No Police Report After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania: What Now?
Not every crash ends with a police report. Sometimes officers are busy with other calls. Sometimes the drivers exchange information and leave because the damage looks minor. Sometimes the pain does not start until the next day. If there is no police report, you may worry that you have no way to prove what happened. In most cases, you can still bring a claim.
When police must be called in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania's Vehicle Code, drivers must immediately notify police after a crash if anyone is injured or killed, or if a vehicle is damaged so badly that it has to be towed. If police are required to investigate but do not, the driver must file a written Driver's Accident Report (Form AA-600) with PennDOT within five days of the crash.
If your crash met those rules and no officer came, filing the AA-600 creates an official record and helps protect your claim.
Can you still file an injury claim without a report?
Yes. A police report is helpful evidence, but it is not required to bring an insurance claim or a lawsuit. Police reports are also not the final word on fault. Many injury cases are built on other evidence, and some are won even when the report gets the facts wrong.
Evidence that can replace a police report
Photos and video of the vehicles, the scene and your injuries
The other driver's name, insurance and license plate
Witness names and phone numbers
Dashcam, doorbell or business security footage
Repair estimates and damage photos
Medical records showing when and how you were hurt
Text messages or calls with the other driver after the crash
What to do now
File the AA-600 if it applies. Do it within five days of the crash.
Call the police department. In some cases, you can still report the crash after the fact. Ask how. If a report was made, learn how to get your accident report in Luzerne County.
Notify your own insurance company. Most policies require prompt notice.
Get medical care. A doctor's visit soon after the crash ties your injuries to the accident. See delayed symptoms after an accident.
Write down everything you remember. Time, place, weather, what each driver said and did.
Save the evidence. Keep photos, texts and receipts in one place.
Watch out for changing stories
Without a police report, the other driver may later change their version of events or deny the crash happened at all. Their insurer may use the lack of a report to question your claim. Do not argue with the adjuster or give a recorded statement before getting advice. Read talking to the insurance adjuster first.
Talk to Joyce, Carmody & Moran
No police report does not mean no case. If you were hurt in a crash anywhere in Pennsylvania and no report was made, call Joyce, Carmody & Moran at 570-602-3560 for a free consultation. We can help gather the evidence and build your claim.
Let’s Work Together
When you work with us, you can expect clear communication, thoughtful strategy, and a team that is fully invested in your goals. We take the time to understand your needs, tailor our approach, and stand with you through every step of the legal process. Let’s move forward — together.