Why the Collision Report Matters
A traffic collision report holds key facts about your car accident, and you may need it for insurance claims or legal cases. You won’t automatically receive a copy of the police report at the scene or afterward. You must take steps to get it yourself or have an attorney do so on your behalf.
Creating the Police Report After a Crash
Right after your accident, you should contact law enforcement so an official collision report can be made. If the accident causes injury, death, or property damage over a certain dollar amount, California law requires you to report it. When police arrive, do not admit fault. Tell your side of what happened, and make sure to record the police report number before leaving the scene. If the police do not respond, you may need to file a separate DMV-form report within 10 days.
Who Has the Right to See the Report
Only certain people are entitled to access the traffic collision report. Eligible parties typically include those involved in the crash, property owners damaged, injured persons, legal representatives, and anyone who might be liable.
Ways to Request the Report
Online
The easiest method is online via the Los Angeles Police Department’s system. You’ll need details like your report number, your name with the date of collision, or your name plus the location of the crash. Because of report-processing delays, wait at least about 45 days after the accident before requesting a copy online.
By Mail
If the report involves serious matters like a death, DUI arrest, or someone under 18, you can’t get it online. Older reports (from before a certain date) also require mailed requests. To request by mail, complete the required form and send it with a check or money order (cash usually not accepted) to the police department’s records office.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
If you’d rather have an attorney obtain the report for you, we can assist. We can help make sure it’s requested properly, in a timely manner, and ensure you have all the information you need for your claim or case.
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Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading these posts does not create, and is not intended to create, an attorney-client relationship with Hillstone Law. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public; however, Hillstone Law makes no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided, and expressly disclaims liability for any actions taken in reliance on it. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual clients, individuals, or incidents unless expressly stated. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
