In New Mexico, you can get a copy of a police report after a car accident in Albuquerque by contacting the law enforcement agency that filed it, often online or by visiting in person. You will need to know certain details about the accident, such as the date and the names of the parties involved, to access the report. You will also need to pay a fee.
Steps to Take to Obtain a Police Report in New Mexico
Wait about 10 days after your car accident for the police report to be completed and submitted by the law enforcement officer. Then, request your report from the police department in the county where your car accident occurred.
In Albuquerque and many other cities, you can now request a copy of your police accident report through the CrashDocs website. You will need to enter your police report or reference number, as well as the last name of an involved party and the date of the collision. Online crash reports cost $7.50.
You can also visit the police department in person at one of its many substation locations. You may wish to call first (505-768-2020) to make sure that your police report is available and get an estimate of your total cost ($0.50 per page in person).
The Importance of Requesting a Police Report
In New Mexico, the fault-based insurance law means that the driver or party at fault for causing a motor vehicle collision must pay. Without pertinent evidence, such as the information gathered in a police report, a car accident claim can become a “he-said, she-said” situation with conflicting versions of events.
It is important to call the police immediately following a car accident, while you are still at the scene, so that you can get a report. In New Mexico, you are legally required to report a car accident to the police if it results in injuries, deaths or more than $500 in property damage. You should report any car accident, however, because a report can be helpful for your claim.
What Is in a Police Car Accident Report?
When a law enforcement officer is sent to the scene of a car accident, he or she gathers information about the parties involved and the crash itself. These details will be put into a police accident report, which can then be accessed by those involved to help determine liability or responsibility for the wreck.
The information typically found on a police report in New Mexico includes:
- The names of the parties involved and their contact details
- Vehicle identification numbers (VINs)
- Vehicle make, model, year and license plate numbers
- The date, time and location of the accident
- A description of any property damage or injuries
- A description of the weather, traffic and road conditions at the time
- Official crash scene photographs
- Any statements gathered from witnesses or drivers
- Any citations given to either driver for legal violations
You can use your police accident report to get the information you need to file an insurance claim if you are unable to talk to the other driver directly at the scene. Once you get a copy of your report, submit it to the insurance carrier as evidence. A car insurance company can use the report to determine liability. For assistance obtaining a copy of your police report in New Mexico or using it to collect fair compensation for your injuries, contact us today at The Fine Law Firm.