An Insight from The Majlessi Law Firm – Experienced Los Angeles Car Accident & Personal Injury Attorneys

Understanding the Role of a Police Accident Report

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, you may wonder whether you need a police report to pursue an insurance claim or file a lawsuit. The truth is that a police accident report is not determinative of fault and is not admissible as evidence at trial in California personal injury cases. However, these reports often contain valuable information that can assist claim adjusters, attorneys, and courts in understanding the circumstances of a collision.

What Information Does a Police Report Contain?

A well-prepared traffic accident report may include:

• Names and contact details of drivers, passengers, and witnesses
• Statements from parties and independent witnesses
• Descriptions of vehicle damage and accident scene details
• Diagrams, photographs, or officer observations
• Information about injuries and whether an ambulance was called
• Insurance and driver’s license details
• Initial police assessment of fault or traffic violations

While these details are not binding in court, they often shape how insurance companies evaluate car accident claims.

Limits of a Police Report in California Courts

It is important to understand that in California, a police report is hearsay and cannot be used as direct evidence in a personal injury trial. Judges and juries make determinations of liability based on testimony, physical evidence, and expert analysis – not on police conclusions. Even if the report assigns fault to you, that does not prevent your attorney from building a strong case to prove otherwise.

Why Insurance Companies Rely on Police Reports

Insurance adjusters often review police accident reports when deciding whether to settle claims. These reports help establish:

• The basic facts of the collision
• Whether drivers were cited for traffic violations
• Witness accounts supporting one side’s version of events
• Preliminary injury information

However, if the injuries are catastrophic or facts are disputed, insurers may look beyond the report, requiring medical evidence, expert testimony, and aggressive legal advocacy.

How The Majlessi Law Firm Can Help

At The Majlessi Law Firm, we have represented thousands of car accident victims – including cases where the police report wrongly assigned fault at the scene. Our attorneys know how to challenge inaccurate findings, gather additional evidence, and present your case effectively to insurance companies and, if necessary, to a jury.

Even if the report is unfavorable, you still have the right to pursue justice in court. We will guide you through the claims process, negotiate on your behalf, and litigate aggressively to secure maximum compensation.

Do You Need a Police Report to File a Claim?

No — you can file an insurance claim or lawsuit without a police report. But having one can:

• Provide helpful background for attorneys and insurance adjusters
• Preserve details that might otherwise be lost
• Strengthen your credibility if witnesses or evidence are contested

Remember, while useful, a police report is not the final word on your case. The evidence your attorney develops will ultimately drive the outcome.