Police Involvement In Damage

Summary

Police in Maryland get involved in property damage cases if the damage results from a crime, is significant, or involves public property. For minor damages, like paint chips, police involvement may not be necessary unless theres a dispute. Consider getting a professional estimate to assess the damage before deciding on police reporting. Document the damage with photos if you move the car. Video evidence can help determine intent in cases of suspected intentional damage.

Full Conversation

When do police get involved with property damage?
In Virginia, police typically get involved in property damage cases when:
- The damage is a result of a crime, such as vandalism.
- The damage is significant or involves public property.
- There’s a dispute between parties that could lead to a breach of peace.
Is there a specific incident or situation you're concerned about?
I live in Maryland.
In Maryland, police involvement in property damage cases is generally similar to Virginia's:
- If the damage results from a crime, like vandalism.
- When the damage is significant or involves public property.
- If there's a dispute that might disrupt peace.
Is there a specific incident you're worried about?
Children were playing outside and damaged my car. It looks like paint chips. I am unsure if there is a dent. Only a professional can determine the true estimated damage. The police for their report want to know how much damage was caused and are wondering if it is worth it for them to come out.
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In cases like this, where children accidentally cause damage, police involvement may not always be necessary unless the damage is substantial or there's a dispute. If you're unsure about the extent of the damage, consider getting an estimate from a professional to help determine if police reporting or further action is warranted.
Do I need to call the police first or get an estimate first?
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If the damage seems minor, it's generally a good idea to get an estimate first to assess the extent of the damage and cost of repairs. If it's substantial, you can then decide if police involvement is needed.
Will moving my car from the scene invalidate the claim before a Maryland police officer looks at the car?
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Moving your car from the scene generally doesn't invalidate a claim if there's no police involvement required for minor damage. However, it's wise to document the damage with photos before moving the car to ensure you have evidence for any insurance claims.
What is considered a major damage for police to come out?
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In Maryland, "major damage" that typically prompts police involvement includes:
- Damage resulting from a criminal act, like vandalism.
- Significant damage that affects the vehicle’s functionality or safety.
- Damage involving public property or resulting in a dispute.
For minor damages, like paint chips, police might not be necessary unless there's a conflict.
What if the children playing outside were being watched by adults and the adults said nothing about it?
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If adults were present and said nothing, it might suggest negligence on their part. However, unless the damage is significant or intentional, it may not warrant police involvement. You could discuss the situation with those adults to resolve the matter amicably or consider small claims court if needed.
How do you know if the damage was intentional?
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Intentional damage can be difficult to prove, but you can consider:
- Witness statements or video evidence showing deliberate actions.
- Consistent patterns of behavior or past incidents involving the same individuals.
- Context of the situation, such as any disputes or motives.
Do you have any evidence or witness statements regarding the incident?
I only have video evidence.
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Video evidence can be useful in determining intent, but proving intentional property damage can still be challenging. Consider reviewing the video for any clear signs of deliberate actions. You might also use the video as part of negotiations with the responsible parties or in small claims court. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!