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One of the first things you should do after a car accident is file a police report. This document is crucial evidence that insurance companies, lawyers, and courts rely on to determine fault and assess the value of a personal injury claim.
But what happens if you notice mistakes in your police report? Even minor errors can complicate your case and impact the compensation you receive. Learn how to correct mistakes in a police report so you have an accurate document and how our Syracuse car accident lawyers at Catalano Law can help throughout the claims process.
Why Is a Police Report So Important?
A police report is important evidence in personal injury claims. The report provides an official account of the accident, documenting details like who was involved, the time and location, and witness statements. This helps insurance companies and legal professionals determine fault and assess damages, making it a valuable document for your claim.
A detailed police report strengthens your case by offering a clear, unbiased record. Without it, proving liability and damages against the other driver can be more challenging after a collision.
Common Mistakes Found in Police Reports
Mistakes in police reports are not uncommon. Police officers are human, and errors can happen, especially when juggling multiple tasks or dealing with chaotic accident scenes. As a result, the common errors below might appear in a police report.
| Error Type | Description | Example |
| Incorrect Personal Information | This includes misspelled names, wrong contact information, or incorrect vehicle details. Even minor errors, like a wrong address, can cause complications. | The driver’s last name is recorded as “Smith” instead of “Smyth.” |
| Misstated Facts About the Accident | Officers may misinterpret details such as weather conditions or vehicle damage, leading to incorrect facts in the report. | The report indicates clear skies, but it was raining during the accident. |
| Incorrect Statements Attributed to Witnesses or Involved Parties | Witnesses or involved parties might be misquoted due to misunderstandings or assumptions by the officer. | The report claims you said “I wasn’t paying attention” when you said “I had the right of way.” |
| Dubious Interpretations of What Happened | Officers may include their own opinion or interpretation of events, sometimes differing from what happened. | The officer notes that the accident happened because you were speeding, but it was caused by the other party texting while driving. |
How to Correct Mistakes in a Police Report
If you spot an error in your police report, act quickly to address it and obtain an updated report to share with your insurer. Here’s what you need to do:
- Contact the Officer Who Prepared the Report: Reach out to the law enforcement officer who filed the report. Politely explain the mistake and request a correction, clearly stating what’s incorrect and providing the correct information. You can usually find the officer’s contact information at the bottom of the report.
- Provide Evidence Supporting the Correction: When requesting a correction, provide evidence to support your claim, such as witness statements, photos of the accident scene, or footage from dashcams or nearby surveillance cameras. Clear evidence increases the likelihood that the officer will update the report.
- Request an Addendum if Necessary: Sometimes, officers do not change the original report but add a supplement or addendum detailing your corrections. While this may not entirely replace the incorrect information, it will provide a more accurate account of the accident for anyone reviewing the report.
- Act Quickly: Once insurers see the report, they may assign fault based on the initial details. Delaying corrections can mean the updated information doesn’t reach them in time. Acting quickly allows insurers to consider accurate details and evidence during their investigation for a fair outcome.
- Keep Detailed Records: Keep copies of all your communications with the police department and new documents or evidence you provide. These records could be crucial if the dispute over the report’s accuracy escalates or if you need to take legal action.
Consult a Syracuse Car Accident Attorney to Protect Your Rights
A simple mistake in a police report shouldn’t cost you the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been in a car accident in Central New York and notice inaccuracies in your police report, speak with our experienced team at Catalano Law.
We’ll review your case, help correct errors, and advocate for the fair settlement you’re entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation to protect your right to financial support after a crash.
