Common Questions about Atlanta Auto Accident Reports

When an individual is injured in a motor vehicle collision, actions taken in the immediate aftermath of the collision can significantly impact the outcome of a personal injury claim. Many personal injury victims involved in Atlanta traffic crashes decide that there is no reason to contact the Atlanta police to report the crash. While this decision may seem appropriate when there is limited damage and no obvious injury, this choice also means that investigations are not conducted so Atlanta Auto Accident Reports cannot be prepared by an officer.

Since car accident victims typically experience anxiety and pain, minor symptoms that might be associated with significant injuries can go unnoticed. If symptoms later appear, there may be no record of physical evidence, vehicle damage, road and traffic condition or viable way to locate people that witnessed or caused the crash. Our car accident lawyers recognize the importance of Atlanta Auto Accident Reports so we have provided answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about these valuable forms of evidence in personal injury lawsuits.

How do I obtain the law enforcement report that was prepared by the police officer?

While we obtain them on behalf of our clients as part of our investigation and handling a case, if you want to get a copy on your own the easiest way to obtain Atlanta Auto Accident Reports prepared by the Atlanta Police Department is to order them on the web at www.BuyCrash.com. The investigating police officer will usually provide a card that will include the accident report number so you should request this number if the offer does not provide it without being asked. The Atlanta Police Department also will furnish the report if you pick it up in person. Either approach will entail a small fee to obtain the report, which will generally be available within a few days after the crash. The process generally will go more smoothly if you obtain the name and number of the investigating officer so that you can check on the status of the report.

How important is the information contained in the traffic collision report?

The police report generally constitutes some persuasive evidence in terms of photos of the accident scene/or vehicle damage, witness statements, measurement of skid marks and specifics in terms of the position of the motor vehicles. Although our Atlanta car crash attorneys typically conduct an independent investigation, the law enforcement report provides the best record of evidence gathered at the scene of the collision. However, it is important to note that the officer's conclusion, or the fact that a ticket was issued, is not considered conclusive on the issue of civil liability for damages. And despite police officer's best efforts- they rarely actually see the accident happen, so they are just doing the best they can to try to figure out what happened.

What if the other party simply wants to exchange driver's license and auto insurance information?

While this is permissible when the traffic collision does not cause injury or vehicle damage of $500 or more, it is not necessarily advisable. Whiplash and other types of injuries will not necessarily manifest immediate significant signs and symptoms. If later diagnostic evaluation reveals serious medical issues, the traffic accident victim may face significant bills for medical care, lost wages and other forms of tangible and intangible loss. When the only information that the crash victim has from the collision is the other driver's insurance and license information, this can make it very difficult to pursue a personal injury claim.

Put Our Law Firm's Over 39 Years Experience to Work For You!

If you have questions about Atlanta Auto Accident Reports, Montlick & Associates, Georgia Auto Accident Lawyers have have been representing injury victims for over thirty years throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast, including but not limited to all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.