It doesn’t matter how carefully you drive when you go to work, run errands, or travel to other recreational activities. When another person drives negligently, you may wind up in a car accident. If you’re involved in a car accident in Wisconsin, one of the first steps you should take is to obtain a police report. This document is crucial for several reasons.
First and foremost, the police report serves as an official account of the accident, detailing the circumstances, involved parties, and any citations issued. This can be invaluable for insurance claims and any potential legal actions that may arise from the incident. Additionally, having a clear, impartial record helps establish liability, making it easier to navigate the often complex claims process..
Car accidents can take a physical, mental, and financial toll on victims. A Wisconsin car accident lawyer can be of tremendous assistance in helping you with your personal injury claim.
Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP is a personal injury law firm committed to helping car accident victims. In this article, we discuss the importance of the car accident police report and walk you through the steps you need to follow to get a copy of a car accident report.
The Importance of Obtaining a Wisconsin Accident Police Report
Wisconsin law requires drivers to report a car accident to the Wisconsin State Patrol or police department in certain circumstances. Drivers in the state are bound by Wisconsin laws to notify law enforcement in any of the following scenarios:
Injuries
If any of the drivers involved or their passengers are injured, they are required to call 911.
Fatalities
When someone dies as a result of a car accident, this must be reported.
Property Damage
You are required to report any car accident that results in property damage greater than $1,000 or where there is $200 or more in damages to government property other than a vehicle. Keep in mind that something that may appear minor might cost more in today’s economy.
Additionally, it’s important to make a car accident report when you need to have your car towed because it has been rendered immobile. Any car crash that involves injuring or killing some form of wildlife, such as deer, should also be reported to the police.
What Does a Law Enforcement Officer Put in the Crash Report?
When you get into an auto accident, police reports can be useful evidence in your personal injury case. The report provides an official account of the accident, which can be crucial for establishing the facts of the case. This includes details about the time, location, and circumstances surrounding the accident. The report typically includes the names and contact information of all parties involved, as well as witnesses. This information can be critical for gathering statements and evidence. If the police officer issued citations or made determinations regarding fault, this information can be pivotal in establishing liability. This can significantly impact your ability to receive compensation.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Wisconsin Car Accident Reports
If you want to get a police report in Wisconsin to use for your car accident claim, there are several ways you can obtain crash reports:
Use the Report Retrieval Number
You can get a police report after a Wisconsin accident by using the report retrieval number provided to you by the officer who responded after the accident occurred. You’ll then be able to contact the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) with this information to order a copy of your car accident police report.
Use Your Driver’s License Number
Another way to get a Wisconsin driver report is by visiting the DOT website linked above and entering your driver’s license number. It also requires you to enter the date the crash occurred to get the police report.
Contact the Non-Emergency Number for the Police
When you’re in a serious accident, everything may seem like a blur. You may only know the name of the officer who responded to your accident. If that is all the information you have, you can call the non-emergency number for this agency and request the report. You should have other important information handy, including the date of the accident in Wisconsin and the location and vehicle identification number.
Wisconsin Law Mandates Car Accident Victims to File Police Reports
When accidents are serious, the police will usually arrive. However, they do not come to the crash scene in all cases. If authorities did not respond to your crash but it meets the criteria for reporting as discussed above, you are required to file a report of your own with the DOT within 10 days of the accident.
At Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP we understand the challenges that come with a car accident. Our experienced team can assist you in obtaining your police report and interpreting its contents. We’ll work tirelessly to advocate for your interests, whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in legal proceedings.
Don’t overlook the importance of a police report after an accident. Let us help you ensure that you have the necessary documentation to support your case and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP today to learn more about how we can assist you during this difficult time.
Schedule a free consultation with a Milwaukee personal injury lawyer at Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP to learn more about your options for seeking lost wages, medical bills, and other damages from your injuries.
