Are Police Reports Admissible in Court for my Maryland Car Accident Case?

Is a Police Report the Final Word in Your Accident Claim? Many believe that police reports serve as the final word in accident claims, but this isn't the case. They are considered hearsay and aren't admissible in court. The investigating officer collects statements from those involved and any eyewitnesses, inspects property damage photos, and then forms an opinion on who's at fault. However, their opinion isn't accepted in court either.
When dealing with insurance companies or when liability isn't clear-cut, the police report isn't the ultimate authority. Both parties need to present concrete evidence like CCTV footage, property damage photos, location details, and eyewitness testimonies.
If you're in Maryland and confused about how to file a personal injury claim post-accident, don't hesitate to reach out. I specialize in these matters and would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Remember, navigating the legal landscape can be tricky, but you don't have to do it alone.
Give John Leppler a call for a Free Consultation!
Leppler Injury Law handles cases involving motor vehicle and pedestrian injuries throughout the Baltimore area.
Click on the link to learn more about Why You Should Contact the Police After an Accident.
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Leppler Injury Law
John J. Leppler, Esq.
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Towson, MD 21204
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Transcript:
Are police reports in admissible evidence in court related to my accident claim. And the answer is no. Most people do not know this but police reports, accident reconstruction reports, things that are written up by the investigating police officer are called hearsay and they are inadmissible at trial. They cannot be admitted into court for evidence. The reason being is that the investigating officer did not actually see the accident happen.
What the investigating officer does is take statements from the drivers involved and any eyewitnesses who actually saw the accident, examines the property damage photographs of the motor vehicle that was involved, and then writes up a report and makes a determination in that report of who the officer believes is, in fact, at fault for the accident. It's also important to know that the officer's own opinion regarding who's at fault for the accident is also not admissible in court.
If you have any questions regarding how an injured victim can sue and bring a personal injury claim in the state of Maryland, feel free to call me. I do this every single day and would love to answer any questions you may have. Thank you.