Truck accidents are a serious concern on Texas roads. These massive vehicles can cause devastating damage and severe injuries when involved in collisions. If you’ve been in a truck accident, you might wonder if you need to file a police report. Doing so can protect your rights and help ensure you receive any compensation you’re entitled to.
Here’s what you need to know about police reports after a truck accidents and how our lawyers can guide you through the process.
When Should You File a Police Report?
In Texas, you’re required by law to file a police report for certain types of accidents. You must report any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. Given the size and weight of trucks, most accidents involving them will likely meet these criteria.
Even if your accident seems minor, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Injuries can sometimes take days to appear, and damage to your vehicle might be worse than it looks. Filing a report creates an official record of the incident, which can support your claim later on.
Benefits of Filing a Police Report after a Texas Truck Accident
There are several important reasons to file a police report after a truck accident:
- It provides official documentation of the crash. This can be crucial when dealing with insurance companies as it can support your claim.
- The report can serve as evidence if you need to file a lawsuit. It includes important details about the accident, such as road conditions, weather, and eyewitness accounts.
- A police report can help establish fault. The officer’s observations and conclusions can carry weight in determining who was responsible for the accident.
How to File a Police Report after a Truck Accident
Ideally, you should file a police report at the scene of the accident. Call 911 immediately after the crash if you’re able. When the police arrive, they’ll gather information and create the report.
If you couldn’t file a report at the scene, you can still do so later. In Texas, you have 10 days to report an accident to the police. You can visit a police station or file online in some cases.
What Information Do You Need to File a Police Report?
When filing a report, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your name, contact, and driver’s license number
- Your insurance details
- Details about your vehicle
- Identifying info about the truck and its driver
- A description of what happened
- Accounts of any injuries or property damage
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Filing a Police Report
When filing a police report, be careful to avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t admit fault, even if you think you might be responsible. Doing so could jeopardize your claim for compensation.
- Don’t leave the scene without documenting evidence if you’re able. Take photos of the damage and get contact information from witnesses.
- Don’t leave the scene too soon. Instead, wait for the police to arrive and complete their report. Leaving early could result in charges of leaving the scene of an accident.
How Does a Police Report Support Your Truck Accident Case?
A police report plays a crucial role in your truck accident case because it provides an official account of what happened. This can be invaluable when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
Your attorney can use the police report to build a strong case on your behalf. It can help prove the other driver’s fault and document the extent of your injuries and property damage.
When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
While a police report is important, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. In many truck accident cases, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney. You should consider legal representation if:
- You suffered severe injuries
- The trucking company or their insurer is disputing liability
- There are complex legal issues involved, such as multiple responsible parties
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How to Get a Copy of Your Truck Accident Report
Obtaining a copy of your crash report for your records and your attorney is essential after a truck accident. To get a copy, you can buy one online from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) through their Crash Report Online Purchase System.
Hurt in a Truck Accident in Texas? Call Kemmy Law Firm Today
Filing a police report after a truck accident in Texas is not just a legal requirement for many cases. Doing so is one of the best steps you can take to maximize the compensation you could recover with the help of a personal injury lawyer. It creates an official record of the accident, which can be crucial for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Texas, don’t face the aftermath alone. The experienced personal injury attorneys of Kemmy Law Firm are here to help.
Contact us today at (830) 264-6297 for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Kemmy Law Firm serves clients across Texas and New Mexico:
Truck Accident Lawyers in Odessa, Texas
101 N Jackson Ave
Odessa, Texas 79761
Truck Accident Lawyers in Hobbs, New Mexico
1601 N. Turner, Suite 417
Hobbs, NM 88240
Truck Accident Lawyers in San Antonio, Texas
1924 N Main Ave
San Antonio, Texas 78212
The post Do You Need to File a Police Report after a Truck Accident in Texas? appeared first on Kemmy Law Firm.
