Why Do I Need A North Carolina Accident Report?
Why Do I Need An Accident Report?
Regardless of how mild or severe it may be, any car accident can be a scary and challenging event to process. This is particularly true if you have suffered injuries or property damages in an accident. One of the best things you can do after being involved in a car accident in the state of North Carolina is securing a copy of your official North Carolina accident report.
Not only is this report a good document for you to have on file for your own records, but it can be a very helpful tool to you if you should file a claim for insurance benefits or pursue compensation for your injuries or property damages.
Requirements for Obtaining a North Carolina Traffic Crash Report
Whether you were involved in a serious car crash or a more mild fender bender, you should always contact local law enforcement to file a report of the accident. In some cases, you are legally required to report an accident. According to NC Motor Vehicles § 20-166.1 and NC Motor Vehicles § 20-166, you are required by law to report any accident which:
- Resulted in any injury or death
- Resulted in $1,000 or more of apparent property damage to any one vehicle
- Occurred in a city which requires you to report all accidents
- One person’s insurance requires you to report
Common Questions About the North Carolina Traffic Crash Report
While you are not required to provide a copy of your accident report to begin the claims process, many insurance providers and attorneys will request a copy. It is far more difficult for them to establish fault and determine causation for the accident without a report, which may have a negative impact on your expected settlement or future monthly rates.
When you’re able, you should always call local law enforcement to the scene of the accident, as they will be able to provide the clearest and least biased account of the accident in their report.
If you were unable to call local law enforcement at the time of the crash, you can report the accident yourself, although reports filed by officers tend to hold greater weight with attorneys and insurance providers.
Although you can request a copy of your report at any time, they are generally made available approximately ten days from the date of the accident.
In the state of North Carolina, it costs $5.50 to request a copy of your crash report with the state DMV. With us, you can access a FREE copy of your official North Carolina accident report today from the comfort of your own home. Click HERE to get started!
Your North Carolina Crash Report and the Insurance Company
Because your crash report contains all of the details of the accident, it is a very helpful resource to have throughout the claims process. Your insurance adjuster will use your official report to determine what kind of settlement you are owed.
Without a copy of your report, it is far more difficult for the adjuster to determine your settlement. This can result in a lower settlement, and in some cases, higher monthly rates.
We’re here to provide you with access to a FREE copy of your official North Carolina accident report from the comfort of your own home. Just fill out our easy, 2-minute online questionnaire to get started. Click HERE to begin!
