If you are wondering how to get a car crash report in Everett, WA, you can order a collision report through the Washington State Patrol’s Requests for Electronic Collision Records (WRECR) through the online portal.
Additionally, you can submit requests to Snohomish County by mail, phone, or in person. A car accident lawyer in Everett can work with you to navigate this process efficiently and effectively.
Why You May Need an Everett Police Crash Report
A crash report is often one of the most important documents after a car accident in Everett. Insurance companies rely heavily on these reports when determining fault and what to offer in a settlement. Without an official report, your version of events may carry less weight.
When filing a claim, particularly an injury claim after a car accident, having a police report is essential. It is considered to be an objective, professional opinion of what happened. Police officers are neutral parties and are trained to look for evidence after an accident, so their statements carry weight, particularly if there are questions about fault.
Swiftly getting a car crash report in Everett, WA, means you and your attorney have more time to check for mistakes as well as build your case. While everything you say in your statement may be true and accurate, having an official report to back it up does wonders.
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Who Investigates Car Accidents in Everett
Not all accidents in Everett are handled by the same law enforcement agency. Most crashes on city streets are investigated by the Everett Police Department, while collisions on highways such as I-5 are investigated by the Washington State Patrol. Accidents on SR-526 or SR-529 are typically handled by the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
Having this information matters because each agency stores and releases crash reports differently. Requesting a report from the wrong agency can cause delays in your case. After a collision, take note of who responded. If you are unsure, you can always ask the officer for a card with their name, badge number, and department.
Having a personal injury lawyer in Everett working on your behalf will help to ensure that the correct records are obtained and that they are obtained efficiently. The court system can be complex, so having a local attorney is essential.
When a Crash Report Is Filed in Washington
Washington law requires law enforcement to file a crash report when an accident results in injury, death, or significant property damage. Reports are also typically created for DUI cases, hit-and-runs, and collisions involving commercial vehicles. If you were involved in a truck accident, a truck accident lawyer in Everett may be able to help.
You may not need to report collision damage if there was less than $1000 in damages or no injuries, unless an officer is requested. In those cases, drivers may need to collect their own evidence to report to insurance with the help of an attorney.
Understanding whether a report should exist helps set realistic expectations and prevents unnecessary follow-ups. Even if a report is not required by law, you can still request an officer to come to the scene, and by default, they will generally fill out and file a report.
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Ways to Request a Car Crash Report in Everett
There are multiple ways to request a crash report, depending on which agency handled the accident. If you are unsure of where to try first, the agency should be listed on the business card of the responding officer. Generally, they will hand you a card before leaving the scene.
Requesting a Report from the Everett Police Department
Reports handled by the Everett Police Department can often be requested through their records division, either online, by mail, or in person.
Using the Washington State Patrol’s Online System
Most WSP crash reports are available through the state’s online collision report portal, WRECR. This is typically the most efficient way to get your car crash report if the accident occurred on a highway or freeway, as state troopers generally handle those.
In-person vs. Online Requests
Online requests are typically faster, while in-person requests may be helpful if you need assistance locating the correct report. Additionally, the court clerks can be helpful if you have questions.
Fees and Payment Methods
Most crash reports require a small fee, which varies by agency and request method. This can generally be paid online or in person when requesting the documents.
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What Information Helps You Find the Right Report Faster
Having accurate information can significantly speed up the process of getting your car crash report in Everett, WA. It allows you to be more efficient in your search, as you will not have to sift through pages of reports to find yours. If you are requesting over the phone or in person, it helps the clerk to quickly identify your claim. Helpful details include:
- The date and approximate time of the crash
- Street names, intersections, or highway mile markers
- Names of drivers or passengers
- Case or incident number
- Vehicle license plate numbers
The more precise the information, the easier it is to locate the correct report. This can help speed up your claim as you and your attorney won’t be spending time attempting to locate files and can instead put that energy into building your case. This applies to motorcycle collisions as well, for which you can contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Everett.
Who is Allowed to Get a Crash Report in Washington
Access to crash reports is limited to protect the privacy of those involved. Generally, reports are available to drivers involved in the accident, vehicle owners, passengers, insurance companies, and attorneys representing involved parties.
Members of the public who are not connected to the crash are typically restricted from accessing full reports. If you are requesting a report on behalf of someone else, you may need written authorization. The most efficient way to do this is to go through the involved person’s attorney, who can then get a copy of the crash report.
There are exceptions where third parties may have access to crash reports. With special permissions, members of the press may have access to records. Additionally, if an involved party is a minor, then their parent or guardian may have access to the records.
Let Siegfried & Jensen Get to Work for You
Navigating the courts and records systems is not only time-consuming but confusing. You can waste time, energy, and money only to find out you’ve been looking in the wrong place.
At Siegfried & Jensen, we know how to efficiently gather documentation, allowing you to spend your energy recovering from your accident. Call today to schedule your free consultation and let us take it from there.
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