In the era of social media and 24/7 news cycles, it’s easy to get used to instant information. However, when you think someone you love may have been involved in a car accident, you might find that that information isn’t so easily accessible. Minutes can feel like hours, and unanswered calls may make you feel like there’s nowhere to turn.
There are other reasons to look for information about local accidents as well. Maybe you want to know about the city’s most dangerous intersections so you can avoid them, or perhaps you’re looking for the fastest route to your destination. Philadelphia car accidents are on the rise, with injuries and fatalities becoming more common. No matter the reason you’re looking for information about car accidents in Philadelphia, there are a few different methods you can use.
Crash Reports
You can obtain a crash report from the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Records. This method will take time and cost money – $25, to be exact. You must fill out an application to obtain the crash report that can be dropped off or mailed to the Public Safety Unit at City Hall. The downside to learning about local accidents this way is that the turnaround is 2-3 weeks, which is only helpful after the fact or if you need an official report for insurance or legal purposes.
Pennsylvania Crash Information Tool (PCTI)
Using the PCTI, you can get quick and detailed crash information from across Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia. This tool is helpful if you’re looking for crash statistics, data, and other information about the types of accidents that occur in Philadelphia and their locations. You can get a custom report that can include information such as injuries, fatalities, and accident types.
Local News
If you’re urgently looking for information about a specific accident, one of the fastest ways is through a local news station or website. Your local news is often on top of everything that happens within your neighborhood, including car accidents. Check their website or TV station to see if any accidents have been reported.
Police Non-Emergency Phone Line
When you’re in a panic wondering if a friend or loved one was hurt in an accident, it feels like an emergency. However, avoid calling 911; leave the emergency line for those in life-threatening situations and instead call the police non-emergency line. Keep in mind that the agent you speak to may not be able to give out certain information for privacy purposes, but they may be able to provide you with the information you need to ensure your loved one is safe.
What to Do if You or a Loved One is Injured in a Philadelphia Car Accident
Car accident injuries are common in Philadelphia and can lead to lifelong pain, expenses, and treatments. To ensure that you or your loved one receives fair compensation after a Philadelphia car accident, contact the Jason Javie Law Office for a free consultation. We can help you understand your options and start you on the path to fair compensation.