How To Get a Police Accident Report
How to Get a Motorcycle Accident Police Report in Los Angeles
To receive a copy of a California motorcycle accident police report, you can file a request online or by mail with the local police department. While most collision reports are available online, you may have to request a copy by mail if it involves a crime, such as a hit-and-run.
What’s in an Los Angeles Police Accident Report?
A California police accident report contains key information about the crash, including:
- The time, date, and location of the accident
- The names and contact information of the parties involved and witnesses
- The impact areas and damage done to the vehicles involved
- The responding officer’s initial understanding of how the crash occurred
- The weather and road conditions at the time of the accident
While police reports generally aren’t admissible as evidence in court, your lawyer can still use the report to identify witnesses and uncover other evidence to support your insurance claim.
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FAQ
When Should You Get a Police Report?
You should acquire your police report as soon as possible. The faster you get it, the faster any insurance claims and legal processes can get started. Los Angeles law enforcement typically processes accident reports within seven business days. Don’t feel shy about reaching out to check up on the status of your report.
Why Should You Get a Police Report?
When seeking compensation for motorcycle accident injuries, there’s no such thing as too much evidence. Arizona Crash Reports completed by the police are among the best pieces of evidence you can have. They can provide the following:
- Proof of the accident
- Proof of parties involved
- Initial fault assessment
Keep in mind that the responding officer’s fault assessment is only an initial one. Even if the officer believes you were at fault for the crash, your lawyer may arrive at a different conclusion after reviewing all the available evidence. Many people fall victim to the media-driven stereotype that motorcycle riders are reckless people, and the officer who completed the report may share this bias. You should always consult an attorney before accepting anyone else’s account of the crash and who caused it.
Average Time to Get a Police Report in Los Angeles
While you may receive a copy of the collision report within a few business days of your request, the LAPD recommends waiting at least 45 days after the accident before filing your request. This allows the report to be reviewed and entered into the online system.
When to Contact an Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorney
In short: right away. Seeking legal counsel immediately after a motorcycle accident can be crucial when seeking compensation for your injuries. A lawyer will:
- Provide legal guidance
- Review the police report
- Gather evidence
- Send a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurer
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
We offer free case evaluations. You won't pay a dime unless we secure compensation for you. Don't make any assumptions about your case. Speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer first.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Report in California?
How long you'll have to wait before the report is in your hands will vary depending on the accident. Typically, your accident report will become available within a week or two. However, accidents reports of accidents involving serious injuries or death can take longer.
File Your Claim in Time
Under California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, you have two years to file lawsuits against the parties responsible for your injuries. If you don’t file your lawsuit before the deadline, the court can dismiss your case without a hearing.
It’s important to make sure you get a copy of the police report long before this deadline so you can use it to file an insurance claim. Filing a lawsuit is generally the next step if the at-fault party’s auto insurance provider denies your claim, and you want to leave plenty of time in case you need to take legal action.
Motorcycle Bias in Police Reports
Unfortunately, bias against bikers after accidents is common, and this bias may even appear in the police report. Without supporting evidence, the officer may state that they believed you were at fault for the accident simply because you are a motorcycle rider.
An experienced motorcycle injury attorney can gather evidence that shows the other party was fully or primarily at fault for the crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about California motorcycle accident police reports.
You may need a copy of the police report when filing a claim against the at-fault party’s auto insurance policy after a motorcycle accident. Additionally, police reports can contain key information your motorcycle injury attorney can use to strengthen your case, such as eyewitness names and contact information.
While getting a police report in some California counties is free, that is not the case for getting a report from the LAPD. There is a $15 fee to obtain a copy of a collision report through the mail.
Even if the police report says you were likely at fault for the accident, your lawyer can search for and gather evidence proving that not to be the case, which you can use when seeking compensation from the other party’s insurance company.
Contact a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
The period after a motorcycle accident can be fraught with stress and anxiety, on top of the challenges associated with medical treatment and the healing process. Let Law Tigers make the process more straightforward by handling every detail of your claim. Contact a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney today to share your story and learn about your legal rights and options.