When you are filing a claim after a car accident in Virginia, there are several steps that you will need to take. One of the most important is gathering all pieces of evidence related to the collision, such as your medical records, witness statements, and the car accident report.
Car accident reports contain vital information that you can use to corroborate your version of events and help prove your right to compensation in an insurance claim or civil lawsuit. Here is what you need to know about acquiring a car accident report in Virginia. For additional assistance, consider contacting an experienced Roanoke car accident attorney.
What Is the Car Accident Crash Report?
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues crash reports after someone is involved in a traffic accident. If you were involved in the crash or are an authorized representative of someone who was, the DMV will release the complete report to you upon request.
The crash report serves as an official record of the accident, providing an unbiased account of what transpired. Insurance companies and legal professionals often rely on this document to determine liability and assess the extent of damages in a car accident claim. This document contains important details about the crash, such as:
- The date, time, and location of the incident
- The names of the parties involved
- A description of the damage sustained in the accident
- Any citations or arrests that were made at the scene
- The names of any witnesses who saw the accident
- The responding officers’ notes and observations
How to Request a Copy of the Car Accident Report
If you are eligible to receive a copy of the crash report, you can submit a written request or a completed Information Request Form to the DMV. You can provide the request in person, via fax at (804) 367-0390, or via mail to:
Customer Records Work Center, Room 514
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Post Office Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269
The DMV charges an $8 fee per report, which is refundable if the agency is unable to locate the document. You can submit your payment by mail, by fax, or in person depending on which option is best for you. The DMV will then send your crash report using U.S. Postal Service first-class mail.
Why Is a Car Accident Report So Important in a Car Accident Claim?
The car accident report plays a crucial role in your claim for several reasons. First, it provides an objective account of the incident, which can help establish fault and liability. The report includes details that may be difficult to remember or prove later.
Additionally, the report often contains the responding officer’s observations and conclusions about the accident. These opinions can carry significant weight with insurance companies and in court. The report may also include diagrams or photographs that visually represent the accident scene, further supporting your claim.
Speak to a Virginia Car Accident Lawyer at Monge & Associates Today
If you have been involved in a car accident in Virginia, Monge & Associates can help. From obtaining the police report and other forms of evidence to negotiating with defense counsel and insurers, we will protect your best interests every step of the way. Contact us today at (540) 453-7765 or toll-free at (888) 890-4058 to get in touch with our Virginia car accident lawyers.