Rear-end collisions are very common. These accidents can cause serious physical injuries and lead to expensive property damages. When you are in an accident, you should report it to the police and have an accident report. While that is highly recommended, that isn’t always possible.
There are many reasons that a police report isn’t filed. You may be too upset or stressed to think about calling the police. You could back in the country where there isn’t cell phone service to make a call. You may not have access to a phone, or you or the other driver may be in a hurry to get to an appointment.
If you cannot file a police report after a rear-end collision, you should still gather supporting evidence and documentation so you can file a claim against the liable party and recover compensation for the damages that you suffered because of the rear-end collision.
Evidence To Use In Place Of A Police Report
If you have been in a crash and didn’t get a police report, there are other kinds of evidence that you can gather to support your personal injury claim. You will want to recover compensation for the damages that you suffered in the rear-end collision. You should exchange insurance information with the other driver.
Take photos of the accident scene and be sure to get the vehicles from all angles, show the point of impact, and the severity of the damages. You will want to ask any witnesses for statements. Get the names of any witnesses along with their contact details.
Check to see if a camera – dash camera, surveillance camera, or traffic camera – caught the crash on video. This video could be submitted as evidence to support your personal injury claim. Also, establish medical care right away and maintain copies of medical bills and medical records. Document any missed work and lost wages and be sure to get a written repair estimate from a qualified automotive repair facility. Keep any tow bills and rental car receipts as well.
How A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help Win Your Claim
The insurance company will have lawyers looking out for them and their client. You need to make retain a lawyer to look out for your interests and rights. Personal injury attorneys are familiar with the state and local laws, so they can make sure your claim is filed in a timely manner and before any deadlines. There is a strict statute of limitations, which is usually one or two years, after an accident has caused you harm and damages.
When you retain an accident injury attorney, you will not have to pay anything upfront. Instead, personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means that the attorney will not be compensated until you win your claim and recover compensation through a judgment or a settlement. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share the details of your case with an accident injury lawyer who takes cases in your area.
