Why You Need To File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Paterson, NJ
Following a car accident, the police officer at the scene of the action will prepare a police report documenting the time and location of the car accident, the parties involved, their insurance information, and any witnesses to the accident. While a police report is inadmissible when a case goes to court, it can still prove useful in personal injury cases. Learn about the ways a police report can help your case in an injury claim and how a car accident lawyer can help.
“Hearsay” and Police Reports
While police reports provide useful information regarding the accident, the various parties, and contact information for any witnesses, these reports are often not allowed in a court case. This is because reports are considered “hearsay”, leading them to be inadmissible in a trial. Hearsay is an unsworn statement that cannot adequately serve as evidence.
The primary reason for why police reports are not allowed in court is that the police officer that made the report did not witness the actual accident. Without information from someone with full knowledge of an accident, the statement is only the police officer’s opinion of what happened. In addition, the report is not required to allow for cross-examination in court.
How a Police Report Can Be Used in Injury Cases
As noted, police reports aren’t usually allowed to be introduced in an injury case. However, there are several ways that a report can be used in the earlier stages of a claim. These steps include:
Request A Police Record
An incident report should be requested from the police department if you are injured and there is a known report regarding the accident. These can be collected online or by directly calling the law enforcement agency that was on scene at the time of the incident prepared a report.
Using Records From Police in Settlement Negotiations
Police records can play a major role in negotiations for personal injury settlements. All necessary information, including medical and police reports as well as other records and a demand letter, should be collected before filing a lawsuit. If the police report shows fault by the other driver/entity, this can be used as leverage in a potential settlement.
Determine Important Facts From Reports
A police report often provides key case information including incident date, weather, witnesses and other data related to your accident. With witnesses, they can be called on to testify at a trial or deposition. This can be a major advantage in a case as they can provide direct observations of what happened, which can be used in a case.
Car Accident Lawyers & Police Reports
Having a reputable car accident lawyer working with you after an accident can be a major help whether your case involves a trial or a settlement. They can collect all necessary data from police reports to medical records, and can advise you on future steps to take regarding legal representation.
Since 1988, Peter N. Davis & Associates, LLC has provided quality legal services for auto accident victims in New Jersey since 1988. to provide them the representation they deserve. From medical to financial to insurance issues, we work to help get you through the legal issues needed for your case. For more information about our firm and how police reports can affect your auto accident case, call us at (973) 279-7246(973) 279-7246.
Ask a Question,
Describe Your Situation,
Request A Free Case Review
Fill out the form below or feel free to call us at (973) 279-7246(973) 279-7246
Required Fields*
Your Information Is Safe With Us
We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us!
Real Clients and Real Reviews
I had a very positive experience with the Law Offices of Peter N. Davis & Associates. Nick Barrone handled my case, and I couldn’t be happier with the level of service I received. After my auto accident in Jersey City, NJ, I was dealing with ongoing back and neck pain and wasn’t sure what to expect from the legal process. Nick was professional, attentive, and always made sure I understood each step along the way. He took the time to answer my questions and genuinely cared about my situation. I felt supported throughout the entire process, which made a stressful situation much easier to handle. The firm worked diligently on my behalf and kept me informed the whole time. I truly appreciate their dedication and effort in helping me through this difficult experience. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate attorney.
I highly recommend the Law Offices of Peter N. Davis.
After I was rear-ended in a car accident and suffered injuries to my neck and back, they provided outstanding representation during a very difficult time in my life.
My attorney, Robert Russotti, and my case manager, Muminah Ramadan, were professional, compassionate, and attentive throughout the entire process. They helped me obtain the medical treatment I needed and were always available to answer my questions and address any concerns I had. Their diligence, communication, and dedication gave me peace of mind while I focused on my recovery.
I am truly grateful for the support and guidance they provided during my hardship. I would not hesitate to recommend the Law Offices of Peter N. Davis to my family and friends.
Thank you so much for your help.
I want to especially thank David Ventoso for always informing me what was going on with my case. He kept up with all my questions and answered every time I called him.
Awesome staff also
Thank you again
Angela Selby
In 2023 I was involved in a T bone accident, the injuries was severe and I knew I'll need an experienced Injury law firm to take the case and to help me get the best outcome.
I therefore called Peter N Davis and Associates. Within a few hours I had a representative at my door for interview and intake.
I've never regretted making that call, because they recommended me to a capable and reputable Healthcare Institution for my treatment.
I've had several procedures and surgeries.
They're help me navigate the difficult road of getting treatment and dealing with my case.
We've not done yet but I like their service so far.
The staff at the Law offices of Peter N Davis and Associates are experienced who have empathy and passion. They have a very good work ethics from the phone operators, Case management, Paralegals, Case lawyers and all.
Mr. Davis is very personable,
a problem solver he's down-to-earth
I had a great experience working with David Ventoso at the Law Offices of Peter N. Davis after my motor vehicle accident. I suffered injuries to my knee and lower back, and Mr. Ventoso along with Carolyn guided me through the entire process from start to finish.
They were always responsive to my questions and concerns, kept me informed, and made everything as stress-free as possible. They also referred me to receive the medical treatment I needed, which made a huge difference during my recovery.
Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was very pleased with my compensation. I highly recommend this law firm to any friends or family in need of a personal injury attorney.
