Police Reports Are Not Always Right
Author: Auger Law | January 11th, 2017
Car accidents occur in Charlotte and the rest of North Carolina on an almost daily basis. From minor fender benders to severe collisions, car accidents are often the fault of human error. Whether a person is distracted while driving, changing lanes improperly or speeding down the highway, accidents typically occur because a driver is negligent in some way.
While most people accept that drivers make mistakes, they rarely assume that a police officer will. Somehow, police officers are held to a higher standard and we often forget that they are human, too. One of the first things a driver will do after an accident is summon the police to fill out a report. What happens when that report is incorrect?
Misinformation
Police officers in Charlotte are used to filling out accident reports. Most officers will take the time necessary to look over the scene and try to determine what happened and who may be at fault. In some instances, an officer may be in a hurry and fail to gather information from all drivers and witnesses. This can lead to errors in crash reports.
When you are given a copy of the report, either in person or by mail, it is important that you look it over carefully. If you notice an error on the report, make an attempt to contact the officer that completed it. You can do this by calling or visiting the police station that the officer works at. Even if the officer refuses to make the corrections, you shouldn’t worry. An accident report is rarely admissible as evidence in court. What can happen, however, is an affect on the amount of the settlement you receive from an insurance company. Here is what you can do to protect yourself.
Document Injuries
Even if you don’t feel as though you are injured, seek medical attention. You could have a hidden condition that will become apparent in the days or weeks following your accident. When you fail to seek medical attention or document your injuries, an insurance company may deny your claim.
Visual Evidence
It doesn’t matter what type of accident you are involved in. If you are physically able to do so, document visual evidence. Take pictures of the scene, of any property damage or lack of, and injuries. Almost everyone has a smartphone these days, making it very easy to gather needed evidence following an accident.
Legal Help
If you are involved in a car accident, you need legal help. Reach out to Auger Law for assistance today. Representation by one of our experienced attorneys means that you won’t have to fight the insurance companies on your own and that you have someone in your corner. We look out for the best interests of each of our clients and put our knowledge and experience to best use. We can help you pay for repairs, cover your medical bills and even secure lost wages. Call today or browse our website to discover more about our firm and the types of cases we handle.
