My son got into an accident and a neighbor called to get police report information; is this legal?

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My son got into an accident and a neighbor called to get police report information; is this legal?

My son was playing in a cladasac. A woman pulled in too fast, my son was looking behind him, & he hit the side of her vehicle. Everyone was fine. Four days later another neighbor, not involved in anyway, wanted to know what happened. She asked around & wasn’t satisfied, so she called the police. She told my friend (the house where the accident happened) that the police said “the report says it was the kids fault.” Was it legal for her to call? Was it legal for them to give any information? Was my son at fault? Should I call the police & talk with them? Any advice would be great! Thanks!

Asked on May 12, 2009 under Accident Law, Michigan

Answers:

L.M., Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 14 years ago | Contributor

If no one was hurt, and no one is making a claim for damages, there is no issue here.  Yes, anyone can call and get information from a police report.  A police report is part of the public record and anyone can purchase a copy of it.  If your son is not injured, and the driver of the car is not asking you for money for damage to her vehicle, I would just be thankful and not worry about what others have to say.  Frankly, it's hard to imagine that a child playing in a cul-de-sac would be responsible for the accident where someone is pulling in in a vehicle.


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