Iowa Car Accident Report Basics

As the number of drivers in Iowa increases, so do your odds of being in a car accident. Every year, nearly 20,000 people in Iowa are in a car crash. Many of these people have no idea what to do after the collision. Do they exchange insurance information with the other driver and call it a day? Do they have to call 911 or notify their insurance carrier that there was an accident?

Iowa law is very clear about what motorists must do after a car crash. For example, drivers in Iowa must exchange information with the other driver. They must also report the accident. If you don’t comply with these laws, the state may suspend your license.

Becoming familiar with Iowa’s car accident reporting basics will save you time later. This article explains what your duties are after a motor vehicle accident. It also explains how to report a crash and let the insurance company know about the accident.

How To File a Car Crash Report in Iowa

This chart summarizes Iowa laws and procedures for filing a car crash report.

Note: Laws are subject to change. While we work hard to provide the most current information, you should conduct legal research for additional resources. Contact an Iowa car accident lawyer to answer questions about your personal injury claim.

When To Report a Car Accident to Police

Unfortunately, nearly half of all car accidents in Iowa cause physical injuries. The law requires drivers involved in these injury-causing accidents to immediately call the police and remain on the scene until officers arrive.

Although you aren’t required to call the police when you are in a crash that only causes property damage, it’s a good idea to call 911 after every accident. Police officers know how to investigate accident scenes properly. They will record their investigation and produce a report that can help if the other driver sues you for damages.

Filing an Iowa Car Accident Report

Motorists must file an Iowa Accident Report form after any accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage of more than $1,500. Pay special attention to the insurance information requested on page four of the report.

If you fail to file this report or provide your insurance information within 72 hours of the crash, the state can suspend your driver's license and registration. When the police investigate the crash and file their report, you don't have to file any additional paperwork. The police report will suffice. 

Receiving a Copy of Your Accident Report

When officers are at the scene of a crash, they typically prepare an accident report. You can purchase a copy of your accident report online or in person at the responding police or sheriff's station.

State law restricts access to these reports. The only parties with access are the drivers' attorneys, insurance companies, and law enforcement. So, if you’d like a copy of your accident report, you need to give a written request with the date, location, and time of the accident and the names and driver's license numbers of the drivers involved.

Iowa Car Accident Claim Concerns? Talk to an Attorney for Help

Getting your life back on track after an accident is stressful. If your car accident caused bodily injury or significant property damage, you must report it. An Iowa car accident attorney can do this for you. They'll also negotiate with the insurance companies and try to secure a fair settlement.