By Crash News Writer 
After a car accident, one of the first questions drivers often ask is: Do insurance companies require police report to process a claim? The short answer is that while not every claim requires one, having a police report can make all the difference in how smoothly your case is handled.
Insurance companies are in the business of assessing risk and limiting payouts. They rely on facts, evidence, and official documentation to determine who was at fault and how much they are willing to cover. That’s where police reports come in.
Why Insurance Companies Value Police Reports
A police report provides an unbiased, third-party account of what happened during an accident. Unlike the drivers involved—who may have conflicting stories or self-interest—the responding officer’s job is to document facts. This is why many insurance adjusters lean heavily on reports when making decisions.
When you ask, do insurance companies require police report, the answer depends on the situation. But in nearly all cases, a report strengthens your claim and reduces the chance of disputes.
Do Insurance Companies Require Police Report for Every Accident?
Not always. If the accident is minor, such as a small parking lot scrape with no injuries, insurers may process claims without one. However, if there are injuries, significant damage, or disputes about who was at fault, most insurers will expect a report before moving forward.
Even in “no-fault” states, where your own insurance covers damages regardless of fault, a police report still provides useful documentation. It shows that the accident really happened, when it occurred, and who was involved.
How a Police Report Impacts Your Claim
If you’re wondering do insurance companies require police report in your case, consider the following ways it can influence your claim:
- Establishing Fault – Reports often include officer observations, diagrams, and sometimes witness statements. These details can tip the scales when insurers decide who caused the crash.
- Preventing Fraud – Insurance fraud is a real problem. A police report helps confirm that the accident occurred as reported, protecting against false or exaggerated claims.
- Streamlining the Process – Claims with police reports often move faster because the evidence is already documented. Without one, insurers may delay processing until they can gather enough proof.
- Protecting Against False Accusations – If the other driver later changes their story, a police report provides a record of what was said and observed at the scene.
The Risks of Not Having a Police Report
While you may be able to file a claim without one, skipping the report can create major problems. Without official documentation, insurers may deny or minimize your claim. You may also struggle to prove your injuries or damages were directly linked to the crash.
For example, if you later file a personal injury claim, the lack of a report could make it harder to connect your injuries to the accident. Insurance adjusters may argue that your injuries were caused elsewhere or exaggerated.
Insurance Companies and Their Bottom Line
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are not neutral parties. Their goal is to protect their bottom line by minimizing payouts. That’s why when you ask, do insurance companies require police report, the real question is whether having one strengthens your ability to get fair compensation. And the answer is a resounding yes.
Without a police report, you’re relying solely on your own word, photos, and witness statements. While those are important, they don’t carry the same weight as an official report from law enforcement.
How Police Reports Support Personal Injury Cases
Police reports aren’t just helpful for property damage claims—they also play a key role in injury cases. For example, knowing the elements of a personal injury case shows why evidence like reports is critical. They document the crash immediately, provide officer observations, and often note whether injuries were visible at the scene.
This is especially important because some injuries don’t show up right away. Without a report, insurance companies may argue those injuries weren’t related to the accident.
What If the Police Don’t Come to the Scene?
Sometimes officers don’t respond to minor accidents, especially if no one is injured. In that case, you may still be able to file a report later at a local police station or online, depending on your state’s system.
Even if police don’t show up, it’s critical to document everything yourself. Take photos, collect witness information, and gather as much detail as possible. This documentation will be useful when filing your claim.
Common Misconceptions About Police Reports and Insurance
- “If both drivers agree on fault, we don’t need a report.” This is risky. The other driver could change their story later, leaving you vulnerable.
- “Insurance companies don’t actually check reports.” False. Adjusters frequently rely on reports to make decisions, especially in contested claims.
- “Police reports always determine fault.” Not entirely. While influential, they don’t legally decide liability—insurance companies and courts make the final call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Police Reports and Insurance
Do insurance companies always need a police report?
Not in every case, but having one makes claims easier, faster, and often more successful.
Will my claim be denied without a report?
It depends. Some minor claims may go through, but in disputed cases, the lack of a report could hurt your chances.
Does a police report guarantee my claim will be approved?
No, but it provides strong evidence that supports your side of the story and helps prevent denial.
Can I get a report after leaving the scene?
Yes, you can usually file later, though it’s best to get one immediately.
What if the other driver refuses to call the police?
You should call anyway. Protecting yourself with documentation is more important than the other driver’s wishes.
Final Thoughts
So, do insurance companies require police report? Not always. But if you want the best chance at a smooth, fair claims process, having one is essential. A police report strengthens your case, prevents disputes, and gives you credibility when dealing with insurers.
The bottom line: even if the accident seems minor, always file a police report. It’s a small step that can save you big headaches later.
If your accident involved injuries, consider speaking with a trusted personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the claims process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.