How To Make a Police Report After a Car Accident in Portland, OR

Understanding the process after a car accident can be really helpful, especially when it comes to dealing with the police report. You might need medical attention, and there will be questions from the police to figure out what happened. 

This article will help you learn about the importance of the police report and guide you on how to handle it correctly when you’re filling out your car accident report.

What’s the Difference Between a Police Report and An Accident Report?

Understanding the difference between a police report and an accident report is crucial after a car accident in Portland.

A police report is created by the officers who come to the scene of the accident. They document what happened, who was involved, and any other important details. This report is mainly for legal and insurance purposes, providing an official account of the incident.

On the other hand, an accident report is something you personally file with the Oregon DMV. It’s your own record of the accident and is necessary for the DMV’s records and any insurance claims.

When Do I Need To File an Accident Report?

In Portland, if you’re involved in a car accident, there’s a specific process for reporting it to the DMV. It’s important to know when and how to do this.

Here’s when you must file a report with the Oregon DMV:

• If there are any injuries or someone dies in the accident.
• If the damage to property is more than $2,500.

You have 72 hours after the accident to file this report. Remember, the report made by the police at the scene is different. You need to file your own report with the DMV. The police report is helpful, but it doesn’t take the place of the DMV report you’re required to submit.

Injuries To Look Out for After a Portland Car Accident

In the aftermath of a car accident, being vigilant about injuries is key. Some are obvious right away, while others may be hidden and emerge later. Here’s a comprehensive list of injuries to be aware of:

• Cuts and Lacerations: These are often caused by broken glass or metal and are usually visible immediately.
• Broken Bones: Clear signs like pain, swelling, or deformity can indicate a fracture.
• Concussions: A brain injury resulting from the impact, which might have delayed symptoms.
• Internal Injuries: Serious and potentially hidden, these injuries often require immediate medical attention.
• Whiplash: A neck injury that might not be noticeable right after the accident.
• Hidden Bruises: These might not be visible immediately due to adrenaline and shock.

Whether injuries are evident right away or not, seeking medical evaluation is crucial. This ensures your health is prioritized, and it also provides the necessary documentation for insurance or legal purposes following the accident.

How To Submit an Accident Report in Portland

Submitting your accident report in Oregon is a straightforward process. Let’s break down the steps to ensure you do it correctly.

• Accessing the Form: As mentioned earlier, the accident report form can be accessed and completed online. The online option is convenient and can save you time.
• Other Ways to Get the Form: If you prefer, you can pick up a physical copy of the form at your local police department or DMV office. This is a good option if you’re not comfortable with online forms or if you want to ask questions in person.
• Completing and Submitting the Form: After you’ve filled out the form, it needs to be delivered to your local DMV office. It’s very important to keep a copy of the completed accident report for your own records.
• Mailing the Form: If you can’t get to the DMV office in person, no worries. You can also mail the completed form. This is useful if you’re unable to travel or if you’re short on time. The DMV provides a specific address for mailing in the form.

By following these steps, you can ensure your accident report is submitted correctly and on time. This is an important part of handling the aftermath of a car accident in Oregon.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Portland, OR

If you were injured in an accident in Portland, OR, please contact our Portland car accident lawyers at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve all throughout Multnomah County in Oregon. Visit our office at:

Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers
101 SW Main St. #1905
Portland, OR, 97204
(503) 773-3333
Hours: Open 24/7