By Crash News Writer 
When you’re involved in a vehicle collision or another unexpected incident, understanding the paperwork that follows can be confusing. Two of the most common documents you’ll hear about are the accident report and the police report. While they sound similar, they serve different purposes, are completed by different people, and play unique roles in insurance and legal matters. Knowing the difference between accident report vs police report can make a big impact on your ability to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
What Is an Accident Report?
An accident report is typically a document filled out by the people involved in an incident—such as a car crash, workplace injury, or slip and fall. It provides details about what happened, where, and who was involved. In many cases, the report is used by employers, property owners, or insurance companies to document the event.
For example, if you’re in a car crash, you might fill out an accident report to provide your insurance company with details like the date, location, and damages. It’s a personal record of the event, often written shortly after it happens to capture fresh details.
These reports are important because they establish a timeline and record your perspective of the event. They help ensure that no crucial information is forgotten later when you need to file an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury case.
What Is a Police Report?
A police report, on the other hand, is an official document created by law enforcement officers. After responding to an accident scene, the officer gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and records their findings in the report. This includes who may be at fault, the conditions of the road, weather details, and any violations of law that contributed to the incident.
A police report carries significant weight because it’s an unbiased, third-party account of the event. Insurance companies and courts often rely on these reports to help determine liability. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), police documentation is one of the most trusted sources for reconstructing accident events.
The Key Differences Between an Accident Report and a Police Report
The biggest difference in the accident report vs police report debate lies in who completes each and how they’re used.
An accident report is created by those directly involved in the event, while a police report is generated by a law enforcement officer. An accident report reflects your account, while a police report provides an objective summary supported by evidence and observations.
Police reports may include citations or even mention criminal charges, while accident reports typically don’t assign blame. For insurance and legal purposes, the police report often carries more authority.
Why Both Reports Matter After a Crash
Having both an accident report and a police report can significantly strengthen your claim if you’re pursuing compensation. Your personal account ensures that no key details are overlooked, while the police report provides external validation.
Insurance companies use these reports to verify the facts and determine fault. If discrepancies arise, having both documents can protect you from being unfairly blamed or underpaid.
When pursuing a claim, documentation is everything. Comprehensive records—including reports, photos, and witness statements—form the foundation of a strong personal injury lawsuit.
How to Obtain Each Report
Getting an accident report is usually simple. If it’s a workplace or property incident, contact the supervisor, property manager, or business owner to request a copy. For car accidents, you can often download a copy from your insurance company’s online portal.
Police reports, on the other hand, are obtained directly from the law enforcement agency that responded to your accident. This may require submitting a formal request or paying a small administrative fee. It’s important to keep a copy for your own records and provide one to your insurance adjuster or attorney.
If you’re unsure how to get your police report, Local Crash Reports can guide you step-by-step on how to locate it and why it’s crucial to your claim.
When a Police Report Might Not Be Filed
In some cases, a police officer may not respond to minor fender-benders or private property accidents. In these situations, the accident report becomes even more important. Without a police report, your personal documentation may be the only written account of what happened.
However, even if the accident seems small, it’s still wise to report it. Sometimes injuries or vehicle damage appear days later, and having documentation can make all the difference when filing a claim.
The Role of These Reports in Legal Cases
When you or a loved one suffer injuries in a crash, both reports can serve as valuable evidence in your case. Attorneys and insurers review these documents to understand liability and damages.
The elements of a personal injury case—like duty of care, breach, causation, and damages—are often proven using details from these reports. Witness statements, photos, and officer notes can all support your argument for fair compensation.
If a police report contains an error, you can often request an amendment. However, that process can be complicated, so consulting a qualified personal injury attorney is the best way to ensure your rights are protected.
Common Misunderstandings About Reports
Many people assume that an accident report and a police report are interchangeable, but they’re not. Each plays a unique role in documenting the incident and protecting your legal rights.
Some people also mistakenly believe that you don’t need to file a report if there are no visible injuries. But even a small accident can lead to delayed symptoms like neck or back pain. Filing a report ensures that you have documentation in case you develop health issues later or need to pursue compensation.