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After a car accident, there’s so much to manage. While navigating medical care, insurance calls, and lost time from work, paperwork might be the last thing on your mind. But one document can make a real difference in how your claim unfolds—your Portland, Maine, car accident report.
Whether you were hit at an intersection downtown or rear-ended on I-295, obtaining this report is one of the most important steps to protect your rights. At Mann Law, we help people every day who are dealing with the aftermath of serious crashes. We know what this report means and how it can help or hurt your case.
Below, we’ll explain exactly how to get your report, why it matters, and what to do if you can’t get a police officer to the scene.
In Portland, car accident reports are usually prepared by the Portland Police Department or the Maine State Police, depending on where the accident occurred. Here’s how to get your report.
Most crash reports in Maine are available online through the Maine Crash Reporting Online Search & Ordering Service, run by the Bureau of Highway Safety. Start by visiting the crash reporting website. You’ll need basic information like:
Reports typically cost around $10, payable by credit card. Most police reports are available a few days after the crash. It’s important to note that some details may be missing from this report that you would find in the one from the investigating law enforcement agency. Examples include witness statements, photos, and officer narratives.
If the Portland Police Department investigated your crash, you can also request your report by contacting:
Portland Police Department
109 Middle Street
Portland, ME 04101
Phone: (207) 874-8479
You’ll need to provide similar details, and there may be a small fee for copies.
The car accident report is the official record of what happened. It’s used by insurance companies, attorneys, and, in some cases, the courts. Here’s what it typically includes:
Even though it’s not the only evidence in a case, this report can support your version of events, especially if the other driver tries to shift blame or downplay what happened.
Yes, it is technically possible to file an insurance claim without a police report. However, it can make the process more difficult, especially if:
If you’re wondering if you can claim a car accident without a police report, the answer is yes, but be cautious. Insurance companies may be more skeptical, and this could weaken your case if it goes to court.
At Mann Law, we’ve helped clients through claims with and without official reports. If you didn’t get one, don’t panic; call us, and we’ll help you explore your options.
In Maine, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies have language requiring you to notify them promptly, often within a few days of the crash. Failing to notify your insurer promptly could give them grounds to delay or deny your claim.
If you’re wondering how long you have, check your specific policy, but aim to report it within 24–72 hours. That doesn’t mean you need to provide a complete statement immediately (and you shouldn’t without legal advice), but putting them on notice protects you.
Police officers are human. Sometimes, accident reports contain errors, like:
If that happens, do not ignore it. Reach out to the investigating officer to request a correction or supplement. Sometimes, you can submit a written statement or addendum to be included in the report file.
And if the insurance company is using that flawed report against you? That’s where we come in. At Mann Law, we can challenge weak or incomplete reports with additional evidence, like medical records, crash reconstructions, and witness interviews.
Once you have your Portland, Maine, car accident report, the next step is reviewing it carefully with someone who understands what it means in the context of an injury claim. At Mann Law, we’ll help you:
Sometimes, a report is enough to convince the insurance company to settle quickly. Other times, it’s just the beginning of the process. Either way, you deserve to be treated fairly, and we’ll help you get there.
When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, choosing a law firm is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s why injured drivers in Portland trust us:
Our goal is to help you feel informed, empowered, and taken care of every step of the way.
If you’re injured, overwhelmed, and unsure what to do next, we’re here to help. We’ll walk you through how to get your Portland, Maine, car accident report, help you understand your legal rights, and stand by your side as you pursue a fair outcome.
Call Mann Law today at (207) 709-0900 or fill out our secure contact form for a free consultation. There’s no pressure, no upfront fees, and no obligation; just a conversation about how we can support you during one of the most difficult times in your life.
