Should I Get an Accident Report After a Pedestrian Accident in Ohio?

Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality. In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, you may wonder if you should get a police report. The short answer is yes, and below we explain why filing an accident report after a pedestrian accident is crucial.

When Should You Get an Accident Report?

Following a pedestrian accident in Ohio, obtaining a police report should be one of your top priorities. In Ohio, you must report a car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage above $1,000. So, if you were hurt in a pedestrian accident, you should report the accident.  If you are unsure whether your case meets this threshold, it is better to err on the side of caution and report it. Calling the police ensures that the facts of the accident are officially documented, as this can greatly affect the outcome of your case. If the police are unable to respond at the scene, you can file a report at the nearest police station.

Why Are Accident Reports Important in Pedestrian Accident Claims?

Accident reports are often invaluable in pedestrian accident cases. They are not only critical for establishing fault, but they also play a major role in insurance settlements and legal proceedings. Here are four reasons why you should get an accident report for your pedestrian accident claim.

• Police Reports Serve as Primary Evidence

Police reports are often considered primary evidence from which insurance companies and attorneys refer during settlements or lawsuits. A police report contains critical details recorded by law enforcement officers, such as:

• The location and time of the accident
• Witness statements
• Physical evidence like skid marks or debris
• Diagrams of the scene
• Preliminary assessments of fault
• Establishing Negligence

Negligence is a key factor when it comes to pedestrian accident claims. The details in the accident report, such as whether the driver violated traffic laws or acted recklessly, can help establish negligence and assign fault. This can help prove your case especially in comparative fault states like Ohio, where liability may affect the compensation you receive.

• Insurance Companies Rely on Police Reports

Insurance adjusters often use police reports as a foundation for evaluating claims. While an accident report can be subject to misinterpretation, it provides a factual summary of what happened, which can make it easier to negotiate a fair settlement. Without one, convincing the insurance adjuster that it was the other party’s fault can be challenging.

• Impact on Legal Proceedings

While most cases settle at the negotiation stage, some proceed to trial. If this happens, an accident report can be used as an objective record of the accident. Accident reports are often considered credible evidence, significantly influencing the jury’s final decision.

Contact a Columbus Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact our car accident attorneys at Brian G. Miller today and we can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your interests. Reach out today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-5502.11