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After a car accident, everything may feel chaotic, leaving you wondering what the next right step is. Your first immediate move should be to call 911. This does more than just take care of any medical emergencies; it involves the police so they can create an official report of the collision. The police report is a critical piece of evidence that can greatly influence the outcome of your car accident claim by:
At The Horwitz Law Group, our Chicago car accident lawyers understand the importance of the police report in any accident claim. We use it intentionally to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
A police report is typically a comprehensive document. After your call, the responding officer records key information about the incident, which generally includes:
This collection of facts provides a detailed snapshot of the event. It is often the first and most objective record of what happened.
One of the most valuable aspects of a police report can be its neutrality. The investigating officer is a trained professional whose job is to document the facts as they observe them, so the unbiased perspective they provide can be extremely persuasive. Insurance adjusters often rely on the police report as a primary source to understand the accident. The report can therefore be instrumental in helping establish liability early in the claims process.
While a police report is influential, it is not legally binding. An officer’s conclusion about fault is their opinion and can be challenged in court. Sometimes reports contain errors or are based on incomplete information.
However, the report nonetheless remains a powerful piece of evidence. It can support your version of events and strengthen your claim, as insurance companies may be more inclined to offer a fair settlement when the police report clearly supports your case. Our trial experience at The Horwitz Law Group means we know how to leverage this evidence and encourage insurance companies to negotiate seriously.
If you have been injured in a car accident, the police report is a vital document to support your case. The dedicated Chicago personal injury lawyers at The Horwitz Law Group can help you obtain it and use it to build a strong case for the compensation you are owed. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options after an accident.
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