In the aftermath of a personal injury, you’ve got so much to worry about. Medical bills, questions about recovery, and that crucial step of obtaining the police report. Whether you were involved in a traffic accident, a fall on uneven pavement, or any other incident requiring police intervention, understanding the different ways to access your report is essential. The personal injury attorneys at Lerner and Rowe offer up some tips on how to get your Los Angeles police report.
How to Get a Digital Copy of a Los Angeles Accident Report
After you’ve been injured, you need a quick and convenient way of getting your accident report. Not only will this document the incident and establish facts, it could also potentially strengthen your case for compensation down the line. If your report is already available online, the fastest way to access it is through the LAPD Online crash report search page.
Once there, you can enter your report number if you have it, or input either your last name and the date of the incident, or your last name and the street that the accident happened on. Once you have your report, you can make as many copies of it as you need and provide one to your Los Angeles personal injury lawyer.
Visiting an LAPD Station in Person
You can also request a copy of your report in person at any LAPD station. Not sure where your nearest station is? You can use this tool from LAPD Online to find it. You’ll need to bring a valid ID and proof of your involvement in the accident, whether that would be your driver’s license, registration, or any other identifying documents. Be aware that there will be a $5 processing fee if you choose this option.
How to Get a Los Angeles Police Report by Mail
If your report isn’t available online and you don’t want to go to a police station, you can also request it by mail. The first thing you’ll need to do is fill out the LAPD Traffic Collision Report Request Form (CHP 190). Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to include a copy of your driver’s license as well as a $10 check or money order payable to the City of Los Angeles.
After you’ve gotten all of that together, you can mail the completed form and payment to LAPD Records Section 150 North Main Street, Room 120 Los Angeles, CA 90012. You’ll want to allow four to six weeks for processing and delivery.
How Long Will It Take to Get a Police Report After an Accident?
Unfortunately, the waiting time for a Los Angeles police report after an accident can vary depending on several factors, making it difficult to give an exact answer. Regardless of your chosen method (online, by mail, or in person), there’s a minimum two-month waiting period before you can request your report. This allows officers time to complete their investigation and finalize the report.
5 Reasons to Get a Los Angeles Accident Report After an Accident
While not always mandatory, obtaining a police report after a Los Angeles car accident serves several crucial purposes that can significantly benefit you in the immediate aftermath of your crash:
1. Establishing the Facts:
The police report provides an official record of the accident, documenting the date, time, location, weather conditions, and witness statements. This can be invaluable evidence if insurance companies become involved.
2. Determining Fault:
The officer’s observations and conclusions about the cause of the accident can be crucial in establishing who was at fault. This can significantly impact insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
3. Documenting Injuries and Damages:
The report often includes details about the injuries sustained by the parties involved and the damage caused to vehicles and property. This documentation can be essential for claims and medical treatment reimbursement.
4. Strengthening Your Case:
If you decide to pursue legal action, the police report provides a neutral, third-party account of the incident. This can strengthen your case and support your claims.
5. Protecting Your Legal Rights:
Having a record of the accident demonstrates that you took the proper steps to document the incident. This can protect you from potential liability claims in the future.
Lerner and Rowe Can Help You Get a Los Angeles Police Report After an Accident
Don’t have the time or energy to get your police report after an accident? Leave it to us. Our team of compassionate attorneys is available 24/7 and can take care of obtaining the police report so that you can focus on getting better. Get in touch with us today for your free case review and evaluation by calling us at 310-INJURED, connecting via our convenient LiveChat feature, or filling out this FREE online form.