Can You File a Car Accident Claim Without a Police Report?
Car accidents happen every day on Florida roads. Whether it’s a fender bender or a serious crash, drivers often have many questions afterward. One common concern is whether you can file a car accident claim without a police report.
The short answer is yes, you can file a claim without one, but it can make things more difficult. A police report is often considered an important document after a car accident. It includes details like what happened, who was involved, and what the officer observed. But if you didn’t call the police or they didn’t come to the scene, you may still have options.
Let’s take a closer look at how it works and what you need to know if you’re in this situation.
What Is a Police Report and Why Is It Important?
A police report is an official document written by a law enforcement officer after a crash that generally includes:
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- Information about the drivers and vehicles involved
- Statements from witnesses, if any
- The officer’s opinion on who was at fault
This report can help support your side of the story when dealing with insurance companies or in court. Insurance companies often rely on the police report to decide who is responsible and how much to pay. However, Florida law does not require you to have a police report to file a car accident claim. It just helps make your case stronger.
Filing a Car Accident Claim Without a Police Report
If there’s no police report, you can still file a claim with your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance.
You’ll need to provide other types of evidence to support your case, such as:
- Photos or videos of the accident scene
- Medical records that show your injuries
- Witness statements
- A copy of the Driver Exchange of Information form, if you completed one
You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Let them know there was no police report and provide the information you do have.
In Florida, personal injury protection (PIP) insurance usually covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. You typically must seek medical treatment within 14 days to receive PIP benefits. Even without a police report, PIP coverage can help pay for emergency care, doctor visits, and lost wages.
Proving Fault Without a Police Report
If you are trying to file a claim against the other driver, you’ll need to prove they were at fault. A police report often supports this, but it’s not the only way to show fault.
Other helpful evidence includes:
- Dashcam footage
- Vehicle damage reports
- Witness statements
- Traffic or surveillance camera video
Keep in mind that insurance companies may try to deny your claim or reduce your payment if there is no police report. This is where having strong evidence—and possibly a lawyer—can help.
Can a Police Report Be Created Later?
Sometimes, a police report can be filed later if you contact law enforcement after the crash. This may not be as strong as a report made right after the accident, but it may be better than having nothing.
Also, Florida drivers involved in minor accidents must submit a Driver Self-Report of Traffic Crash within 10 days if the police were not called. You can complete this online through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website. Submitting this report shows that you took the right steps and helps create a record of the accident.
Contact Our Jacksonville Car Accident Lawyers at Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers After a Crash
While having a police report can make the claims process smoother, it is not a requirement for filing a car accident claim in Florida. You can still seek compensation through your insurance or from the at-fault driver.
If you’ve been hurt and don’t have a police report, don’t give up. With the right evidence and legal support, you can still get the help you need. Contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167
