An official car accident report plays an important role in understanding what happened and establishing fault. In New Hampshire, when an accident occurs on the road, a police officer often writes an accident report that documents the details of the crash and even makes note of injuries and attendance of other emergency personnel like EMS and fire department.
This blog will walk you through the process of obtaining a copy of your New Hampshire accident report, why you should request one, and how it can be used to strengthen your case, whether for legal or insurance reasons.
Why Should You Request a Car Accident Report?
When you’re involved in a car accident, it’s important to understand that the officer’s accident report isn’t just a collection of facts about the crash; it can be an important piece of evidence. Additionally, it is not unusual that the investigating officer will note who is at fault and also note whether they issued a traffic violation. The officer usually indicates reported injuries or transportation to a local emergency room. Such facts are important building blocks to a personal injury case. Let’s dive into why you should consider requesting a copy of the accident report.
Legal Reasons
If you plan to pursue a car accident lawsuit against the driver responsible for your injuries, the accident report can serve as one of the most important pieces of evidence and also provide a breadcrumb trail to the discovery of evidence. Under New Hampshire law, the driver at fault for the accident is responsible for the damage to the other party’s vehicle and any resulting injuries. In many cases, the traffic accident report provides a source of facts on which to assess who is responsible for the crash, and it could play a pivotal role in the outcome of a personal injury lawsuit. Insurance adjusters will likely concede liability if the traffic accident report identifies its insured as the cause of the accident.
Support for Negligence Lawsuit
In a car accident lawsuit, you must prove that the other driver was at fault and that their actions directly caused your injuries. If the police officer’s report indicates that the other driver was negligent—such as running a red light, speeding, failing to keep a proper lookout, or failing to yield right of way—then this report will provide strong support for your case. An officer’s conclusion about fault can be used as a compelling argument that strengthens your claim.
For example, let’s say another driver ran a stop sign and collided with your vehicle. The officer who responds to the scene may note this in the accident report, confirming that the other driver’s violation of traffic laws directly contributed to the crash. If you decide to pursue a lawsuit, this report can serve as crucial evidence that the other party caused the accident.
Refuting Defendant’s Claims
Another important role the accident report plays is in refuting alternative claims made by the person who caused the accident. In some cases, the person who caused the accident may try to argue that you were partially at fault or that the crash occurred in a different way than you describe. For instance, a defendant may claim that you were speeding, hoping to reduce their responsibility for the accident.
However, if the officer’s report notes that the accident occurred because the other driver backed into your car or made an illegal lane change, then it becomes much harder for them to argue otherwise. The officer’s neutral, professional opinion can help prevent the responsible party from shifting blame to you.
Insurance Coverage
In addition to helping you build a strong case in a legal setting, the accident report is also instrumental in the insurance claims process. When you file a claim with your insurance company, the adjuster will need to assess the cause of the accident in order to determine who is responsible for the damage. If the report is clear and unequivocal about fault, it can make the insurance process much smoother.
Assistance in Filing an Insurance Claim
Your insurance company will likely request a copy of the accident report as part of their investigation into the crash. If the report clearly identifies the other driver as at fault, it can help speed up the claims process. For instance, if the officer notes that the other driver was speeding or failed to yield the right of way, your insurance company will have objective documentation to back up your claim.
How Can You Request a Car Accident Report in New Hampshire?
Now that you understand why obtaining an accident report is so important, you may be wondering how to go about getting one in New Hampshire. The process is relatively straightforward but requires following a few steps to ensure you submit your request properly.
Request Procedure
In New Hampshire, accident reports are processed through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and you will need to file a formal request to obtain a copy of the report. This request is made using the Request for Motor Vehicle Records form (DSMV 505). There are two primary ways to submit your request: dropping it off in person at the DMV in Concord or mailing it in.
1. Form Submission
You will need to complete the DSMV 505 form and submit it to the DMV either in person or by mail. If you choose to drop it off, you can visit the DMV office located in Concord, New Hampshire. Alternatively, you can mail your request to the same office.
The DSMV 505 form can be obtained from the DMV’s website or by visiting their office. If you are unfamiliar with the process or need assistance filling out the form, you can contact the DMV directly for guidance. The form will require information about the accident, including the date, location, and any other details you may have.
2. Cost and Payment
Presently, as of January 2025, obtaining an accident report in New Hampshire costs $1 per page, with a $5 minimum. You can click on this link which will take you to the State's website. If you want to determine the exact cost of your report before submitting payment, you can contact the DMV by phone or email. The DMV’s phone number is (603) 227-4010, and their email address is NH.DMVHelp@dos.nh.gov. This way, you can find out how many pages the report contains and plan your payment accordingly.
To make things easier, you can simply send a $5 check with your request, and if the report costs more than $5, the DMV will contact you for the remaining balance. If you are unsure about the payment method or the cost, feel free to reach out to the DMV for assistance.
You can also contact the local police department of the town or city where the accident occurred. I often visit the municipal website and drill down to find the records division of the police department. The website usually provides instructions on how to request the traffic accident report or provides a phone number to call. Most police departments require a written request and payment.
Requesting Another Person’s Car Accident Report
If you need to request someone else’s accident report, whether you are an attorney, insurance adjuster, or interested third party, you can do so by contacting the DMV. However, you must demonstrate a valid reason for requesting someone else’s report. In some cases, privacy laws may limit who can obtain a report. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to request another person’s report, you can contact the DMV directly for clarification.
Do You Need a New Hampshire Car Accident Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. An experienced car accident attorney in New Hampshire can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Apis Law is your ally for car accidents. Please contact us for a free consult.
Legal Assistance for Injury Claims
If you decide to pursue legal action after a car accident, having the right lawyer by your side can make all the difference. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, investigate the circumstances of the accident, and gather evidence such as the accident report to build a strong case. Attorneys specializing in personal injury law are well-versed in the process of negotiating with insurance companies and can advocate on your behalf in court if necessary.
Experienced Representation
At Apis Law, we specialize in representing accident victims throughout New Hampshire. Our team has years of experience in handling car accident cases and ensuring that our clients receive the full compensation they are entitled to. We understand the emotional and financial toll that an accident can take, and we are committed to fighting for your rights.
Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. During this consultation, we can assess the details of your situation, answer any questions you may have, and explain the next steps in the process. To schedule a consultation, call our office at (603) 785-1013.
Obtaining an accident report in New Hampshire is an essential step if you’ve been involved in a car crash, whether for legal or insurance purposes. The report serves as a key piece of evidence, helping to establish fault and supporting your claim for compensation. Requesting the report is a relatively simple process, and knowing how to do so can save you time and effort down the line. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, or if you need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced New Hampshire car accident attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
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