How to Get a Police Report for Your Head-On Collision

The police report is one of the most important documents in your head-on collision case. It contains the officer's findings about fault, witness information, and other crucial details. Here's how to obtain and use this vital evidence.

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What's in a Head-On Collision Police Report

Police reports for head-on collisions contain valuable information for your legal claim. The responding officer documents the accident scene, interviews drivers and witnesses, and often makes a determination about fault or contributing factors.

Key information typically includes both drivers' statements, witness contact information, road and weather conditions, diagram of the collision, vehicle damage descriptions, any citations issued, and the officer's preliminary fault determination.

✓Date, time, and location of collision
✓Driver and vehicle information
✓Witness names and contact information
✓Road conditions and weather
✓Collision diagram
✓Citations or violations noted
✓Officer's narrative and observations
✓Preliminary fault determination

How to Obtain Your Police Report

In Los Angeles, you can obtain police reports through the LAPD or the agency that responded to your accident. Reports are typically available within a few days to a couple weeks after the collision.

You can request reports online through the LAPD website, in person at a police station, or through a records request. There's usually a small fee. Your attorney can also obtain the report on your behalf.

✓LAPD online records request
✓In-person at police station
✓CHP records request (freeway accidents)
✓Through your attorney
✓Allow 5-10 business days for processing

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the police didn't come to my head-on collision?▼

You can file a report after the fact at the police station. While an on-scene report is more valuable, a later report still documents the accident officially. Always call 911 after a head-on collision.

What if the police report is wrong about fault?▼

Police reports aren't final determinations of fault. Your attorney can gather additional evidence (witness statements, expert analysis, video) to dispute incorrect fault findings.

Can I get the police report if I wasn't the driver?▼

Generally, accident reports are available to parties involved in the crash, their attorneys, and their insurance companies. If you were a passenger or victim, you can typically obtain the report.

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