Generally, you have to report car accidents to the police if the collision results in injuries, a death, or significant property damage. South Dakota requires all motorists involved in collisions to report crashes as quickly as possible.
Once you notify the police about the accident, they will write up an accident report. This report can play a critical role in your compensation claim. A Sioux Falls car accident lawyer can help you better understand the significance of a police report and how it will impact your ability to recover compensation from the liable party.
Do You Need to Call the Police After a Car Accident?
You need to report most car accidents to the police in South Dakota. Our state expects any motorist involved in a crash that results in injuries, property damage, or death to notify law enforcement of the accident by the fastest means of communication possible.
The police can file an official report once they arrive at the scene and take statements from the involved parties.
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Does a Police Report Matter After a Crash?
The information contained in a police report can help a Sioux Falls personal injury lawyer build a claim to help you recover compensation after a motor vehicle accident. These reports may contain official information about:
- Where the accident occurred
- The time of the accident
- The possible causes of the collision
- Every individual involved in the crash
All of this information can support your story of events and, therefore, strengthen your claim for fair compensation.
If you do not notify the police about an accident, the other party could try to claim that the crash never occurred. The liable party could also put their word against yours if you do not have an official report from the police to back up what happened.
You do have to file a police report after a car accident in most cases, and taking this step can improve your chances of getting the money you need to cover your losses and move forward.
Other Forms of Evidence Matter in Car Crash Claims
While a police report can be a critical piece of building your case, your lawyer does not rely solely on this document when pursuing compensation after a crash. There is a variety of additional evidence that can help support your claim, including:
- Official statements from any eyewitnesses
- Physical evidence from the scene of the crash
- Electronic evidence, like surveillance camera footage
The more evidence your attorney can collect, the higher your chances of securing fair compensation. Hiring a lawyer immediately after a crash will put them in a better position to gather all relevant evidence and help you get the money you need and deserve.
What Else Do You Do After a Car Accident?
In addition to filing a police report, one of the most important steps to take after an accident is to seek immediate medical care. Getting treatment after a collision can demonstrate that the crash caused your injuries, making it easier for you to get compensation for your medical expenses.
If you delay treatment, the at-fault driver could try to argue that something else caused the injury. After reporting the accident and seeking medical care, your attorney will verify available insurance coverage. Confirming insurance early allows our team to ensure there are resources available to pursue compensation on your behalf before moving your case forward.
You should also contact a lawyer promptly to protect your rights and ensure the next steps are taken properly. A lawyer can answer any questions you have, take charge of the legal process, and ensure that you take all necessary steps to begin your personal injury claim and meet all applicable deadlines.
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Compensation Available After Your Car Accident
Notifying the police about your crash and hiring a car accident attorney can help you get the money you need to cover all your losses. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for compensation to pay for your medical expenses, including your:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Time in the hospital
- Medications
- Physical therapy appointments
In addition to these damages, you may also receive compensation for your lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property repairs. You may also qualify for compensation for permanent impairment or disfigurement if your injuries cause lasting disability or scarring.
Your attorney can track all these losses to determine a fair value for your legal claim.
How Do You Receive Compensation After a Collision?
When pursuing compensation after an accident, you may receive the funds you need to recover through a settlement from the insurance company that represents the at-fault party. An attorney can handle settlement negotiations on your behalf to help ensure a favorable deal.
In some cases, the insurance company will refuse to negotiate. We prepare every case for trial, ready to file a lawsuit against the liable party if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement.
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Talk to Us After a Car Accident in South Dakota
Do you have to file a police report after a car accident? Generally, you need to tell the police about any collision causing property damage, injuries, or death. At Hoy Law, we’re here to help. Discuss all the steps you need to take after a crash with our professional team.
With over 150 years of combined experience, we prepare every case for trial and know how to protect your rights for the best outcome. We guide you through securing fair compensation for your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent impairment or disfigurement. Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation to let us handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.
**Disclaimer: The information provided herein does not constitute legal advice and is for general informational purposes only. For guidance specific to your situation, please contact our office directly.
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