By Sara Canning
After an accident, getting your California Highway Patrol (CHP) report is essential before hiring a lawyer. Aside from the fact that you may need medical attention, you will also need insurance to cover your damages. However, you can facilitate this process by getting your CHP through various means.
This article will help you understand the importance of a CHP report in accident cases. By the end of the article, you will have a good knowledge of the process involved and all the requirements to get a report.
Accidents and collisions are unpredictable and unplanned. They are also unavoidable in many instances. In the state of California, accidents happen just like anywhere else.
The California Highway Patrol report (CHP) is a form that contains information about the accident. All the details on the report will provide evidence to show that you are eligible for compensation. This report will be very helpful to your lawyer when they’re filing the claim for damages on your behalf.
The CHP report contains the following information, but not in any particular order:
● Driver’s information
● Details of the crash
● Information on the vehicles involved
● If any party was under the influence of alcohol
● Names of passengers
● Witnesses present
The driver’s information is recorded on the CHP report and this includes the driver's name, sex, occupation, and license number. It makes it a lot easier to locate the driver in case you want to press charges.
For this information to be useful in the case, they must’ be accurate and updated.
As much as accidents can happen within a split second, certain things lead to the collision. For example, it could be that the driver was overspeeding or not obeying the traffic rules of the state.
The course of events during the crash are recorded in the CHP report. Details like these are important to make a strong personal injury case. As long as you have evidence about the crash, your chances of compensation are higher.
There is also a section for vehicle information on the CHP report. Details like plate numbers, vehicle model, and brand are required.
This section is important because it records the exact make and model of the cars, ensuring you receive adequate compensation. For instance, it would be unfair to receive $1000 for a Tesla X’s damage.
Drunk driving is one of the most common causes of accidents involving vehicles. It is possible to ascertain whether the driver was drunk at the collision site.
An alcohol test result will prove their clear result on their state. Of course, if they are guilty, you have a higher chance of a better compensation fee.
The names of passengers involved in the accident are important to give a complete CHP report. If the accident was not fatal to passengers, they could also serve as eyewitnesses to testify against the reckless driver.
The number of witnesses present could help build a strong injury claim. The more evidence there is in your favor, the more likely you’re going to be compensated.
How to get a CHP Report Form
Getting a CHP report is relatively easy. The state of California allows you to fill out a request form. This form will be sent by mail.
However, it’s best to know that you will pay a small fee if you use the method above. However, it is free if your personal injury attorney presents a CHP report form to you based on your claim.
A CHP report is vital to your personal injury claim. It is safe to say that without it, there may be no case to present at all.
It contains all the information and evidence for you to make your personal injury claim. It also helps insurance companies make the best decision for you following your accident.
Wrapping up, it is imperative to know that you need a CHP report after a highway accident. If you want to pursue compensation, this report is important in receiving your claim.