If you’ve been involved in a car accident, one of the most important documents you’ll need is the police report. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, physical injuries, or emotional trauma, the police report serves as a crucial piece of evidence when filing insurance claims or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. But the main questions is: how to get a police report after an accident?
At My Super Lawyer, we know how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can be. That’s why we created this step-by-step guide to help you understand how to get your police report and use it to protect your rights. We also explain how a trusted injury lawyer can use this report to build a strong case on your behalf.
Why Is a Police Report So Important?
Before diving into how to get one, it’s essential to understand why a police report matters so much in an injury claim. A police report is the official record of your accident. It includes vital information such as:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Contact and insurance information for all drivers involved
- Names and statements of witnesses
- Diagrams of the accident scene
- Citations issued (if any)
- The officer’s initial assessment of fault
Insurance companies and lawyers rely heavily on police reports to determine liability and evaluate damages. In many cases, the outcome of a claim can hinge on what’s written in this report. If you plan to pursue compensation for your injuries, having a copy of this document is critical.
Step 1: Make Sure a Police Report Was Filed
Not every accident automatically results in a police report. In some jurisdictions, police only respond to crashes involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. If law enforcement did come to the scene, a report was likely filed. But if you’re unsure, you can contact the responding police department to ask if a report exists.
If the police were not called to the scene, and you’ve already left, you may still be able to file a report after the fact. Many departments allow you to report an accident in person or online within a certain time frame (typically 24–72 hours after the incident).
Step 2: Identify the Jurisdiction That Responded
To obtain the correct report, you’ll need to know which law enforcement agency responded to the crash. This could be:
- Local city police
- County sheriff’s office
- State highway patrol (especially for freeway accidents)
You can usually find this information on any paperwork given to you at the scene or by checking the location where the accident occurred. Once you identify the right agency, you’ll be able to move forward with requesting the report.
Step 3: Wait for the Report to Be Processed
Most police departments require several business days to process a report before it becomes available to the public. In some cases, it may take up to two weeks. If you’re dealing with a severe injury, this wait can feel frustrating—but it’s important not to rush the process.
During this time, the officer will review their notes, finalize the report, and have it approved by a supervisor. Once the report is filed and reviewed, it can be released to the involved parties, their legal representatives, and sometimes insurance providers.
Step 4: Request Your Police Report
There are three main ways to obtain your police report:
A. Online
Many police departments now offer online portals where you can request and download your accident report. You’ll typically need to provide:
- Your name
- Date of the accident
- Location of the crash
- Report number (if known)
There may be a small fee (usually $5–$25) for accessing the report.
B. In Person
You can also visit the law enforcement agency in person and request a copy. Be sure to bring valid identification and any relevant information about the crash. Some departments only allow walk-in requests during business hours, so check their schedule ahead of time.
C. By Mail
If you’re unable to go in person or use an online portal, you can request the report by mail. This method takes the longest and may require you to include a self-addressed stamped envelope, a check or money order for the fee, and written details about the crash.
Step 5: Review the Report for Accuracy
Once you have your police report, read it carefully. Look for any mistakes or missing information, especially regarding:
- The spelling of names
- The type of vehicles involved
- The diagram of the accident
- Witness statements
- The officer’s narrative
If you notice any errors, contact the department to request a correction or supplement. While the report itself may not be changed, you can often add a statement or submit additional documentation to clarify your side of the story.
Step 6: Share the Report with Your Lawyer
If you’re pursuing an injury claim, your lawyer will need to review the police report immediately. This document can help:
- Determine who was at fault
- Identify additional witnesses
- Support your version of events
- Provide leverage in negotiations with the insurance company
A good lawyer will also use the report to spot any red flags or inconsistencies that could be used against you—and take action to address them.
What If the Police Report Isn’t Favorable?
Don’t panic. While a police report is influential, it’s not the final word. Officers can make mistakes, overlook details, or even draw the wrong conclusions. A skilled injury attorney can present additional evidence—such as surveillance footage, expert testimony, or crash reconstruction—to challenge the report and strengthen your case.
Can I Still Get Compensation Without a Police Report?
Yes, but it may be harder. If a report was never filed or is unavailable, you can still pursue compensation using:
- Medical records
- Photos and videos of the accident
- Witness testimony
- Repair estimates
- Your own written statement
However, the absence of a police report may raise questions about the legitimacy or severity of your claim. That’s why it’s always better to have one, when possible.
Let My Super Lawyer Help You Take the Next Step
Getting a police report after a car accident is just the beginning of your legal journey. What you do next can determine whether you recover fair compensation—or end up footing the bill for someone else’s mistake.
At My Super Lawyer, we connect injury victims with the best legal representation for their case. Whether you were rear-ended at a red light, T-boned in an intersection, or hit by a distracted driver, we help you match with a top-rated attorney who knows how to win.
Why My Super Lawyer?
Here’s why thousands of injured victims trust My Super Lawyer:
- 99% Success Rate – Our network of lawyers knows how to deliver results.
- Over $2 Billion Won – We’ve helped secure life-changing settlements and verdicts.
- Personalized Matching – We don’t just find a lawyer. We find the right lawyer for you.
- Free Case Review – You pay nothing unless your lawyer wins your case.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident and don’t know where to turn, start with My Super Lawyer. We’ll help you get the police report, legal support, and financial recovery you deserve.
