How To Get a Police Report for a Car Accident in Kentucky
Serious car crashes and minor fender benders must be reported to police if they cause injuries, death, or over $500 in property damage. The responding officer’s incident report will outline important information from the accident, which is handy if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit. Here’s how to get a police report for a car accident in Kentucky to use as evidence.
Submit an Electronic Accident Report Request Form
You can locate and request a Kentucky collision report online through a secure portal. This information isn’t available to the public, though involved parties like victims, their attorneys, and insurers can request it.
You’ll have to confirm that the traffic accident documentation pertains to you. Search the portal by entering either the date of the incident, the report number, or the driver’s last name.
It may take a few days for officials to respond to your request and make Kentucky State Police records available. Once it’s available, you must pay $10 via a major debit or credit card.
How To Get a Police Report for a Car Accident in Kentucky in Person
For a physical police report retrieval in KY, you should contact the local police department that responded to the scene. Call or email the department inquiring about the document. As with an online request, you may need to provide the following information:
- The report number
- Date of the accident
- Your last name (assuming you’re the crash victim)
Law enforcement will also have to collect payment before you can receive a physical copy of their report.
Mail a Written Request to the Kentucky State Police
If you’re wondering how to get a police report for a car accident in Kentucky, you can contact the state police by mail. Send a stamped envelope to the Kentucky State Police Headquarters and include the following:
- A check payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer
- Your name
- The date of your car accident
- The location of the accident
You should expect to receive your crash report from KSP after they approve your mailed request.
Why Police Reports Matter for Car Accident Lawsuits
When you’re injured in a car accident and believe the other party to be at fault, you can pursue legal action and seek financial compensation from the at-fault party. The accompanying police report is important for supporting your claim. These documents usually include the following information:
- The names of involved motorists and passengers
- Witness statements
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Insurance information of both drivers
- The conditions at the scene, such as inclement weather or road work
- Property damage caused by the crash
Officers may detail their interpretation of the accident and reveal a likely cause. Personal injury lawyers use this information to strengthen their clients’ cases.
Follow These Steps After a Kentucky Car Accident
Being involved in a car crash can be overwhelming and leave you wondering how to proceed. Follow these steps for your safety and peace of mind:
- Call 911: You’ll want the police on site to respond to the accident and create a report.
- Seek medical treatment: Treat any injuries sustained in the collision quickly.
- Consult a lawyer: Reach out to an attorney about filing a personal injury suit. They’ll advise you on the legal process and gather supporting evidence.
Choose Regard Law Group, PLLC – Lexington’s Trusted Personal Injury Law Firm
Knowing how to get a police report for a car accident in Kentucky is essential for anyone filing a lawsuit after a collision. Contact Regard Law Group, PLLC, online or at 859-281-1318 to discuss your case and schedule a consultation.