If you were injured in a car accident, getting a police report is vital. The police report is key to filing an insurance claim and pursuing any legal action. But how long does it take to get a police report after an incident?
The process for getting a police report may change depending on the type of incident. For example, car accident reports––or crash reports––take around two weeks to receive because the state has uniform reporting requirements. For other incidents, the timeline can vary with each investigation and the agency performing it.
Why Is It Important to Obtain a Police Report?
A police report is not just a formality; it is an official document detailing your incident. Every report should include the time, date, and location of the incident. It should also contain the parties’ information and the investigating officer’s description of events.
Having a detailed police report can play a major role in resolving disputes and filing insurance claims. In Mississippi, investigative reports may even serve as evidence under an exception to the hearsay rule. A police report can help establish what happened and who might be at fault.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Report After a Car Accident?
Under MS Law, law enforcement officers have six days to send their investigative report to the appropriate department. Once that agency receives the report, the department becomes responsible for sending it to DPS within six days. So it can take about 12 days for DPS to receive your report, depending on where the accident occurred.
However, it is not uncommon for the process to take several weeks. The quickest way to get your report is through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. Remember, the report is only available for 24 hours after you purchase it, so download it immediately.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Reporting a Car Accident in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, you must report a car accident if there are any injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $500.
In some cities, additional reporting requirements may apply. For example, the City of Gulfport requires drivers to report damages as low as $100. In most cases, affected parties should file a written report with the appropriate department within 10 days if damages exceed $250. Departments may request more info or witness statements if the initial report is lacking.
Given the low threshold for property damage, it’s a good idea to contact law enforcement after any car accident. Otherwise, you won’t have an official record of the incident, which is necessary for resolving disputes and filing insurance claims.
Who Should I Call to Report a Car Accident?
If your accident occurred within the limits of a city, you should contact the local police department where the accident happened. For accidents on the highway or in rural areas, contact the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP).
What Is the Mississippi Uniform Crash Report?
The Mississippi Uniform Crash Report is a standardized form that individuals and law enforcement should use to document car accidents. Consistent reporting helps maintain fairness when determining fault and assessing damages. The report is also necessary when pursuing legal action and includes:
- The details of each driver and vehicle involved;
- Information about road conditions, weather, and other factors that might have influenced the accident;
- Witness information, including personal details and statements;
- A collision diagram, or visual representation of the accident scene; and
- The officer’s assessment and description of the accident.
These components help shed light on the accident for insurance and legal purposes.
How Do I Get My Crash Report?
To get a copy of your report, you’ll need the agency, a case number, and the vehicle ID. There are several ways to request the report:
- Online. The fastest method is through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. The report costs $20 and is available for 24 hours after you purchase, so download and save it as soon as you receive access.
- By mail. You can also request the report by writing to the Driver Records Division at PO Box 958, Jackson, Mississippi, 39205. For the smoothest processing, the department recommends calling 601-987-1224 before sending your request.
- In person. If you prefer, you can visit the local law enforcement agency that handled your accident. Procedures can vary, so check with the agency beforehand for specific details on requesting the report in person.
- By phone. Some agencies allow individuals to request a copy of their incident report by calling the local department.
If you still have questions about getting a report, it is best to call the agency that responded to the incident. The agency may also have more information on how long it takes to get a police report after an incident in their jurisdiction.
Who Is Allowed to Request an Accident Report?
Only people involved in the incident may access the Mississippi Uniform Crash Report. You can request the report if you are:
- Involved in the crash,
- A representative of the estate of someone involved in the crash,
- The next of kin of someone involved in the crash,
- A legal representative of an involved party, or
- An insurer or an insurer’s representative for one of the involved parties.
These restrictions help to ensure the privacy of those involved in an accident.
What Should I Do If There Are Errors in the Report?
If you find inaccuracies in your police report, it is important to correct them. Errors can impact your insurance claim and legal proceedings.
To correct inaccuracies, you should contact the department that issued the report and request a correction. When requesting a correction, explain the errors and provide the correct details. Ensuring the report’s accuracy is crucial to avoid complications with your claim.
How Harris Law Can Assist You
The aftermath of an accident or other personal injury can be overwhelming. Complex paperwork and legal requirements can add to the stress. That’s where having the right car accident attorney comes in. Having professional help can ease some of the stress associated with your case and help find a resolution.
Harris Law Firm has over 35 years of experience helping victims injured in car accidents. Let us do the hard work for you and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us or contact us online for a free case review.
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