If you’ve been in a car accident, you know how chaotic and confusing it can be. It’s important to get as much information as you can as soon as possible so that you can start the claims process. To do this, it’s important to file a California Highway Patrol (CHP) accident report as soon as possible. A CHP accident report is an official document prepared by the California Highway Patrol that details the circumstances of a traffic accident.
The CHP investigates all traffic accidents that occur on California highways, and the accident report is used to help determine liability and whether any criminal charges should be filed. It’s also helpful in the event that a personal injury claim is filed.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident in California, you can request a copy of the CHP accident report from the agency. If you need help, contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney.
How To Obtain a CHP Accident Report
If the collision occurred on a California freeway or highway, the CHP likely responded to the scene and filed a report. You can request a copy of this report by mail or in person at your local CHP office. The cost of the report depends on its length. Make sure you sign the form, submit it, and include the appropriate fee.
How Long Does It Take To Get a CHP Traffic Incident Report in California?
Generally speaking, it can take up to 10 days to receive the report. However, if there are extenuating circumstances—such as if someone was injured or killed in the accident—it may take longer.
Understanding a CHP Traffic Accident Report
It’s important to understand what will be included in the CHP report and how it could affect your personal injury claim.
The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. A Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can help you understand the different sections of your CHP collision report and how it may impact your case. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect to find in your CHP accident report.
Driver Information
The first section of the CHP will ask for general information about the drivers involved in the accident. This will include your name, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information. The other driver(s) involved in the accident will also be required to provide this same basic information.
Vehicle Information
The next section asks for specific information about the vehicles involved in the accident. This will include the make, model, and year of each vehicle, as well as any damage that resulted from the accident. Be sure to give a clear and accurate description of the damage so that it can be properly documented.
Accident Information
This section is where you’ll find details about how the accident happened. The officer who filed the report will attempt to reconstruct the events leading up to the car crash and detail what they believe occurred. They may also include information about weather conditions, road conditions, and witness statements.
Get Help Obtaining and Understanding a California Highway Patrol Report
A CHP traffic accident report may seem confusing at first glance. But with the help of a personal injury lawyer, you can better understand how this report may affect your case. Your lawyer can help you decipher what each section means and how it may play into your claim for compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get started on your case—contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA
If you were injured in an accident in Los Angeles, CA or you lost a loved one and you need legal assistance, please contact us to schedule a free consultation. One of our Los Angeles car accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers will get in touch with you soon.
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Los Angeles Office
4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 960,
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(877) 300-4535
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Office
350 S Figueroa St Suite 276
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(877) 751-8953