If you have ever been in an auto accident you probably wondered should you call the police? Yes. Calling the police is an important first step because they will create an official police report. This report will be a vital piece of evidence that the accident occurred and who was involved. Your insurance company will better be able to handle your claim if there is a police report. Many people are reluctant to contact the police especially in a minor accident with little obvious damage but this a mistake. Just because no damage or injury is obvious doesn’t mean someone isn’t hurt or might claim injury or damages after the fact. Having a police report will ensure that people’s stories don’t change after the fact and will help determine fault.
Pennsylvania state law has established an optional no-fault auto insurance system. When PA drivers obtain their insurance policy they can choose either full tort or limited tort. Those choosing full tort have the right to sue a driver found to be at fault for an accident but can also be sued themselves if they are found to be at fault. Drivers with limited tort or no-fault insurance recover damages from their own insurance company and can only sue in limited cases. The law is complex and when you consider out of state drivers it becomes even more complicated. This is why you should contact the police because getting a police report will help protect you against false claims and help determine fault.