Why Do I Need A Colorado Accident Report?
Why Do I Need An Accident Report?
Have you been involved in a car accident in the state of Colorado? If so, you’re well-acquainted with the challenges that await in the days and weeks after a car accident. One important step you can take after being involved in a car accident is securing a copy of your official Colorado accident report.
This document contains all of the details surrounding the accident and is one of the first things an automobile accident attorney or insurance adjuster will request when you begin the claims process, as it can be extremely helpful in determining causation and establishing fault.
Requirements for Obtaining a Colorado Traffic Crash Report
It’s always a good idea to call a local law enforcement officer to the scene after a car accident, regardless of how mild or severe it may seem, as they will be able to file your accident report as efficiently as possible. In some cases, you are required by law to report an accident. According to Colorado Motor Vehicle Code §42-4-1606, you are required to call a police officer to report an accident when:
- Anyone involved is injured or dies
- Any property damage occurs
- The other party is rendered unable to exchange information
Common Questions About the Colorado Traffic Crash Report
Although you do not need to provide an accident report to begin the claims process, it will be much more difficult for an automobile accident attorney or insurance adjuster to establish fault and determine causation if they do not have a copy of your report. This can have a significant impact on the settlement you receive.
When you’re able, you should always do what you can to contact local law enforcement after an accident. This ensures your accident will be recorded and reported according to state protocol.
If an officer is not called to the scene, you will be able to report the accident yourself. Many insurance adjusters and attorneys, however, will prefer reports filed by law enforcement officers, as they provide a clearer and less biased account of the accident.
While you can request a copy of your accident report at any time, it typically takes approximately ten business days from the date of the crash for your report to become available.
The Colorado Department of Public Safety charges a $10.00 processing fee to recover a copy of your official Colorado accident report. With us, you can access your report for FREE from the comfort of your own home today. Click HERE to get started!
Your Colorado Accident Report and the Insurance Company
If you wish to claim insurance benefits after being involved in an automobile accident, you will have to file a claim with your insurance provider. From there, your insurance adjuster will likely request a copy of your official Colorado accident report.
This report will help them determine what kind of settlement you are owed. It will be much more difficult for them to establish causation and determine fault without a copy of your report. In some cases, this can lead to a lower settlement and even higher monthly rates.
