Can you claim a car accident without a police report? While you can claim a car accident without a police report, you will need medical evidence to support your case.
It also helps to have an experienced Charlottesville car accident lawyer on your side.
Why You Need Medical Evidence to Prove You Were Hurt in a Car Accident Without a Police Report
Medical evidence is key if you want to claim you were hurt in a car accident, but you do not have a police report. For example, you go to an emergency room after your auto accident. Your injuries are diagnosed and treated, and you receive ongoing medical care from here. Ultimately, your medical records can strengthen your claim that you were hurt in an auto crash.
An auto accident attorney can examine your medical records and other proof relating to your car crash injuries. They explain the steps to take immediately after a car accident and in the weeks following the incident. Your lawyer can help you build a case that proves someone else is liable for your auto collision, even if you do not have a police report.
MartinWren, P.C., has served thousands of clients in personal injury cases. We offer FAQs and other legal resources to car collision victims and their families. If you want legal help with a claim for a car accident without a police report, we are here for you. Contact us to get started.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call 434-817-3100
When to Claim You Were Involved in a Car Accident Without a Police Report
Do not wait to file a claim for a car accident, regardless of whether you have a police report. Per the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, you have two years from the date you suffer an injury to seek compensation from anyone liable for it. Beyond this period, you may be solely responsible for your injury-related losses. Your claim may also be subject to even shorter notice periods, and failure to satisfy those periods can cause you to lose your right to bring a claim.
A car accident attorney can walk you through the claims process. They know the biggest mistakes made after an accident and help you avoid them. As part of their efforts, they can negotiate with a liable party or their insurance company on your behalf.
Claiming you were in a car accident without a police report and attempting to obtain compensation from an at-fault party or their insurer fairly for your losses can be an uphill battle. If a liable party or their insurance company chooses not to cover your losses, you maintain legal options. At this point, your attorney may advise you to move forward with a personal injury lawsuit.
What Can Happen if You Proceed with an Auto Accident Claim Without a Police Report
It is possible to file a claim without a police report and get compensation from any liable parties. An auto crash lawyer helps you prove liability. They submit your claim in alignment with Virginia’s statute of limitations and notice periods. Next, they consider how a liable party and their insurer could argue their case against you.
An at-fault party or their insurance company could say your decision not to file a police report is a valid reason not to have to pay you damages. Your lawyer counters this argument by showing that you are not to blame for your losses. They learn about you and your case and develop their argument accordingly.
If a liable party or their insurance company has concerns about your case, either could offer a settlement. On the other hand, your lawyer is unafraid to have a judge or jury evaluate your case. If your case goes to trial, your attorney makes it clear to the court that you should not be held liable for your medical bills, lost wages, and all other accident-related losses.
Tips to Help You with a Car Accident Claim If You Do Not Have a Police Report
Just because you did not file a police report immediately after your auto accident does not mean you cannot do so. It is generally advisable to notify the police of a car crash within 24 hours of the incident.
If you do not, consider consulting a car accident lawyer to help you navigate the aftermath of your crash. They offer tips to assist you with your car accident claim without a police report, including:
Search Far and Wide for Proof
In addition to medical records, accident scene photos and videos, witness statements, and other proof can show that someone else is to blame for your auto collision. Your lawyer can collect evidence on your behalf.
They can use your proof to craft an argument that could lead a liable party or their insurance company to offer a car crash settlement that meets your expectations.
Trust Your Lawyer to Handle Your Settlement Negotiations
Your attorney provides insights into how to get a police report for a car accident and what to do if you have never filed one. They eliminate the guesswork from negotiating a settlement. If you get an offer, evaluate the proposal with your attorney. You and your lawyer can weigh the pros and cons of the offer. If you feel the offer is reasonable, accept it, and you can close your case.
Be Ready to Take Your Case to Trial
Your lawyer describes what a trial entails. It can be overwhelming to bring your auto accident case in front of a judge or jury. Remember, the court listens to both sides. If you claim you suffered losses in a car accident without a police report and have ample proof to argue your case, a judge or jury may be inclined to rule in your favor.
Throughout your case, your lawyer keeps the lines of communication open. They remain accessible to address your legal concerns and questions. Additionally, they ensure you are prepared for all stages of the legal process.
Get Legal Help with Your Car Accident Claim
MartinWren, P.C., provides exceptional legal services to car accident victims and their families. We can assist you if you are considering a car accident claim but do not have a police report on file. Allow us to help you with your case. Request a case consultation with us.
Call 434-817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
