In St. Louis, you can generally obtain a copy of your police report by contacting the Records Division of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.
Car accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic experiences, but obtaining a police report can provide crucial information to help you navigate the aftermath. A police report is a detailed document that describes the events leading up to and following the accident. It includes important information such as the contact details of all involved parties, road and weather conditions, the directions and points of impact of both vehicles, and any evidence of drug or alcohol use by drivers.
This article will discuss how to get a police report after a car accident in St. Louis and why it’s essential to your case. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies, filing a personal injury claim, or seeking compensation, a police report can help provide valuable evidence to support your case.
How to Get a Police Report After a St. Louis Car Accident
In St. Louis, you can generally obtain a copy of your police report by contacting the Records Division of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. You can do this in person, by mail, or online through the department’s website. Depending on the department’s processing times, receiving your report may take a few days to a few weeks.
What Information is Included in a Police Report?
Contact Information of All Involved Parties and Their Insurers
One of the essential pieces of information in a police report is the contact information of all parties involved in the accident. This includes all drivers, passengers, and witnesses’ names, phone numbers, and addresses. Additionally, the report should also list the insurance information of each driver. This information is crucial in filing an injury claim and ensuring that all parties involved are held responsible for their actions.
Road, Weather, and Lighting Conditions
In addition to providing personal details about those involved, police reports also document road conditions at the time of the accident.
For example, if there was construction going on or poor visibility due to weather or darkness that may have contributed to the collision, this will be noted in the police report.
This info can often be used as evidence during court proceedings or when submitting an insurance claim.
The Directions That Both Vehicles Were Travelling and Points of Impact
The police report may also describe the sitting positions of all vehicle occupants, the directions both vehicles were traveling, and the impact points. This info can give insight into the intensity of the crash and how each person was impacted by it.
Official Photographs and Bodycam Footage
The police report may include official photographs and bodycam footage of the accident scene. These visual aids can be used to recreate the accident and show how it occurred.
Drugs or Alcohol Test Results
A police report may also indicate whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the accident. If the officer suspects that drugs or alcohol played a role, they’ll conduct field sobriety tests and take a breathalyzer test to determine if the driver was impaired. If the test results indicate that the driver was under the influence, this information can be used to prove negligence on the part of the driver and strengthen your case.
Statements from Eyewitnesses
If there were any eyewitnesses to the accident, their statements are typically included in the police report. These statements can be used to corroborate your version of events and strengthen your claim. For example, if an eyewitness saw the other driver texting while driving or running a red light, this information can be used to show that they were at fault for the accident.
Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident
A police report can be a valuable resource after a car accident, providing critical information to help you navigate the aftermath. However, it’s important to remember that the legal process can be complicated, and insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer who can help guide you through the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
At The Hoffman Law Firm, we have over 25 years of experience helping clients navigate the aftermath of car accidents and fighting for their rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.