Unfortunately, auto accidents occur quite frequently in cities all over the United States. The city of Fresno is just one of those cities that sees its fair share of collisions. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to know what information you will need to gather at the scene to be able to make a personal injury claim with a local Fresno personal injury lawyer.
The Importance of a Police Report
Without a police report, each of the parties involved will only be pointing fingers at the other. A police report is vital to a personal injury claim because it details the auto accident. If there were any contributing factors, such as inclement weather or alcohol, these will be noted by either the Fresno Police or by California Highway Patrol, whichever has jurisdiction where the accident occurred.
What other information is recorded in a car accident police report?
- Which driver was at fault and how they caused the collision
- Any injuries that are apparent at the time of the accident
- The type and severity of damage to the vehicles involved
- Insurance information and other vital details of each driver
- Contact information for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses
How to Obtain the Police Report
There are two ways to obtain a copy of the police report from the Fresno Police Department. The most convenient way is to request it online. You will receive the police report almost immediately. However, there is a convenience fee of $12. You can get a copy for free if you go to the Police Records and Information Service Bureau. There is usually a long wait, so it’s recommended you request the report online.
If the California Highway Patrol had jurisdiction where the accident took place, you will need to request a copy of the collision report from them. You can do this in person at your local CHP field office or by filling out the request and mailing it in.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Fresno
Once you have a copy of the police report made at the time of the accident, it’s important to seek the advice of a local personal injury lawyer. A lawyer that specializes in personal injury claims can represent you when seeking a settlement from the other driver’s insurance company. They can also represent you should the case need to go through the city of Fresno or state of California legal system.
If you aren’t able to obtain a copy of the police report personally, your personal injury attorney may be able to do this on your behalf once they have more information about you, the other driver, the vehicles involved, the vehicle damage, and the injuries sustained.
When it comes to getting the compensation you deserve after an auto accident, it’s important to find an experienced and dedicated attorney to help you file your personal injury claim. Martin Gasparian, a lawyer with the Maison Law Firm in Fresno, is ready to meet with you to discuss your personal injury claim. Learn more at MaisonLaw.com or give them a call at (559) 203-3333 to set up your free consultation.
