Metro Police will start asking drivers to file their own report for fender benders and minor accidents next week. More than a year ago, the department stopped trying to respond to all wrecks because of a staffing shortage, but there were more limited options for filing a police report.
The latest Metro budget added nearly 70 positions to the police department, but calls still result in long wait times. The department is framing the DIY accident report as a way to alleviate call volume.
“As the city has grown and the demand for police services has increased, calls must be prioritized according to immediate public safety needs,” Chief John Drake says in a written release. “Most property damage crashes, particularly those not blocking major thoroughfares, are lower priority calls in the classification hierarchy.”
The portal launching Monday allows drivers to file a police report through a LexisNexis product called the Desk Officer Reporting System. Departments around the country have started using the system for minor incidents to free up officers for more serious calls.
When calling to report the accident, qualifying drivers will be sent a link to fill out the forms on their smartphones. The police record would then be accessible for insurance purposes.
Allstate agent Stephon Fleming says a police report isn’t required to make a claim, but it helps.
“We always tell them: If you can get one, great. If not, it’s ok,” Fleming says. “The biggest thing is: Have you paid your premium? And your policy is active.”
The new automated system does require all parties to be willing to share their license and insurance information and agree on the circumstances of the crash. Metro Police say they will continue to respond in-person if the wreck involves any injuries, confrontations or impaired drivers.
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