I get where you’re coming from, but I’d push back a bit—especially when it comes to hit-and-runs or anything that’s not just a minor scratch. Even if the police don’t always file reports for small stuff, having that official documentation can make things way smoother if there’s any dispute or if the other party tries to deny responsibility later. I’ve seen claims get messy fast when there’s no police report, even with good photos. Sometimes it’s just about covering your bases, you know?
Sometimes it’s just about covering your bases, you know?
Totally get that, but man, sometimes it feels like calling the cops for every little thing is just asking for a headache. I had a fender bender once and waited over an hour for them to show up, only for them to shrug and say “just swap info.” But yeah, for hit-and-runs or if someone’s being shady, I’d rather have that report in my back pocket. Insurance companies love their paperwork...
Yeah, that’s the thing—sometimes it feels like calling the cops just adds more hassle, especially if nobody’s hurt and you’re just swapping info anyway. But when it comes to parked cars and hit-and-runs, do insurance companies actually care if you have a police report, or do they just want photos and your statement? I’ve heard mixed things. Anyone ever had a claim denied because they didn’t get a report?
Had this happen with my ’72 Nova a couple years back. Parked on the street, someone sideswiped it and took off. Here’s the deal—insurance companies almost always want a police report for hit-and-runs. Photos and your statement help, but without that report, they can drag their feet or flat out deny the claim. I tried skipping the report once (figured it was a waste of time) and ended up fighting the adjuster for weeks. Now I just bite the bullet and call it in, even if it’s a pain. It’s not about catching the guy—it’s about covering your own butt with the insurance folks.
Man, I hear you on the paperwork pain. But here’s what I’ve always wondered—if you call the cops for a minor hit-and-run and they’re swamped, do they ever just tell you to file online or something? Or do you have to wait around for hours? I’m all for covering my own butt, but I’d rather not spend half my day on the curb if I can help it... Anyone ever had the cops just brush it off or give you a shortcut?