Crash Reports

In North Carolina, the first investigation of any motor vehicle crash is by the police. In order to assist their investigation, they use a special form published by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles—“Crash Report Form DMV-349.” The form, also known as the crash report, accident report, or police report, is an essential piece of information for either party attempting to prove who was at fault. According to North Carolina law, this report should be completed within 24 hours of the crash and submitted to the DMV. You can fill out a Request for Motor Vehicle Information with the DMV for a copy of the crash report. copy of the crash report. Some police forces have the information available online, such as the Wilmington North Carolina Police Department. While the main information is easily understood regarding the narrative description of the crash; drivers, passengers, and witnesses contact and insurance information; and traffic violations that were cited; there are a number of other details. In order to decipher the codes on the report, use this key (Download DMV349). You can also use the DMV-349 Instruction Manual to help you interpret the crash report. An experienced personal injury attorney also should have a great deal of experience in interpreting the report.

-Bradley A. Coxe is a practicing attorney in Wilmington, NC who practices in Personal Injury, Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Contract and Real Estate disputes, and all forms of Civil Litigation.  Please contact him at (910) 772-1678.