What Steps to Take If Police Refuse to File a Car Accident Report

Car accidents can be traumatic. After an accident, many people expect the police to come and write a report. This report helps explain what happened and who was at fault.

But sometimes, the police might refuse to file a report. When this happens, you might face problems because there is no police report to show what really took place.

If the police refuse to file a report after your accident, don’t panic. There are still important steps you can take to protect yourself. This blog will explain what you should do if the police don’t file a report after a car accident.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Be Polite

It’s frustrating if the police say they won’t file a report. But it’s important to stay calm and polite. Getting angry or arguing won’t help. Instead, ask the officer why they are not filing a report.

In some places, police only file reports if there is serious damage or injuries. Knowing the reason can help you decide what to do next.

Step 2: Take Your Own Notes and Photos

If there is no police report, you need to create your own record of what happened. Use your phone or a notebook to write down everything you remember about the accident.

Include important details like

The date, time, and location of the crash
The other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance info
A description of what happened and who you think was at fault
Weather or road conditions that might have affected the accident

Also, take clear photos of:

Damage to both cars
The accident scene (street signs, traffic lights, skid marks)
Any injuries you or others have

Photos and notes can help support your case later on.

Step 3: Collect Contact Information from Witnesses

If anyone saw the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers. Witnesses can be very helpful because they can tell what they saw.

Try to find people nearby who watched the accident happen. Even if the police don’t file a report, witness statements can back up your story.

Step 4: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Even without a police report, you still need to tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Insurance companies want to know about any crashes to start handling claims.

Give them all the information you collected—your notes, photos, and witness contacts. Be honest and clear when describing what happened.

Step 5: Consider Filing a Report Yourself

In some states or cities, you can file an accident report on your own at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or police station, even if the officer at the scene didn’t file one.

Look up the rules for your area and ask if you can submit a report. This can help make sure there is an official record of the crash.

Step 6: See a Doctor if You Are Hurt

Sometimes injuries from accidents don’t show up right away. Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to get checked by a doctor.

Medical records can prove that you were hurt in the accident. This is important if you later need to ask for money to pay for treatment.

Step 7: Talk to a Lawyer If Needed

If the police refused to file a report, and you have trouble with insurance or the other driver, it might be helpful to talk to a lawyer. A lawyer can explain your rights and help you protect yourself.

Lawyers know what to do when there is no police report and can guide you through the process of making a claim or suing if needed.

Step 8: Keep Everything Organized

Save all documents related to the accident. This includes:

Your notes and photos
Insurance papers
Medical bills and reports
Any letters or emails about the accident

Being organized will help you if you need to prove your case later.

Why Do Police Sometimes Refuse to File a Report?

Police might refuse to file a report for several reasons:

The accident is minor with no injuries or little damage.
Both drivers agree it’s a small accident and don’t want to wait for police.
The area’s police department has limited resources and only files reports for serious crashes.

Key Takeaways