Accidents can occur unexpectedly. Understandably, people involved in accidents may feel lost and overwhelmed. However, it is critical to understand what to do in Lansing, Michigan, following an automobile accident.
Getting a police report is one crucial step. Important details concerning the occurrence are included in this paper, which may be helpful for peace of mind of those involved, a well as for legal reasons and insurance claims. If you’ve been injured in a crash, The Clark Law Office can help you obtain your police report, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Important Role of Police Reports in Accidents
A police report plays an important role in documenting the details of an accident. It gives an official and detailed record that can be used in various situations after the incident.
Law enforcement personnel attending to an accident site create formal records called police reports. Usually, these reports consist of:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Information about the people involved, such as names, addresses, and contact details
- Vehicle descriptions and registration details
- Statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Diagrams or sketches of the accident scene
- Officer’s observations about road conditions, weather, and any visible damages
- Preliminary assessment of fault based on the findings of the police officer.
This report provides a clear, unbiased summary of the incident, making it valuable for insurance companies, attorneys, and investigators.
Reasons You Need to Get a Police Report After an Accident
Getting a police report after a vehicular accident is essential for various reasons. Here are some of them.
- Insurance Claims: Insurance companies require policy owners to submit a police report in order to process their claims. The report helps support the parties’ claims and aids in proving the facts.
- Legal Evidence: If legal action becomes necessary, a police report becomes an objective piece of evidence in court.
- Establishing Fault: The police report has information on the responding police officer’s initial assessment of who may be at fault in the accident.
- Protecting Against Fraud: A police report can help reduce the risks of fraudulent claims since it provides documented facts about the incident.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that an official record exists can give those involved reassurance during the aftermath of an accident.
Types of Accidents Where You Need a Police Report
Not all accidents require a police report, but certain situations make it necessary:
- Injury or Fatality: If anyone involved is injured or killed, contacting law enforcement is mandatory.
- Property Damage: Michigan law requires a police report if property damage exceeds $1,000.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: A police report is crucial when the other driver leaves the scene.
- Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles: Trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles must be documented, making a police report necessary.
- Suspected Drunk or Impaired Driving: If driving impairment in one party is suspected, law enforcement should be involved immediately.
- Dog Bite: A police report is not required to seek compensation for a Lansing dog bite, but it will greatly strengthen your case
- Slip and Fall: Obtaining a police report plays a key role in your ability to seek compensation after a slip and fall in Lansing
In these cases, the police report provides an official record that can be utilized for insurance, legal, and investigative purposes.
Steps to Get a Police Report in Lansing, MI After an Accident
- Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement immediately after an accident. In Lansing, this is typically the Lansing Police Department or Michigan State Police, depending on the location.
- Wait for the Officer’s Arrival: When police officers arrive, they will evaluate the incident, speak with everyone involved, and take pictures of the area. Be sure to give accurate and truthful information.
- Obtain the Report Number: Before leaving the scene, ask the responding police officer for the police report number. This number will make it easier to locate the report later.
- Wait for Processing: Police reports are not available immediately. It may take a few days for the report to be processed and filed.
- Request the Report: In Lansing, there are several ways to obtain a police report: You can obtain a police report by visiting the Lansing Police Department Records Division in person during business hours, requesting it online through available portals for a small fee, or submitting a written request by mail along with the necessary payment.
- Pay the Required Fee: Police reports usually come with a small fee, which varies depending on the method of request.
- Review the Report: Once received, review the report for accuracy. If there are errors, contact the police department to request a correction.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer in Lansing, MI Help?
Dealing with the aftermath of a vehicular accident can be physically, mentally, and emotionally stressful. An experienced and reliable car accident attorney can provide valuable assistance when navigating the process of obtaining and using a police report. Obtaining a police report after a car accident is crucial for documenting key details about the crash, including statements from witnesses and law enforcement’s initial assessment of fault.
- Understanding the Report: Lawyers can interpret the details of the police report, including fault assessments and contributing factors.
- Filing Insurance Claims: The report can be used by a lawyer to support insurance claims and to negotiate on behalf of their client with insurance companies.
- Pursuing Legal Action: A police report is essential evidence in constructing a compelling case in the event that the accident results in a lawsuit.
- Ensuring Fair Compensation: Lawyers work to ensure that complainants receive just and fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Contact The Clark Law Office Today
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident in Lansing, MI, obtaining a police report is an essential step. The Clark Law Office can offer you the support you require during these trying times because of its vast experience in managing auto accident cases. For expert help with police reports, insurance claims, and legal representation, get in touch with their staff right now.
Following up appropriately after an accident can have a big impact on how insurance claims and legal issues turn out. A police report serves as a reliable basis for these processes and ensures that the facts of the incident are properly documented. Looking for a car accident attorney in Lansing? Work with a Lansing personal injury lawyer with proven results who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Police Report in Lansing
How long does it take to get a police report after a car accident in Lansing?
In Lansing, police reports are typically available within five to ten business days after the accident. However, processing times may vary depending on the Lansing Police Department’s workload or if the accident involved an ongoing investigation.
Where can I request a Lansing accident report in person?
You can request a copy of your accident report in person at the Lansing Police Department Records Unit, located at 3209 W. Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48917. If you have any questions, you can contact the department at (517) 483-4680.
Can I get my Lansing accident report online?
Yes, you can request your police report online through the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Purchasing System (TCPS). This option allows you to access your report from anywhere, though there may be a small fee associated with the request.
How much does it cost to get a Lansing car accident police report?
The cost of obtaining a police report depends on where you request it. Reports from the Lansing Police Department typically cost between $5 and $10, while reports from the Michigan State Police generally cost around $10. It’s always a good idea to verify the current fees with the respective department before making a request.
Can my lawyer request my Lansing accident police report for me?
Yes, if you’re working with a Lansing car accident lawyer, they can request the police report on your behalf. Your attorney will also review the report to ensure all relevant details are included and use it as evidence to strengthen your case.
