How To Get A Police Crash Report For A Virginia Car Accident
Understanding how to obtain a police report in Virginia, particularly after a car accident, can be crucial to ensuring you have all the necessary information for any insurance or legal matters that may arise. This document serves as a detailed record of the incident, including the parties involved, the location, any potential causes, and the damages incurred. Let’s walk through a step-by-step process on how to secure this essential report in Virginia.
There are Multiple Ways to Obtain a Police Accident Report in Virginia:
By Mail
To obtain an accident report by mail, you will need to submit either a written request or send a Request for Record Information Form. This form or request should be mailed to the following address:
Customer Records Work Center, Room 514
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Post Office Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269
If you choose to write a written request, the request must include:
- Your crash involvement (e.g., driver, injured person, owner of the vehicle and/or property involved at the time of the crash, etc.)
- Crash date and time
- Crash location (street, city/town/county)
- Driver name (if you were not the driver)
- Your driver’s license number (if you were involved in the crash)
Along with your completed form or request, please include a check or money order for $8, made payable to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Please note, the DMV does not accept credit card payments via mail.
By Fax
For those favoring the convenience of fax, acquiring a police report is straightforward. To start, you will need to thoroughly and accurately fill out two forms:
Form CRD-93 (Request for Record Information) and,
Form DMS 004 (License, ID Card and Records Payment Authorization)
Once completed, these forms should be faxed to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at (804) 367-0390. The processing fee for this service is $8. Payment can be made via check, money order, or credit card. Remember, accurate completion of all information on the forms ensures prompt processing of your request.
In Person
Obtaining police accident reports in person is a viable option that allows you to interact directly with the Department of Motor Vehicles. To get your police report, visit any DMV Customer Service Center in Virginia. Upon arrival, you’ll need to request a copy of your police report. The fee for this service is $8. The DMV accepts various payment methods including cash, checks, money orders, debit cards, and credit cards. It’s important to come prepared with specific information to expedite the process. This includes:
- Your name and address
- The date of the incident
- The location of the incident
- The case number (if you have it)
- A brief description of the incident
This direct method of obtaining a police report can be advantageous for those who prefer face-to-face interactions and immediate clarification of any uncertainties.
Through a Personal Injury Attorney
Enlisting the services of a skilled personal injury attorney, such as those at the law firm of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C., can streamline the process of obtaining a police report. Our knowledgeable and dedicated team is well-versed in navigating the complexities of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. We’ll field all the necessary paperwork, follow up with the requisite department, and ensure the report is expediently and accurately delivered. Additionally, we can offer invaluable insights into interpreting the police report, helping you to understand its potential impact on your car accident claim. By entrusting us with this task, you can focus on recovery while we take care of this critical administrative step. Contact our team to learn more today.
The Role of a Police Report in a Car Accident Claim
Traffic accident reports play a pivotal role in a car accident claim, serving as a key piece of evidence. This official document provides a detailed record of the accident, including the parties involved, the circumstances, potential causes, and damages sustained.
How Insurance Companies Use the Report
Insurance companies heavily rely on the police report when determining how to settle a claim. The report, complete with the officer’s observations and any citations issued, helps insurance adjusters establish the facts of the accident. Any indication of a traffic law violation or a fault determination in the report can significantly influence the insurer’s decision on liability and the settlement offer.
How the Report Influences Liability Decisions
In car accident claims, liability decisions are often influenced by the information contained in the traffic accident report. The report includes an unbiased third-party account of the accident scene, the damages, and any visible injuries. In many instances, it may also contain the investigating officer’s opinion on who was at fault, based on the evidence and statements collected at the scene. This can be a compelling factor when insurance companies are determining who is liable for the accident. Therefore, obtaining and properly understanding your car accident report can be crucial in successfully navigating your car accident claim.
Can the Accident Report Be Used in Court in Virginia?
No, neither side is allowed to use any such report as evidence or ask a witness any questions concerning the contents of the report. But, these reports still do play a pivotal role in pre-litigation investigations and insurance claims.
Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. Are Here For You
At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C., our car accident lawyers understand the stress and confusion that come in the wake of an accident. Our commitment is to stand by your side, providing comprehensive legal support and guidance every step of the way.
Navigating a car accident claim can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Your focus should be on recovery, and our focus is on advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait, contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards peace of mind.
