The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. The process can feel daunting, from dealing with injuries to handling insurance claims. One of the most critical steps after a collision in Fort Worth is obtaining an accident report.
This document is an official crash record vital in determining fault, supporting insurance claims, and protecting your legal rights. Without it, proving what happened and securing fair compensation can become significantly more complicated.
As a trusted car wreck law firm in Fort Worth, TX, we know how vital accident reports are for victims. Understanding how they work, when to request them, and how they affect your claim can make a difference in your case.
What Is an Accident Report?
An accident report, also known as a crash report, is created by law enforcement officers responding to a motor vehicle collision. It includes essential details such as:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- The names and contact information of all parties involved
- Insurance details of the drivers
- Statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- The officer’s observations and assessment of fault
- Weather and road conditions at the time of the crash
- Any citations issued as a result of the accident
In Texas, accident reports are required for crashes involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.062, police officers must file a report within ten days of the crash if it meets these criteria.
Why Are Accident Reports Important?
1. Establishing Fault and Liability
Determining who is responsible for a car accident is crucial to any personal injury claim. Insurance companies and attorneys rely on accident reports to assess liability. The responding officer’s observations and conclusions in the report can serve as an objective record of the crash, helping to establish fault.
If the report indicates that the other driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was intoxicated, it can significantly strengthen your claim for compensation. As an accident attorney in Fort Worth, we use these reports to build strong client cases.
2. Supporting Insurance Claims
Insurance companies require evidence to process claims. An accident report provides a detailed account of the incident, making it easier for claim adjusters to evaluate damages and determine payouts. Without a report, insurers may dispute your claim, delay payments, or offer lower settlements.
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. The accident report can help minimize disputes over liability and ensure you receive fair compensation.
3. Providing Crucial Evidence in Lawsuits
If an insurance settlement is not sufficient, a lawsuit may be necessary. Accident reports can serve as vital evidence in court. The report details, with witness statements and physical evidence, help attorneys argue on behalf of injured victims.
Additionally, if the at-fault driver denies responsibility, the report can refute false claims and provide credibility to your case. As a Fort Worth auto accident attorney, we frequently use accident reports to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.
How to Obtain an Accident Report in Fort Worth
In Fort Worth, accident reports are maintained by the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). You can request a copy through:
- The Fort Worth Police Department: Reports are available online or in person at the Records Division. The fee is typically around $6.
- The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): TxDOT maintains reports in the Crash Report Online Purchase System.
To request a report, you will need:
- The date and location of the crash
- The names of the drivers involved
- The case number (if available)
What to Do If There Are Errors in the Accident Report
Mistakes in an accident report can negatively impact your case. Common errors include incorrect vehicle descriptions, inaccurate statements, or missing information. If you find an error, you may be able to request an amendment by:
- Contact the police officer who filed the report and provide evidence to support the correction.
- Submitting a written request for an amendment through the Fort Worth Police Department.
- Consulting a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth to challenge inaccuracies and ensure the correct details are reflected.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
While an accident report is an essential piece of evidence, it is not always enough to secure fair compensation. Insurance companies may still attempt to minimize payouts or blame the victim unfairly. If you have been injured in a crash, a Fort Worth auto accident attorney can:
- Review the accident report and other evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Ensure your legal rights are protected
- File a lawsuit if necessary to pursue full compensation
Accident Reports and Your Claim
Accident reports play a vital role in car crash cases in Fort Worth. They help establish fault, support insurance claims, and provide crucial evidence in legal proceedings. If you have been injured in a collision, obtaining your accident report and consulting an experienced accident attorney in Fort Worth can make all the difference in your claim.
At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to helping car accident victims navigate the legal process and recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
