Accidents, whether minor or severe, can be overwhelming and stressful. Knowing when and how to report an accident to the police is crucial, especially if you plan to file a claim for injuries or damages later on. What should you know?
When do you have to report a car accident?
In many cases, the law requires you to report an accident. You must report any accident that results in:
- Injuries: In both Indiana and Kentucky, drivers must report any accident that results in an injury.
- Death: Both Kentucky and Indiana law require drivers to report all fatal collisions to the police.
- Property damage of a certain amount: If the accident causes damage to property, you must report it if the damage is over a certain amount. In Indiana, report if damage is over $1,000. In Kentucky, report if damage is $500 or more.
Why is it important to report?
Reporting an accident is not just a legal requirement. It is also an important way to protect yourself after a crash:
- Documentation: A police report is an official record of what happened. It can help you when you file insurance claims or if you need to take legal action.
- Evidence: Police reports include details like witness statements and photos. These can help prove what happened.
- Legal protection: Reporting an accident gives you legal protection. It provides a third-party account of the incident, which is helpful if there are arguments about who is at fault. Reporting the accident also offers additional documentation if the property damage or injuries are worse than you initially believe.
- Insurance requirements: Insurance companies often need a police report to handle claims. Without it, your claim might be delayed or denied. Delayed reporting can also lead to questions about the validity of your claim and may affect your ability to recover damages.
Reporting accidents protects your rights
Knowing how and when to report car accident in Indiana and Kentucky helps you meet legal requirements and protect your rights. It also helps you get compensation for any injuries or damages.