Reasons to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Michigan

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By law in Michigan, it’s compulsory to file a police report after a car accident if it resulted in more than $1,000 in property damages, there was bodily injury or death, or you struck unattended property and caused damage.

But the best car accident attorneys generally advise their clients to get one within 24 hours of the accident – no matter how minor it may seem.

There are, in fact, many reasons to file a police report following a car accident. And they all serve to help you with any potential accident injury settlement down the road.

What Is in a Car Accident Injury Police Report?

After a car accident, it’s not unusual to be distressed or frightened. Your first thought may not be to call the police. But it’s important you take that step in order to have an objective viewpoint of your accident.

A police report contains the exact date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the road and weather conditions. The police will get the identity of the drivers and passengers involved and provide details on whom the investigating officer believes is at fault.

All damage and injuries sustained will be in the report, as well as statements, names, and contact information for witnesses. It will also contain the insurance information of all parties and any details of the preliminary investigation conducted by officers at the crash site.

The officer filling out the report will use the UD-10 Traffic Crash Report. This is a document the Michigan State Police uses to provide details of a crash for statistical analysis and reporting. The officer will give you an incident report associated with the UD-10 Traffic Crash Report when you need a copy. You can also download it.

Reasons to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Michigan

On a purely practical level, you’ll want to file a police report because your insurer or the other party’s insurance company will require it. Having this record of your accident can prove to be a crucial piece of evidence for accident injury compensation claims. Without a police report, your claim may be rejected.

It’s not unusual to assume you’re not injured after a car accident. Especially if it was a minor one. The adrenaline pumping through your body can easily mask any injuries that may emerge later. A police report (along with seeking medical attention) provides you with a record that you were in a crash and that the injuries resulted from it. In addition, it keeps you protected should the other party feign an injury and try to make you liable.

The same logic applies to damage to your vehicle. While there may not be visible outward damage on a bumper, for instance, your frame or alignment could still be negatively affected. Having a police report can link the damage to the accident and, once again, protect you if the other party attempts to make a false claim.

Do You Need Help After Your Michigan Car Accident?

At the end of the day, one of the best reasons to file a police report after a car accident in Michigan is that it provides an unbiased official record and accurate summary of your car accident. Thus, it’s considered a reliable source during litigation. And every little bit helps!

Speaking of help, if you’re seeking trusted representation after a Michigan car accident, you’ll find it at Kajy Law. So call Kajy Law today at 877-KAJY-CARES for trusted legal assistance. You can also fill out our online form to request a FREE consultation.

Our team of dedicated car accident attorneys will assess the facts of your case to determine liability and get you the maximum compensation.

CONTACT US FOR HELP TODAY!

Call 248-702-6641 or fill out the form below.