What to do next after you get the crash report

Getting the official crash report is a key step in a personal injury claim. The report summarizes the responding officer’s view of the collision, identifies parties, lists witness names and contact info (sometimes), and often describes apparent points of impact and citations. Use that report as a foundation, but not as the only evidence.

1. Read the report carefully and correct any factual errors

Check names, contact information, vehicle descriptions, and the narrative for obvious errors. If the report has mistakes, contact the law enforcement agency that issued it and ask how to obtain an amendment or a supplemental report. If you get corrected or supplemental documentation, keep copies with your claim file.

2. Immediately document your medical care and injuries

Your priority is health. Seek medical attention as soon as possible even for injuries that seem minor. Document every visit, treatment, prescription, therapy session, diagnostic test, and any recommended restrictions. Medical records and bills are the primary proof of injury and medical damages in a claim.

3. Preserve evidence

Preserve what you have: photos of vehicles, skid marks, road signs, and the accident scene; surveillance footage (if any nearby businesses); damaged personal property; and the vehicle involved. Keep the damaged vehicle intact until an adjuster inspects it or until your attorney advises otherwise. Save correspondence, receipts, and time off work records.

4. Notify your insurer and be cautious in communications

Give notice to your own auto insurer as required by your policy. If the other driver’s insurer contacts you, be careful: do not give recorded statements or detailed explanations without considering legal advice. Stick to basic facts (where you were treated, that you were in the crash) and avoid admitting fault or downplaying symptoms.

5. Figure out who is legally responsible

Liability can come from the other driver, a vehicle owner, an employer (if the driver was working), or a third party (vehicle part defect or road hazard). The crash report may list citations or officer opinions; those help but are not conclusive. Investigate witnesses, secure their statements, and collect additional evidence that supports fault.

6. Calculate your damages

Damage categories include medical expenses (past and expected future), lost wages and lost earning capacity, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering. Keep thorough records for each category. For projected future damages, a medical provider or vocational expert may need to prepare an opinion.

7. Prepare a demand and negotiate or mediate

Most claims resolve without a lawsuit. A common next step is a written demand package to the at-fault party’s insurer that includes the crash report, medical records, bills, a statement of damages, and a settlement demand. Insurers often respond with a settlement offer or a request for more information. Be ready to negotiate or consider mediation if settlement stalls.

8. Watch the time limits and possible statute of limitations

Every state limits how long you can file a lawsuit. In Wyoming, limitations of actions and related timing rules apply to personal injury claims. It is critical to confirm the applicable deadline for your specific case and any exceptions that might extend or shorten it. You can start by reviewing Wyoming’s statutes online: Wyoming Statutes (Wyoming Legislature). If you miss the deadline, you may lose the right to sue.

9. Consider hiring an attorney (when and why)

If your injuries are significant, fault is disputed, multiple parties are involved, or the insurer’s offer is too low, contact a personal injury attorney experienced with motor vehicle cases in Wyoming. An attorney can:

• Collect and preserve evidence
• Communicate with insurers and defense counsel
• Calculate and prove future damages
• File suit and manage court procedures if necessary
• Negotiate or litigate for a higher recovery

10. If suit becomes necessary

If negotiation fails, your attorney will prepare and file a complaint in the appropriate Wyoming court (usually district court for personal injury). The court process includes discovery (document requests, depositions), motions, and possibly a trial. Filing a lawsuit begins the formal timeline controlled by Wyoming court rules and the state’s statutes of limitation.

11. Consider health-care liens, subrogation, and Medicare/Medicaid rules

Medical providers, private insurers, or government programs may have lien or subrogation rights against any recovery. Make sure you understand any obligations to repay health insurers or government programs out of settlement proceeds. If you are a Medicare or Medicaid beneficiary, follow federal and state rules about reporting the settlement so those programs can protect their interests.

12. Keep a clear file for your claim

Keep a chronological folder or digital file with: the crash report, photos, medical records, medical bills, wage loss documentation, all correspondence, the demand letter, and notes about calls and meetings. Good organization speeds resolution and preserves evidence for trial if needed.

Useful Wyoming resources

• Wyoming Legislature — Wyoming statutes and laws: https://wyoleg.gov/Statutes
• Wyoming Judicial Branch — court information and filing rules: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/
• Wyoming Department of Transportation — general site (contact for crash report procedures and crash records): https://www.dot.state.wy.us/

Bottom line: Use the crash report as evidence, document injuries and expenses, preserve physical and testimonial evidence, notify insurers carefully, prepare a demand, and watch the applicable time limits. If liability or damages are disputed, get legal help early.

Disclaimer: This article explains general information about Wyoming law and claim processes. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Wyoming attorney.