The police report plays an important evidentiary role in your Fort Lauderdale car accident case. This official report filed by law enforcement officers at the scene of your injury crash documents the officer’s investigation of the collision, what happened, and if anyone received citations.
When you entrust your case to a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer, they will build a compelling claim and pursue compensation for your injuries and related damages. This process will likely include securing the police report for the accident and gathering other evidence.
What Is The Role Of The Police Report In A Fort Lauderdale Crash Case?
Florida law requires all drivers to report a collision to police when there are injuries, fatalities, or more than $500 in damage to the vehicles involved. You must notify the police of any crash where you might need to file an insurance claim, even if you claim under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
You can file a fault-based claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver when your injuries meet the threshold established by Florida Statutes § 627.737. The police report will likely serve as crucial evidence in this case.
The Police Report Serves As Official Documentation
The police report provides an unbiased, detailed account of the accident based on the officer’s experience, investigation, and observations at the crash scene.
It Depicts The Crash Scene
The police report could include the officer’s observations about the accident, including diagrams of the crash scene and any citations issued.
It May Be Necessary For Your Insurance Claim
Insurers rely on police reports to determine fault and liability and develop an argument that shifts blame onto the victim. For this reason, many insurance companies require a police report when you file a claim.
It Could Strengthen Your Allegations Of Fault
If the police report corroborates your version of events and shows the other driver caused the crash, your car accident lawyer will likely use it to support your claim for the compensation you need and deserve. Another factor would be if the at-fault driver received a citation.
It Provides Key Information For Your Case
The police report will contain plenty of information in addition to what happened in the crash, such as witness contact information, details about vehicle damage, and notes about the road conditions. This information could help your attorney build a case and support your financial recovery.
What Difference Does A Police Report Make When Filing A Fault-Based Claim?
When you hire a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer and pursue a fault-based claim after suffering catastrophic injuries in a crash, the accident report might be even more important for these reasons:
- Significant effect on determining liability: The police report can significantly influence how an insurance adjuster assigns fault among the drivers in a Fort Lauderdale crash.
- Influence on settlement offers: Insurance adjusters and jurors often trust police reports in fault-based claims over eyewitness statements or other evidence, which could affect settlement offers.
- Highlights any traffic violations: It could strengthen your case when the at-fault driver receives a citation for a traffic violation or contributing factors such as speeding or drunk driving.
How To Obtain A Police Report After A Fort Lauderdale Collision
There are several ways to obtain a police report after a Fort Lauderdale crash: online, in person, and via mail. If you have severe injuries and hired a car accident attorney to manage your case, they will likely handle this process for you.
Online
Visit the Florida Crash Portal. Most reports filed in Fort Lauderdale are available within 10 days of the accident. The cost will be $10 plus a $2 service fee.
In Person
You can go to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department Records Division in person. This office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You will need to bring a valid ID, case number (if available), and a signed and notarized copy of the crash report affidavit available on the website. The cost of these reports is $0.15 to $1 per page.
By Mail
You can also send a written request to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department Records Division. This letter must include your contact information, case number, and payment.
Through Your Attorney or Insurance Company
Your accident claim lawyer will often obtain your police report as part of their investigation into your crash. They will manage the request and cover the fee when it is a part of your ongoing claim or lawsuit.
How Will An Attorney Help With My Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Injury Case?
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), 38,213 collisions were reported in Broward County last year. Of these, over 23,000 people suffered injuries and 220 died. When a motor vehicle crash results in serious injuries or death, victims have the right to pursue damages through a fault-based claim, working with a Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney to build a compelling case.
These attorneys and their legal teams fight for fair compensation for their clients based on the injuries and damages they endured. The law firms will secure police reports and gather other evidence to support their demand for compensation. When necessary, they will file lawsuits before the two-year statutory deadline expires.
Talk To Our Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Team About Your Case For Free
The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine offers free case reviews for those who suffer severe injuries in a Fort Lauderdale collision. We will explain how important the police report is in their car accident case and help victims build a case against a negligent driver who caused their crash.
Contact us today to find out how our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers can help with your case. We are here for you when you need us. Call today for your free case evaluation.
