Yes, you can file an accident claim to insurance or even pursue a lawsuit without having a police report in many situations. The police report is just one form of evidence that helps paint the picture of what happened, who was present and how severe the damages were. It alone does not validate or invalidate your claim to compensation for the other party’s negligence.
However, a police report is a form of expert testimony from law enforcement investigators who were at the scene. This can expedite your case and even improve your chances of securing a more favorable settlement in the case of a lawsuit.
When a Police Report May Be Required After an Accident
In some cases, it’s not just smart to call the police after a crash but also required by law. The exact rules vary by state, but you’ll generally need a police report if the accident involves:
- Injuries or fatalities
- Major vehicle or property damage (typically between $500-$2,500, depending on the state)
- A hit-and-run
- Uninsured or uncooperative drivers
- Crashes on public streets or highways
When in doubt, it can be beneficial to call law enforcement. An officer can decide whether a formal report is needed. Having that report can make the insurance and legal process much smoother if you decide to pursue a claim or if you
dispute fault for the accident.
How To File a Car Accident Without a Police Report
If you didn’t call the police after your accident, you can still file a claim, but you’ll need to be thorough with your documentation. While a police report provides an official record of what happened, insurance companies often accept other forms of evidence to process your claim.
Here’s how to move forward:
- Gather all available evidence. (Photos of vehicles, damage, skid marks, weather conditions, and injuries.)
- Exchange information with the other driver.(Name, license plate number, insurance policy, and contact details.)
- Write down your own account. (Date, time, location, and how the collision occurred.)
- Collect witness statements. (Get names and phone numbers.)
- File a report with your state agency if required. (Some states allow direct submission to the DMV or local law enforcement after the fact.)
- Submit your claim to your insurer. (This is part of
what a lawyer does for you.)
While it is possible to handle a claim without a police report, things can get complicated if the other driver disputes fault or the insurance company tries to reduce your payout. A personal injury lawyer can step in to handle communication, collect additional evidence, and make sure you’re treated fairly throughout the process.
What Happens If You Do Not Report a Car Accident to the Police?
If you do not report a car accident and file a claim, it can complicate your case if a report was legally required. Having an experienced
car accident attorney from Sargon Law Group can help you navigate these complications. We can assist you at every step of the claims process and resolve any issues regarding the police report on your behalf.
Do You Need To Report a Minor Car Accident?
