Law enforcement is often required to submit a crash report for any vehicle crash resulting in injury or fatality, among various other parameters. However, you are not immediately granted access to your police report.
Fortunately, you can request a copy of your accident report directly from local law enforcement. Obtaining a copy can help if you plan to file a claim or lawsuit. Are you wondering how to get your police accident report? Read on for more information!
How to Obtain an Accident Report?
In the state of Florida, for example, accident reports may take up to 10 days to become available. If you want a copy of your car accident report, you can request it from the local law enforcement. You can typically request a report online for download. In Florida, the report is available immediately via email and must be downloaded within 48 hours.
You can also request a report within 60 days of the date of the crash from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles via mail or in person. For these options, you must also complete a Sworn Statement to Obtain Traffic Crash Report Information form.
Once you provide your identifying details and pay the processing fee and wait for the record, depending on your preferred delivery method.
How Much does a Car Accident Report Cost?
The cost for a crash report in Florida is $10 per report. You will also be charged a two-dollar convenience fee for each transaction through the Florida Crash Portal. Furthermore, you are limited to a maximum of 10 reports per transaction, unless requested at the FHP Troop Station nearest the scene of the accident.
The cost of an accident report varies from state to state. You can contact your law enforcement office to determine the exact cost of your report.
What Information does a Police Accident Report Contain?
A police report contains various vital details about a car accident. The information collected at an accident scene can help establish which party is at fault.
First, it mentions the vehicles involved in the collision, their make, model, and registration numbers. It will also indicate the date and time the incident occurred. Other details may include:
- The location of the accident
- Names and contact information of the involved drivers
- Details from witnesses at the scene
- Accounts of the incident by all parties
- Diagram of the crash
- Weather conditions during the collision
The report may also mention if any involved motorist broke traffic rules, such as speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Car accidents often cause damage and displace debris at the scene. The responding police officers may also mention any destruction on the vehicles and surrounding property. Further, they will likely capture images of the damage and other aspects, such as tire skid marks.
Is It Compulsory to Have a Car Accident Report When Filing a Claim?
It is not compulsory to have a police report when filing a car accident claim. However, presenting this document can help you strengthen your case and possibly speed up the compensation process.
What Evidence Can You Use in a Car Accident Claim?
While a police report is a critical piece of evidence, you may need more proof when filing an auto insurance claim. One item you may also use is a medical report showing the physical harm you sustained from the accident. This document may also mention the treatment you received and prove various health issues resulting from the crash
If an accident leads to significant car damages, you may be able to pursue reimbursement for the repair and replacements costs, depending on your state. You can provide receipts of such expenses provided by your mechanic or repair company. Further, you should back up your claim with images of vehicle damages taken at the scene.
Another item you can use as proof during a car accident claim is a video. If the crash occurred near an intersection or on a busy highway, check for traffic cameras and request authorities to preserve the footage. If the accident happened near a residential area, you may be able to get the footage from homeowners and property managers with CCTV systems and doorbell cameras.
Consult a Lawyer for Your Car Accident Case
A lawyer can help you obtain your police accident report. At the Dolman Law Group, we can also help you gather essential evidence for your case. We will help you identify and prove all sustained to receive fair reimbursement. Call Dolman Law Group today to schedule a free case analysis.