Generally, you can request a police report in New York by submitting a request form to the New York City Police Department (NYPD) online or by mail. In traffic accident cases, you also have the option of dropping off your request form in person at an NYPD precinct. You must do this within 30 days of your accident.
A police report can serve as valuable evidence in a personal injury case. This document outlines the time, date, and location of your collision––along with other vital details. When you partner with an injury lawyer, they can request a copy of the police report and gather other information to supplement your claim.
Requesting a Copy of Your New York Police Report
Per the NYPD, the types of police reports you can request include:
- Verification of Incident: This report pertains to criminal activity and lost property reports. You may request this report if you suffered injuries in a drunk driving accident or a hit-and-run.
- Aided Records: Aided Records document when a party suffers injuries in a non-collision, and the NYPD provides help. You may request a copy of this report if you suffered injuries in a slip and fall.
- Motor Vehicle Collision Reports: You can request a copy of a police report after a car accident within 30 days of the collision. As noted, the NYPD states that you can request a collision report online, by mail, or at the precinct where the accident occurred.
Police Reports Generally Contain the Following Information
Police reports typically include information about when the accident occurred and who was involved. For example, in a car accident case, the police report might contain information like:
- The names and addresses of anyone involved in the accident, including witnesses
- The insurance information of those involved in the accident
- Whether the police charged anyone with a crime
- A drawn diagram of how the accident happened
- Road and weather conditions during the time of the accident (if applicable)
- Notes from the attending police officer
The police report just tells one part of a bigger story. When you partner with a lawyer, they may find and use other information to supplement your claim or lawsuit.
Other Kinds of Evidence That Could Benefit Your Case in New York
Aside from the police report, supporting information in your accident case may comprise:
- Your medical records: To secure compensation, you must show that the accident caused you to suffer injuries. Your medical records can outline the treatment you required, along with other health-related details.
- Photos from the accident scene: If you took any photos of the accident scene and your injuries, share these items with your lawyer. They can paint a picture of what happened and how the accident hurt you.
- Witness statements: Anyone who saw your accident might have valuable information about how it occurred.
- Your damage-related documentation. You need evidence that supports the cost of your damages. This may include your medical bills, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, and estimates.
- Security camera footage. Many public places have cameras. If a camera recorded your accident, this could serve as compelling evidence when negotiating with insurers.
You don’t have to worry about evidence collection in the aftermath of a serious accident. Your lawyer can find the necessary information to advance your case.
An Attorney Can Investigate Your Accident and Seek Financial Recovery
An attorney can learn the details of your accident and build a case that seeks compensation for your losses. They can do this by:
- Filing your case within any relevant deadlines
- Investigating your accident’s cause
- Consulting with field experts
- Proving the other party’s role in your accident
- Communicating with the involved parties
- Protecting you from bad faith insurance practices
- Calculating your losses
- Managing your case’s paperwork
- Preventing any pitfalls from threatening your case
- Advising you on your next steps
Many injury lawyers in New York work on a contingency-fee-basis. In this arrangement, injured people pay nothing to retain legal help. There are no hourly rates, retainers, or other related charges. In this arrangement, you could afford legal help regardless of your financial standing or circumstances.
Contact Shulman & Hill to Learn More About Requesting a Police Report in NY
After an accident, reach out to Shulman & Hill. We are New York’s premier personal injury law firm, and we can give your case personalized attention. We can also work with you to request your New York police report. We have locations all around the city.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re prepared to handle your case, no matter how complex it may seem. Call us today at (866) 880-0645 to get started with a free consultation.
