If you’re involved in a car accident in Oregon, you might be wondering whether you need to file a police report. The short answer is: it depends. It is helpful to understand when you should, or should not, file a police report after an accident.
When is a police report required?
In Oregon, if there are injuries or significant property damage from a car accident, you must file a report with the police. According to Oregon law, if the accident results in injury or death, you must immediately report it to law enforcement. Additionally, if the damage exceeds $2,500 to any vehicle or property, you need to file a report. Failing to do so could lead to penalties, including a fine or potential suspension of your driver’s license.
Benefits of filing a police report
Even if you’re not legally required to file a report, doing so can benefit your case if you plan on pursuing a claim. A police report serves as an official record of the accident, outlining key details such as who was involved, the damages, and any potential witnesses.
Insurance companies often rely on this report to determine liability and process your claim efficiently. It can also help prevent any disputes regarding fault, especially in situations where you’re not sure who is responsible for the crash.
When a police report might not be needed
If the accident is minor and doesn’t involve injuries or significant property damage, you might not need to file a police report. In these cases, exchanging information with the other driver, such as names, contact details, and insurance info, might be enough. However, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and consult with law enforcement if you’re uncertain.
A police report can make a world of difference when it comes to proving your side of the story, so it’s worth considering even for smaller car accidents.
What to do if a report isn’t filed
If the police don’t respond to the scene of the accident, or if the officer decides not to file a report, you can still file a crash report yourself with the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is especially important if there’s any dispute over the accident’s details.