is this situation typical? Requesting an amendment to a police report
About a month ago, I was involved in a car accident where a woman ran a stop sign and crashed into my vehicle. While I know that police reports aren’t definitive in determining fault, her insurance company is insisting they won’t proceed with their investigation until she reaches out to the officer who wrote the report and gets it amended. They’ve been saying this for almost a month. I contacted the police department today, and they have no record of any communication with her. However, they did indicate that she was cited for a 19-failure to yield on the report. It seems like the insurance company is stalling in hopes that the report will change to reflect that she wasn’t at fault, and they are unwilling to continue the investigation. Is there anything I can do in this situation?
It sounds frustrating to be caught in this situation. While it’s not uncommon for insurance companies to request changes to police reports, they typically can’t force an officer to amend it unless there’s a legitimate reason to do so. Since the officer cited her for failing to yield, that strongly supports your case.
Here are some steps you can take:
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with the insurance company, the police department, and any other relevant parties.
Request a Copy of the Report: If you haven’t already, obtain a copy of the police report for your own records. This can help you understand the details and make your case stronger.
Contact Your Own Insurance Company: If you have collision coverage, consider reporting the incident to your own insurance. They may be able to intervene on your behalf and help expedite the claims process.
File a Complaint: If the other driver’s insurance is not cooperating, you may consider filing a complaint with your state’s department of insurance. They may be able to assist in resolving the matter.
Consider Legal Advice: If the situation continues to delay your claim, it may be worthwhile to consult with an attorney who specializes in car accidents and insurance claims. They can help you understand your rights and options.
Follow Up with the Police: It’s also worth following up with the police department regarding the officer’s report and whether any amendment requests are officially documented.
While it can be a lengthy process, staying proactive and organized will help you navigate the situation more effectively. Good luck!