How to Get a Car Accident Report? Step-by-Step Process

A car accident report is an essential document that outlines details about a crash, including the parties involved, damages, and any law enforcement findings.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 6 million car accidents occur in the U.S. annually. However, many people are still unaware of how to obtain a copy of their accident report and what procedures it requires. But don’t worry!

Below, we’ll outline how to get a car accident report, who can request it, and what steps it requires.

What is a Car Accident Report?

Alt Text: A car accident report.

A car accident report is typically prepared by the responding law enforcement officer about the whole incident, and an auto accident attorney needs it to understand the case. It includes:

●      Details of the Incident: Time, date, and location of the accident.

●      Parties Involved: Names, contact information, and insurance details of drivers, passengers, and witnesses.

●      Narrative of Events: The officer's account of the accident, including diagrams or sketches.

●      Environmental Conditions: Weather, road conditions, and visibility during the accident.

●      Citations Issued: Any traffic violations or charges filed as a result of the accident.

For most insurance claims, an accident report isn’t mandatory, but it can speed up the car accident settlement process and help determine liability.

Who Can Request a Car Accident Report?

Not everyone can access accident reports freely. Most states restrict who can request a copy to protect privacy. Generally, the following parties are allowed to obtain a report:

●      Drivers involved in the accident

●      Passengers or vehicle owners

●      Legal representatives (Personal injury attorney)

●      Insurance companies handling the claim

●      Law enforcement agencies

●      Government agencies

Some states allow family members of victims to request reports, but restrictions may apply. For example, in California, only people directly involved in the accident or their attorneys can request a copy. However, in Florida, accident reports become public records after 60 days.

Where Can You Get a Car Accident Report?

Alt Text: Police inquiring about the accident.

Here are a few places from where you can get a car accident report:

1. Local Police Department

If law enforcement responded to the accident, visit the police department that handled the case. Most agencies have a Records Division where you can request a copy. Some require in-person visits by the victim or your personal injury lawyer, while others allow phone or mail requests.

Example: In New York City, you can request accident reports from the NYC Police Department’s Records Unit either in person or online.

2. State DMV or Highway Patrol

Many states store accident reports in their DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or Highway Patrol databases. Some allow you or your personal damage lawyer to request a report online or by mail, though processing times vary.

Example: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) maintains records for accidents that occurred on highways and allows individuals to request a report by mail.

3. Online Accident Report Portals

Several states provide accident reports through online third-party platforms or state-run databases. If available, this is usually the fastest way to obtain a report.

Example: In Texas, you can order accident reports online through the TxDOT Crash Report Online Purchase System.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Request a Car Accident Report

Alt Text: Police headquarters for getting a car accident report.

The process may vary depending on the state, but the general steps remain the same. Let’s explain them carefully so you or your personal injury law firm can quickly obtain your report in the most convenient way possible.

Option 1: Requesting a Car Accident Report in Person

Requesting your accident report in person is often the quickest method, especially if you need it urgently. Most police departments, sheriff’s offices, or state highway patrol agencies have a records division where you can obtain a copy.

Find Out Where to Go

If a local police officer responded to your accident, visit the corresponding city police department. However, if the state highway patrol responded to the incident, you’ll need to visit their regional office. Ask your personal attorney to check the police report slip given to you at the scene if you’re unsure which agency handled the report. You can also call the non-emergency police number to seek assistance.

Provide Necessary Information

The officer at the record department will need specific details to locate the report. Provide the date and time of the accident, the location where the accident happened, or the case number, if available.

If the case was about distracted driving, such as texting while driving, the accident report may contain notations from the officer, witness statements, or phone usage

Pay Fees and Receive Your Report

Many law enforcement agencies charge a small fee for providing copies of accident reports. This can range from $5 to $25, depending on the location. In most cases, you will receive your report immediately or within a few business days.

Option 2: Requesting a Car Accident Report Online

Many states and cities allow online requests for accident reports. This is an excellent option if you live far from the police department or prefer not to visit in person. Follow these steps to request a report online:

Find the Official Website

Go to the law enforcement agency’s website (e.g., your state’s DMV, highway patrol, or local police department). Some states also use third-party websites for report requests. Ensure the website is official and secure before submitting personal information.

Enter the Required Information

To locate your report, you’ll typically need:

●      The date and location of the accident

●      Names of drivers involved

●      The report number (if available)

●      Your contact details

Verify Your Identity and Pay the Fee

Verify your identity as it’s required by some online systems. To do this, upload a copy of your driver’s license or answer security questions.

You’ll then have to pay around $5 to $25, which you can easily transfer via credit or debit card. In most cases, reports are available instantly after payment, and you can get them via email.

For instance, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) allows drivers to purchase crash reports online for $6 per copy.

Get Your Accident Report & Protect Your Rights

A police accident report is more than just paperwork—it’s a key piece of evidence that can support your insurance claim, prove liability, and help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Without it, you may face challenges in getting full reimbursement for your vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering.

If you need any help with your accident claim, call the Auto Accident Help Desk now at (800) 636-8833. We have the best accident attorneys who offer free, no-obligation consultations.

FAQs

1. Can I get a car accident report if I wasn’t directly involved in the crash?

Yes, but it depends on the state’s privacy laws. Some states allow family members, attorneys, or insurance companies to request a report, while others restrict access to only those directly involved in the accident. In California, for example, only the drivers, passengers, vehicle owners, or their legal representatives can request a report.

2. How long after an accident can I request a report?

Most car accident reports are available after they’re officially registered in around 3 to 10 business days. After that, you or your attorney can easily request a report at any time. However, for older reports, you might have to make a formal request and pay a fee. Some states don’t keep the report for long, such as in New York, reports are kept for 4 years only.

---