as possible—photos, witness names, license plate numbers, and insurance info.
- Contact WIN Trial Lawyers immediately—we can help reconstruct what happened and preserve your rights.
How Police Reports Affect Fault Determination
While police reports are powerful, they aren’t final. Insurance adjusters and courts may consider additional evidence such as:
- Traffic camera or dashcam footage
- Eyewitness statements
- Vehicle damage analysis
- Expert testimony
However, the officer’s initial determination often carries significant weight—especially if the report notes a traffic violation like running a red light or following too closely.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get legal help. A police report is just one piece of the puzzle, but an experienced attorney can use it to build a strong, evidence-backed claim for compensation—including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we help accident victims across California get the justice and financial recovery they deserve.
Contact WIN Trial Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, our team can help you:
- Obtain and review your police report
- Deal with insurance adjusters
- Prove fault and damages
- Recover maximum compensation
Protect Your Rights with WIN Trial Lawyers
At WIN Trial Lawyers, we know how devastating distracted driving accidents can be. Victims often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Our team has successfully taken on insurance companies and distracted drivers, recovering millions for injured clients.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a speeding-related car accident, don’t leave your future in the hands of the insurance company. You need experienced trial lawyers who know how to prove liability and fight for maximum compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, don’t face this alone. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
