How to Obtain a Police Report After a Maryland Accident

One of the important steps you can take following a car accident is to obtain a copy of the police report. This crucial document helps establish the facts of the case, determine liability, and support insurance claims or potential legal actions. If you have questions about how to obtain this document, here’s a step-by-step guide on the process in Maryland and some information on why it’s essential for your case.

Why is a police report important in a car accident case?

A police report serves as an official record of your car accident, documenting the details surrounding the incident. This includes information about the involved parties, the location and time of the accident, witness statements, insurance carrier information, and the responding officer’s observations. The police report can be helpful to your attorney as they investigate your case.

• Establishing facts: The police report contains factual information such as the date, time, and location of the accident, the weather conditions, and the vehicles involved. This data is essential for building a solid foundation for your case.
• Determining liability: The police report may include the officer’s assessment of who was at fault. While this is not legally binding, insurance companies may consider the officer’s opinion when determining liability. It may also include statements that witnesses make regarding the incident and who they believe caused the collision.
• Supporting insurance claims: Insurance companies rely heavily on police reports when processing claims. The report can help expedite the claims process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
• Legal investigations: Your attorney may use the police report to gather vital information to help them build your claim.

Step 1: Identify the responding law enforcement agency

Determine which agency responded to your accident. In Maryland, this could be:

• Local police department: If the accident occurred within city limits, the city or county police may have responded.
• County sheriff’s office: For accidents in unincorporated areas, the county sheriff’s office may have jurisdiction.
• Maryland State Police: For accidents on highways or in certain rural areas, the Maryland State Police might have responded.

Once you know which agency was involved, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Gather the necessary information

Before requesting the report, collect the following details:

• Date and time of the accident: The exact date and time of the accident are vital for identifying the correct report.
• Location of the accident: Provide the exact location, including the street name, intersection, or highway mile marker where the accident occurred.
• Names of involved parties: The names of the drivers and passengers involved in the accident will assist in locating the report.
• Incident or case number: If you were given an incident or case number at the scene of the accident, this will make it much easier for the agency to find your report.
• Vehicle information: The make, model, and license plate number of the vehicles involved can also help identify the report.

Step 3: Contact the appropriate law enforcement agency

Once you have all the necessary information, you need to contact the law enforcement agency that responded to the accident. Most agencies in Maryland offer multiple ways to request a police report, including in person, by mail, or online.

• In-person requests: You can visit the law enforcement agency in person to request a copy of the report. This is often the quickest way to obtain your report, especially if you need it urgently. Be sure to bring a valid ID and any relevant information about the accident.
• Mail requests: Some agencies allow you to request a police report by mail. Send a written request with the necessary information and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Include a check or money order for the fee.
• Online requests: Many law enforcement agencies in Maryland offer online portals where you can request a police report. This is often the most convenient method, as you can request the report from the comfort of your home. However, there may be a processing fee, and you might need to create an account on the agency’s website.

Step 4: Pay the required fees

In Maryland, obtaining a copy of a police report usually requires a fee. The cost can vary depending on the agency and the method of request.

• In-person: You can pay the fee at the time of your visit, usually by cash, credit card, or check.
• Mail: Include a check or money order with your written request.
• Online: Pay the fee using a credit card through the agency’s online portal.

Step 5: Review the report for accuracy

Once you obtain the police report, review it carefully for accuracy. Look for any errors in the details of the accident, such as the date, time, or location. If you find any discrepancies, notify your attorney immediately so that they can take the necessary steps to correct the report.

• Witness statements: Ensure that the witness statements accurately reflect what was said at the scene.
• Officer’s observations: Review the officer’s observations, including the assessment of fault. If you believe the officer made an error or was biased in their assessment, it’s better to know this and be prepared for possible testimony from that officer.
• Damage and injuries: Verify that the report accurately describes the damage to your vehicle and any injuries you sustained. Underreporting or inaccuracies here can lead to challenges in your insurance claim.

Step 6: Provide the report to your attorney

If you are pursuing legal action, it is critical to provide a copy of the police report to your attorney. The report will help us build your case and determine the best course of action. We may also use the report to identify potential witnesses, gather additional evidence, and prepare for trial if necessary. With the report, we have more information we can use during the investigation and to determine what to request from the opposing party.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Maryland, don’t go through the complex process of obtaining a police report and pursuing compensation on your own. Contact the experienced Maryland car accident attorneys at Plaxen Adler Muncy today for a free consultation. We’ll help you secure the necessary documentation, ensure your rights are protected, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery. Call or submit our contact form to schedule your free case evaluation at one of our offices across Maryland today.