Do I Need to Call the Police After an Accident in Phoenix?

You may wonder: Should I call the police after an accident in Phoenix? Even a small one? -The short answer is: Most of the time. Not every car accident is an event. If you get into an accident in a parking lot, for example, both you and the other party may walk away without injury. 

You do, in fact, need to report even your minor accidents. Once you have a police report detailing your accident, a Phoenix car accident lawyer can more easily take legal action against an allegedly liable party. Failure to report these accidents within 24 hours of them occurring can see you charged with a hit-and-run, even if you aren’t the party responsible for the accident.

When Should I Report an Accident to the Police?

You need to report a car accident to local law enforcement as soon as you can after a collision. Police officers can help you save people who might be trapped in your car or otherwise record the events that led up to your accident. The faster these teams can get on the scene, the safer everyone involved in your accident is likely to be.

Should I Report a Minor Accident to the Police?

While a minor accident may not feel monumental, letting one slide can carry serious legal consequences. You should always inform local law enforcement about an accident after it occurs, regardless of its severity. Also, keep in mind insurance companies often check police reports, and if there isn’t one, they can deny a claim with more ease. 

That said, police officers may not feel the need to come to the scene of a minor accident. If you get the go-ahead to exchange your insurance information without law enforcement present, you may do so. If you want a police report filed regarding your accident, though, you’ll need to go to your local precinct and make that request in person.

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What Is the Police Procedure After a Car Accident?

Following a car accident in Phoenix, the arrival of law enforcement can bring a sense of order to a chaotic situation. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect from the police after a crash:

Securing the Scene

The police officers’ first priority is to ensure everyone’s safety. They will work to secure the accident scene, which might involve using flares or cones to warn oncoming traffic, disabling vehicles if necessary, and providing medical assistance if there are any injuries.

Gathering Information

Once the scene is secure, the officers will begin their investigation. This typically involves collecting detailed statements from all drivers involved, as well as any witnesses who may have observed the accident. They will also request driver’s licenses, insurance information, and vehicle registration details.

Preparing a Crash Report

A police officer will compile a comprehensive crash report, documenting the accident scene in detail. This report will include information about the location of the accident, the date and time, the vehicles involved (including damage descriptions), details about drivers and insurance.

If you need to file an insurance complaint you also need to know how to get a car accident report in Phoenix. A car accident lawyer can help you understand the process and navigate the legal maze. 

What’s the Benefit of a Post-Accident Police Report?

Working with police officers in Phoenix after even a minor car accident can help you better understand the circumstances that led to your collision. Officers on the scene can help you collect evidence of liability. Similarly, should officers want to apply criminal charges to anyone on the scene, those charges can help you establish a simultaneous civil case.

Most of all, police officers who come to the scene of your accident are obligated to create an accident report detailing the events that occurred. Should you want to pursue a civil case later down the line, this police report can serve as one of your claim’s primary sources. You can later access your report through the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

That said, it may not be in your best interest to try and assign fault at the scene of your accident. Nor should you give statements regarding your position on the accident without a lawyer present. Instead, request representation as soon as possible. Our team can help you address your losses without incriminating yourself.

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Can You Face Charges for Failing to Report an Accident to the Police in Phoenix?

If you don’t report an accident to the local police department, the precinct’s response to your oversight can vary. Many Phoenix Police Department officers are reluctant to take action against someone involved in a minor accident. That, however, doesn’t mean that they won’t. You may be ticketed or otherwise face criminal charges for your refusal to communicate.

There are other reasons to reach out to law enforcement representatives after an accident, too. If you can get a police report filed regarding your case, it becomes easier for you to request compensation from an insurance provider later down the road. You can reference the applicable police report to hurry along a damage report or contest a company’s refusal to meet your claim.

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What Are the Consequences for a Hit-and-Run in Arizona?

If you do not report a car accident, the criminal charges you can face can be based on your perceived role in the collision. These charges can subsequently include failure to stop and/or hit-and-run charges.

Hit-and-runs are considered wobbler cases in Arizona. Parties accused of hit-and-run accidents can face either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the nature of the collision. This remains the case even if you face charges after failing to report a car accident within Arizona’s allotted 24 hours.

The penalties for a hit-and-run accident can include:

• Damage to a parked vehicle. 30 days in jail and up to one year of probation alongside a $750 fine.
• Non-serious injuries. Two and a half years in prison at a minimum along with the three-year loss of your driver’s license.
• Serious injury or death. Up to twelve and a half years in prison along with the ten-year loss of your driver’s license.

Jail time and license revocations are a steep price to pay for failing to make a phone call. Fortunately, you don’t have to contend with these charges on your own. An attorney can address these circumstances with you and argue to either have your charges reduced or dropped.

Do I Need to Call the Police After an Accident in Phoenix? – FAQs You Need to Know

Here are ten frequently asked questions to help you decide whether to call the police after an accident in Phoenix:

Are there any injuries?

If anyone involved in the accident is injured, calling the police is essential. They can dispatch emergency medical services and document the injuries in the crash report.

Is there significant property damage?

In Phoenix, if the total damage to all vehicles involved appears to be over $1,000, calling the police is required by law. In those cases, it is advisable to call a Phoenix car accident lawyer. 

Do you suspect a DUI?

If you believe the other driver may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, calling the police is necessary for their safety and the safety of others on the road. A Phoenix drunk driving accident lawyer can also help you pursue damages from the at-fault driver.

Is it always a good idea to call the police if you are involved in a crash?

While there’s no legal obligation to call the police for every minor fender bender, it’s generally recommended to err on the side of caution. Unexpected issues like hidden injuries or disagreements about fault can arise later.

What if the other driver wants to avoid the police?

If the other driver pressures you not to call the police, don’t be pressured. Politely explain that you’d prefer to have an official report for your records and insurance claim.

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer at No Cost Today

Even in situations where calling the police isn’t mandatory, consulting with a Phoenix personal injury lawyer can be a wise decision. An attorney can advise you on your rights, help navigate the insurance claim process, and ensure you’re treated fairly. Personal injury lawyers at Zanes Law offer free consultations. 

Remember, you are not alone in this. Following an accident, focusing on your recovery is essential. By understanding your legal options and potentially seeking professional legal guidance, you can ensure a smoother path towards getting back on your feet. Contact us today to help you understand your rights after an accident.

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