The police report may give vital information for your motorcycle accident claimYou’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident then it is important to get a copy of the accident report. In Iowa, the police are required to investigate a motorcycle crash if anyone is injured, if anyone dies, or if the property damage is likely to be $1,500 or more.

Who Can Request a Copy of the Police Report?

Generally, you can request a copy of the police report if you are a party to the motorcycle accident. You are considered a party to the accident if:

  • You were the driver of a vehicle in the accident.
  • You are the owner of a vehicle in the accident, or you were leasing a vehicle involved in the accident.
  • You were a passenger involved in the accident.
  • You were a pedestrian involved in the accident.
  • You are the parent or guardian of a minor who was involved in the accident.
  • Your property (such as your motorcycle, for example) was damaged in the accident.

Additionally, the attorney of a party to the accident or a representative from the insurance company may be able to request a copy of the report.

How to Make Your Request

In order to get a copy of your report, you should fill out Iowa Department of Transportation Form 431007. You will need information including:

  • The date and time of the accident.
  • The location of the accident.
  • The name and either the driver’s license number of Social Security number of the driver.
  • Why you are a party to the accident.

Then, you can return that completed form, with the $4 copy fee and your signature, to the Iowa Department of Transportation.

In some cases, you may also be able to request a copy of your police report from the local police department that investigated your crash. For example, if your accident occurred in Cedar Rapids, then you may look on the Cedar Rapids Police Department website for more information about how to request a copy of your report.

To learn more tips for protecting your rights after a motorcycle crash, please browse our website or start a free live chat with us now.

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.