Why is Obtaining an Accident Report Important in North Carolina?

A traffic accident report in North Carolina, or anywhere else in the United States, is a vital document for anyone seeking compensation for personal injuries or property damage following a collision. This report is a key piece of evidence as it contains all the necessary details required to file an insurance claim. Since traffic accidents often involve negligence or careless driving, the accident report plays a crucial role in establishing who is at fault.

So, what does a North Carolina accident report contain?

It consists of a police officer’s narrative of the accident, including the date, time, and location of the incident, as well as information about road conditions and the circumstances of the crash. The report also details the cause of the accident, the extent of vehicle damage, injuries sustained by those involved, and the identity of the drivers. The report is typically compiled by the responding officer after investigating the scene of the accident.

When do you need an accident report?

It’s necessary for nearly all accidents, though the specific procedures can differ for major and minor collisions. For example, in North Carolina, if there are bodily injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding a certain amount, you must report the accident to the police immediately and remain at the scene. This enables law enforcement to create a detailed report. For minor accidents without injuries or substantial property damage, involved parties may report the accident to the police on their own, as a detailed law enforcement report may not be necessary. However, having an accident report is still vital when seeking compensation for damages.

How to Obtain a Car Accident Report in North Carolina

There are several ways to obtain a traffic accident report in North Carolina if you need one.

In-person: For those directly involved in or who have witnessed an accident, you can visit the local police department in North Carolina to fill out a request form for an accident report. Be sure to carry a valid state identification card, like a driver’s license, when you go. You’ll be required to sign a form to authorize the release of the report.

Through legal representation: Should you be injured and have a lawyer, your attorney can obtain the North Carolina accident report on your behalf. Under state law, you, your lawyer, and even your insurance company are entitled to access the report. In this case, there’s no need for you to fill out any forms or present your ID to the police.

Online: Eventually, all accident reports in North Carolina are made available online. There are platforms that offer free access to these reports for all individuals involved in vehicle accidents and their families. You can quickly get your free report by completing a provided online form, with no obligation.