Do You Need a Police Accident Report to File an Insurance Claim?

Getting into a car accident can leave anyone feeling rattled. Your heart’s pounding, your mind is racing, and it’s not always clear what you are supposed to do next.

After you’ve made sure everyone is okay and exchanged information, a common question pops up: Do I need to call the police? And do you need a police accident report to file an insurance claim?

Let’s look at when you should get a police report, when you can skip it, and why it matters when it comes to filing a car accident claim with your insurance company.

Is a Police Report Necessary for an Insurance Claim?

Not always. Keep in mind that having one can definitely make your life easier.

If you were in an accident, no one was hurt, and you and the other driver calmly exchanged information, you can probably file a claim without calling the police. Most insurance companies will accept your photos, notes, and an explanation of what happened.

But if things were more serious, like someone was hurt, the cars were badly damaged, or the other driver left the scene, then it is a good idea to get a police report.

A police report gives your insurer an official, third-party account of what happened. Here is how a report can help:

• It provides an objective, third-party account of what happened.
• It can help settle any disagreements about who was at fault.
• It includes useful details like witness names, weather conditions, and damage descriptions.
• It shows that you handled the situation responsibly.

This is like a safety net. If questions or disputes come up later, the police report is there to back up your side of the story.

Even if it feels like a hassle at the moment, taking the time to file a report can give you peace of mind and protect you if questions come up later.

When Is the Best Time to Call the Police to Get That Report?

Even if the accident does not seem like a big deal at first, you still want to call the police. Under Mississippi Code § 63‑3‑411, you need to file a police report if anyone was injured or killed, and/or there was $500 worth of damage. Some of these scenarios where you will want to alert the police may include:

Someone Was Hurt

If you or anyone else involved is injured, you should call the police. With that, you have an official record of the accident. That police report becomes an important piece of documentation for your insurance claim, especially if medical treatment is involved down the line.

The Cars Are Damaged

If there is visible damage to either vehicle, you may want to play it safe and get a report. What might look like a cracked bumper could actually lead to thousands in repairs. You may need a police report if the estimated damage is over a certain amount, and your insurance company wants something official to base a payment on.

You Were Involved in a Hit-and-Run

If the other driver sped off without giving you their information, you will need to call the police right away.

A hit-and-run is considered a crime. In most cases, the insurance company will require a police report to process your claim, especially if you are trying to use uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage.

The Other Driver Will Not Cooperate

Sometimes, people do not want to admit fault. If the other driver is refusing to share insurance info, is acting aggressively, or seems to be changing their story, it could be a good idea to get law enforcement involved.

The police can step in, take statements, and create a record that helps your insurer sort out what really happened.

When You Might Be Okay Without One

There are a few situations where you can probably file a claim without a police report. These may include:

It Was a Minor Fender Bender

If you are backing out of a parking spot and gently tap the car behind you, you might not need to get the police involved. This could only apply if no one has been hurt or there is no extensive damage.

In these cases, be sure to exchange insurance information, take photos of both cars, and write down anything you remember while it is fresh in your memory.

The Police Will Not Come Out

Sometimes, especially in minor accidents or in certain jurisdictions, the police will not respond unless someone is injured. If that happens, you can still file a claim. You will want to do your best to gather your own documentation: pictures, witness info, time and location, and a detailed description of what happened.

What If You Didn’t Get a Report at the Scene?

Life happens. The incident might have felt too minor to call the police, or you were in shock and did not think of it. Failing to get one does not mean you are out of luck.

If you did not file a report at the time, you can still get one if you’re within a certain timeframe.

Sometimes, you can contact the law enforcement agency and file a report at a later date. Once you have a case number, reach out to your insurance company with detailed notes about what happened.

When talking to an adjuster, provide them with photos, names of anyone involved, and any other supporting documentation you have. The more information you can give your insurer, the better they can evaluate your claim.

Get Assistance for Your Vehicle Accident

You do not always need a police report to file a car insurance claim. However, in many situations, it is a really good idea. If there are injuries, major damage, or a dispute about what happened, having that official report can save you a lot of stress and back-and-forth later on.

This whole process can feel overwhelming when you try to handle it by yourself. That’s why the legal team at Pittman, Roberts & Welsh, PLLC is ready to assist with your claim.

We can help provide options, whether or not you have a police report.