How Police Reports Help Maryland Car Accident Claims

 Posted on December 09, 2025 in Car & Truck Accidents

There are many steps to take in the aftermath of a car accident. One important one is to get a police report. This document creates an official record of the crash, and it can be a significant piece of evidence when you file your claim for compensation. If you were involved in a crash and are looking for financial support, our Annapolis, MD car accident lawyers can help you build a strong case, starting with an evaluation of the police report.

How Do Police Reports Help Prove Fault in a Maryland Car Accident Case?

Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. That means fault plays a major role in whether compensation is available. A police report does not decide the case by itself, but it can carry real weight. Officers often include statements from drivers and witnesses. They also note road conditions, weather, and any visible damage. When citations are issued, they appear in the report as well.

Medical records can also connect to the police report. For example, Md. Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 10-104 allows certain medical records to be admitted as evidence without requiring the treating provider to testify in person, which helps link injuries directly to the crash. When medical treatment lines up with the details in the report, it can strengthen a claim and reduce questions about where the injuries came from.

What if the Police Report Is Wrong in a Maryland Crash Case?

Officers work under pressure and often with limited time. Sometimes details are missing or incorrect. A mistake does not mean your case is over. It simply means more care is needed moving forward. If a report has an error, a few common steps you can take include:

• Review the report as soon as it becomes available.

• Gather photos, videos, and witness contact information.

• Provide clear medical records that show your injuries.

• Ask whether a correction or supplemental statement is possible.

Even when a change cannot be made to the report, other evidence can still help explain what really happened. A police report is one piece of the larger picture, not the whole story.

How Do Insurance Companies Use Police Reports in Maryland Car Crash Claims?

Insurance companies rely heavily on police reports during the early stages of a claim. Adjusters use them to confirm who was involved and how the crash occurred. They also look for any signs of traffic violations or unsafe driving.

Reports often influence how quickly a claim moves. When the facts are clear, insurance reviews usually move faster. When facts are disputed, the process can slow down. For example, in crashes that involve an uninsured or underinsured driver, Md. Code, Insurance § 19-509 allows you to turn to your own insurance policy when the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage to pay for your injuries. The police report becomes especially important in these cases because it helps confirm how the crash happened, who was involved, and whether the other driver was properly insured. Insurance companies use this information to decide whether your uninsured motorist coverage should apply.

Contact Our Bowie, MD Car Accident Attorneys Today

A police report can be a strong foundation for a Maryland car accident claim, but it is only one part of the picture. The team at Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett will guide you through the process from start to finish.

Our team approaches every case with focus and determination, never backing down from challenges. Together, our Annapolis, MD car accident lawyers have more than 50 years of experience to bring to your aid. Call us today at 301-262-5500 to schedule a consultation and talk about how to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.