What To Do If My Accident Report is Incorrect

Dealing with the impact of a car wreck can be overwhelming. The last thing you need is an accident report with incorrect information.

At Taylor King Law, we’re here to answer your questions and decode the confusion. As a trusted Fort Smith car accident lawyer, we’re often asked: What should you do if the information in your accident report is wrong?

Can I Correct My Accident Report? 

Yes, you can correct an accident report in Arkansas, especially when it contains factual errors. If you’ve reviewed your police report and found information that doesn’t match your memory or the actual events, you’re not alone. Many accident victims notice discrepancies—such as a wrong vehicle make, misstated time of day, or even incorrect fault assignment—that can significantly affect the outcome of their insurance claims or legal proceedings. Addressing these inaccuracies promptly is crucial. Arkansas law enforcement agencies allow for amendments to be made when verifiable evidence supports the correction. You’ll need to act quickly, gather the necessary documentation, and follow the proper procedures outlined by the reporting agency. Whether it’s a minor clerical error or a more serious dispute regarding the officer’s narrative, ensuring your report accurately reflects what occurred can help protect your rights and strengthen your case should legal action be necessary.

What Information Can You Change?  

Error of Fact  

You can correct factual mistakes such as an incorrect date or time of the crash, wrong spelling of names, license plate inaccuracies, or vehicle misidentification. These types of clerical errors are often easier to address, especially when backed by reliable documentation like photos, your driver’s license, or insurance information.

Disputable Information 

Subjective details, like who was at fault or the officer’s narrative, may be harder to alter. Officers often rely on their own observations and statements from those involved, which may lead to conflicting interpretations. If the officer believes their account is accurate, they may refuse to revise it. However, you’re still entitled to submit your own written account of the incident. Adding a statement ensures your perspective is documented, even if the official report remains unchanged.

What Else Can I Do if the Report is Wrong?  

If the police report contains inaccuracies and the reporting officer is unwilling to make corrections, you still have options to protect your rights and ensure your version of events is documented. Taking additional steps can help strengthen your insurance claim and legal case.

• Request a supplemental or amended report by presenting your supporting evidence to the officer or department.
• Add a written statement or addendum that outlines your perspective on the incident.
• Consult a local car accident lawyer for guidance if the inaccuracies are complex or impact liability and compensation. A lawyer can help ensure your voice is represented properly.

How Do I Dispute a Police Report in Arkansas?  

To dispute a police report in Arkansas, your first step is to contact the officer who wrote it or the department that issued it. Be prepared to clearly explain what part of the report you believe is incorrect. Supporting documentation—such as photos, witness accounts, or medical records—will strengthen your case and help ensure your request is taken seriously.

Contact the Reporting Officer First 

Begin by reaching out to the officer listed on the report. Provide your case or report number and politely explain the discrepancies you’ve noticed. If it’s a factual mistake, the officer may issue an amended report without much delay.

Gather Supporting Documentation

Supporting evidence is critical to fixing an incorrect police report. This might include:

• Photographs or video footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Medical records
• Insurance documentation
• Repair invoices or estimates

As defined by Cornell Law School, evidence is anything used to make the existence of a fact more or less probable.

Be Respectful and Specific When Requesting a Change  

Maintain a respectful tone and clearly indicate what you believe is inaccurate. List specific sections or statements and provide the facts you believe should replace them. Officers are more likely to cooperate when requests are well-reasoned and non-confrontational.

Can I Add a Statement to the Report?  

Yes, you can add a personal statement to supplement a police report, especially if the officer refuses to amend it. This allows your perspective to become part of the official documentation.

Writing an Addendum or Statement of Disagreement.  

You may submit a written addendum or disagreement statement through the local law enforcement agency or directly to the officer. The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations supports this approach, noting that a person may file a statement explaining why they believe the report is incorrect.

When an Addendum Can Be Helpful  

An addendum is helpful when subjective disagreements arise. For example, if the officer incorrectly attributes fault or leaves out a witness, your statement ensures your version is on record. While it may not change the report, it can influence insurance evaluations or future legal proceedings.

What Type of Information is Included in the Police Report? 

Police reports generally include identifying information, accident details, diagrams, and the officer’s narrative. Understanding what’s in the report helps you identify what may need to be corrected. Key components usually include:

• Names and contact details of the involved parties
• Date, time, and location
• Vehicle makes and models
• Witness statements
• Road and weather conditions
• Preliminary fault determination

When Should You Consult a Lawyer?  

You should consult a lawyer when the incorrect information may impact your insurance claim or legal case. Some errors, especially those relating to fault or injury severity, can significantly affect your compensation.

An experienced Arkansas car accident lawyer can:

• Communicate with the police or insurance on your behalf
• Help you gather and organize supporting documents
• Ensure your legal rights are protected

Are Accident Reports Important in a Personal Injury Case? 

Yes, accident reports are often key pieces of evidence in personal injury claims. Insurance adjusters and courts frequently rely on the information within these documents to evaluate responsibility and determine settlement amounts. An accurate report can support your version of events, while an incorrect one may weaken your position. Ensuring the report reflects the facts is essential.

Contact an Attorney at Taylor King Law  

Taylor King Law brings decades of experience representing Arkansas drivers. If you believe your police report is inaccurate, our team can help you correct the record and protect your claim. We offer free consultations to guide you through your next steps.