One of the most critical pieces of information in a car accident case is the police report. This document can contain valuable information about circumstances surrounding the accident and may point to who was at fault.
If you were involved in an accident, an experienced San Antonio auto accident attorney at George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help obtain your police report and explain its role in your case.
When Do Police Make Car Accident Reports in San Antonio?
Texas law requires car accidents to be reported if they result in physical injuries, death, or property damage of more than $1,000. However, accident victims can report the crash even if these thresholds are not met. Depending on available resources, San Antonio Police may or may not respond to the accident.
What Information Is Included in San Antonio Accident Reports?
When a police officer responds to a car accident, they conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if any laws or traffic rules were violated and assist individuals who are injured. The accident report police officers prepare contains critical information, including:
- The exact date, time, and location of the accident
- Names and contact information for all drivers involved in the accident
- Information about the other driver’s vehicle, including the make, model, and license plate number
- A description of the accident
- Statements from all drivers involved in the accident
- Witness statements, when applicable
- A diagram that illustrates the positions of the vehicles at the time of impact
- Weather and road conditions at the time of the collision
The accident report may also indicate if the other driver was cited for a traffic violation relevant to the crash. For example, the police report may indicate the other driver was speeding, failed to yield, or found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This information can be critical in determining liability and the circumstances that led to the crash.
How to Obtain an Accident Report in San Antonio
Your car accident lawyer can help obtain the accident report. You’ll need it to make an insurance claim. If you want a copy for yourself, you can request a copy with the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) or the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), depending on whether the accident occurred within city limits. You can make your request in person or online. You’ll need to fill out a request form with basic information, including your name, the date of the accident, and the location where it occurred. You’ll also need to pay a small fee.
If you were injured in a car accident in San Antonio, obtaining your car accident report is the first step in seeking compensation for your injuries and losses. An experienced San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyer from George Salinas Injury Lawyers can request a copy of your report, conduct an independent investigation, and handle your legal claims so you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.