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Sergeant Jerry Burns explains when drivers must file crash reports
Summary
In a Traffic Tip Tuesday segment, Sergeant Jerry Burns outlined when collisions must be reported to police, distinguishing private-property incidents from roadway crashes and explaining the $2,000 damage threshold and use of an online crash-report form.
Sergeant Jerry Burns said in a Traffic Tip Tuesday segment that drivers involved in collisions in Lake Havasu do not always need to involve law enforcement and described when a formal police crash report is required. "A private property collision is just that," Burns said, adding that crashes in private lots — for example, a store parking lot — are handled by the drivers exchanging information.
Burns explained why some crashes still need documentation: dispatch can send a link to drivers through CARFAX so they can enter plate information and upload photos; that electronic submission can be printed or provided to insurers. "Once 2 cars have collided, caused some damage, it's up to the 2 parties to exchange information. You do not need to get law enforcement involved even though your insurance companies are gonna want you to get a report. It is not required," he said.
He differentiated nonreportable roadway crashes from reportable ones by dollar amount and injury. Burns said a collision on a public road with damage below $2,000 is classified as nonreportable and can be processed using the CARFAX online form; a crash that occurs on the roadway with damage over $2,000 or that results in an injury is reportable and will prompt an officer response. "Officers will show up. They'll take a look at the scene. ... and then they will complete a state form, the Arizona crash report form, that that is something that you'll turn over to your insurance company," he said.
Burns noted that the Arizona crash report is used by the state to compile crash statistics and that insurance companies make determinations about fault after reviewing the report. "Insurance companies are the ones that do that determination," he said, advising drivers to make sure their insurer reviews the crash report. He provided a contact number for questions about crash reports: (928) 854-0842.
The segment closed with a brief safety reminder: "As always, stay safe and have a great day. We'll see you next time," Burns said.
