If you have been in a car accident, taking the necessary steps to protect your legal rights and interests is imperative. Obtaining a copy of the police report is one of the most important things you can do following a car accident. If you are pursuing a personal injury claim, a police report can be an essential piece of evidence that can be used to strengthen your claim for compensation. This article explains how to obtain a copy of a police report in Miami and why you must do so as soon as possible.
At the scene of an accident, the investigating officer usually writes a police report. Here’s what police reports typically contain.
Police reports provide details about the officer’s findings and assist in determining whether any citations or arrests were made, as well as the officer’s opinion on fault in the accident. As a result, police accident reports are often crucial evidence in cases relating to car accidents. It is vital to obtain a copy of the police report when you have been injured in an automobile accident in Miami or anywhere in Florida, especially if you plan to seek compensation.
Presents essential information about your car accident
Your police report contains essential information that can be used to support your claim for personal injury compensation. It includes the names and contact information of witnesses, the date, time, and location of the accident, the type and extent of damage to the vehicles involved, and any citations or charges issued. By gathering this information, your attorney can investigate your case, identify potential witnesses, and build a compelling case on your behalf.
Establishes liability
The police report can help establish liability in the accident. The officer who responds to the scene of the accident will typically make observations and conclusions regarding the cause of the accident. If the officer concludes that the other driver was at fault, this can be a crucial piece of evidence in your personal injury claim. Additionally, it is possible to determine whether or not traffic laws were violated and whether any citations or charges were issued to the other motorist.
Provides a Tool for Negotiating Settlements
In obtaining a police report, you are empowering yourself or your Miami car accident lawyer to maximize the value of your claim. The report may establish that the other driver was at fault, enabling your attorney to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. In addition, you can use the report as evidence in support of your claim for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many settlements are reached before going to court, but once you accept one, further action may be limited or impossible. A qualified car accident attorney can help you determine whether any settlement offer is fair compensation for your accident or personal injury claim.
The police department that responded to the accident scene can provide you with a copy of your police report. In order to receive a copy of your accident report, you must submit a signed statement or affidavit.
Additionally, please be aware of the following: Section 316.066, Florida Statutes governs the completion and distribution of traffic crash reports. As part of this law, only you, other parties involved in the accident, or legal representatives of the parties involved, may request a police report of the car accident. The general public is not permitted to access traffic crash reports except for those parties who were involved in the crash and those who are specifically named in the report. Unlawful disclosure of confidential personal information and unlawful acquisition or attempted acquisition of confidential personal information are criminal offenses (third-degree felonies). A car accident report is typically available to the public after 60 days.
If you were involved in a car accident in Miami, you can contact the Miami Dade County Police Department at 305-4-POLICE (305-476-5423). To visit in person, book an appointment between 8 AM and 4 PM each day, and you must make an appointment online. The Miami-Dade Police Headquarters Central Records
Bureau can be found at the following address:
9105 NW 25th St.
Doral FL 33172
Keep in mind that you may need to provide specific information at the time of your request, such as the date and location of the accident and the names of the drivers involved.
According to the Miami-Dade County Police Department, the fastest way to submit your request is through the Florida Crash Portal Florida Traffic Crash Reports online system.
To receive a Miami police report by mail, you must complete a signed statement or affidavit. If you need ten records or fewer, the FHP Troop Station closest to the accident scene can help you. However, for more than ten records, you must include a request letter, a signed statement, and payment mailed to:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Crash Records
2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 28
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Following your car accident, you may want to obtain a copy of the police report, but you may feel like you lack experience or may be concerned about contacting the police to request a copy. If you feel uncomfortable obtaining a police report on your own, need help to make changes to an incorrect police report, or would like to initiate a car accident claim, you can contact The Ward Law Group at 855-DOLOR-55. Our experienced car accident attorneys, with expertise in Florida car accident law, are ready to fight for you!
Watch what Denise Guilbaud says about her experience with The Ward Law Group. Denise received maximum compensation after her car accident claim, and we are ready to do the same for you. Contact us now for your free consultation!
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