How to Get a Police Report for an Accident?
After any crash, obtaining the police report involves contacting the law enforcement agency that handled your accident. Generally, you should identify which police department, sheriff’s office, or state highway patrol responded, and then request the accident report from that agency.
Most departments allow you to request the report online, by mail, or in person. Be ready to provide the crash date, time, location, and the names of the people involved, and pay any required copying fee (often under $20). In short, to get a police accident report, you simply ask the responding agency for it – many now offer online portals or request forms – and supply the relevant accident details.
Once requested, the department will prepare the report (typically within a few days) and give you a copy. This official police report will include all recorded details of the crash, which is vital for insurance claims or any legal action.
A police accident report documents a crash scene with details like vehicle damage, injuries, and witness accounts. It is an authoritative summary of who, what, when, and where, prepared by the officer on site.
For example, it lists every driver, passenger, and vehicle involved, notes road and weather conditions, and may include officer observations or diagrams. Such a report is often the most important evidence after a collision; attorneys and insurers rely on it to verify facts and determine fault.
In practical terms, this means the police report can make or break an insurance claim, so obtaining it promptly and reviewing its accuracy is crucial.
How to Request an Accident Police Report
To actually obtain your report, follow these steps:
- Identify the responding agency. Determine whether your crash was handled by city police, county sheriff, state patrol, or another agency. Call that agency’s records department or check their website.
- Choose a request method. Many law enforcement agencies now let you order the report online. Otherwise, you can visit the police station’s records office or mail a request form. City websites often have “Request Police Reports” instructions.
- Provide the required information. When requesting the report, supply the crash details: date, time and location of the accident, driver names or license numbers, and any report or case number you were given. Having these on hand will speed up processing.
- Pay any fee. Many departments charge a nominal fee for copies, commonly between $5 and $25. You can usually pay by credit card online, or by check, cash, or money order as instructed.
- Wait for processing. Officers usually file the completed report within a few days. You may not get it immediately at the scene. Expect a wait of at least 3 to 7 days before the report is finalized. After that, you will receive the copy by your chosen method.
These steps apply everywhere in the U.S., though specific portals and forms will vary by state and locality. If you are unsure which agency handled your crash, contact your state DMV or police non-emergency number for guidance. Always double-check the accident report’s accuracy after you obtain it. If you spot an error, you can ask the officer to correct it by providing supporting evidence.
Who Can Obtain the Police Report
Not everyone can get a copy of any police report. U.S. law generally restricts access to those directly involved and related parties. Specifically, only the crash drivers, passengers, their insurance companies, or their legal representatives are entitled to the report. Some states may include additional officials or crash investigators.
In other words, if you were driving or riding in the vehicles, you can get the report. Your insurer can also obtain it if you give them permission. Unrelated third parties typically cannot access your accident report. This is because the report contains sensitive personal and incident details.
Costs and Timing
Each agency sets its own fees and processing times. In many places, you will pay a small charge, often under $20, for the report. In rare cases, large or older reports may cost more. Always ask about fees upfront. Once requested, reports are usually completed and released within about 3 to 7 days. Very simple accidents may even be ready in 24 to 48 hours, but complex or high-volume departments can take longer, sometimes weeks. The key is to request the report as soon as possible. You cannot get a same-day copy at the crash scene, as officers must file and process the report first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a police report after a car accident?
It varies by agency, but typically expect at least a few days. Most departments complete and release reports within 3 to 7 days. Very minor crashes may yield faster turnaround, while serious accidents involving injuries or extensive investigation can take longer. If you need it quickly, politely follow up with the records office after a week. In any case, you usually cannot get the report immediately at the scene, as officers must file it first.
Who is allowed to request a police accident report?
U.S. law limits access. Only those directly involved in the crash, such as drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, along with their insurers or lawyers, can legally obtain the report. If you were at the accident, you qualify. You can also authorize your attorney or insurance company to get the report on your behalf. Other parties, such as unrelated individuals or the media, are generally not entitled to a copy.
Do I need a police report for an insurance claim?
Yes. In almost all cases, insurance companies will request and expect the police report when you file a claim. The report provides an official account of the crash details, which insurers use to verify facts and assign fault. Without a filed police report, your claim may be delayed or even denied. Many insurers will not process a crash claim without one, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
Is there a fee to get a police accident report?
Yes, most jurisdictions charge a small fee for a copy of the police report. This fee varies widely, often between $5 and $25, depending on the department and format. You will typically be notified of the fee when you request the report. Be prepared to pay by whatever methods the agency accepts. Keep your receipt, as you may need to show proof of payment to receive the report.
What information do I need to request a police report?
When you ask for the report, the more information you give, the easier it is to locate. At minimum, provide the date, time, and location of the accident, along with the names of the drivers involved. If you have it, include the police case number or report number. Also give any badge number or precinct if known, but date and location are most important. Having all these details on hand will make it much easier for the agency to find your report in their records and send you a copy.
