If you are involved in a traffic collision, getting a copy of the accident report is an important step for both legal purposes and insurance claims. In California, there are specific procedures you need to follow to access these records.
Step 1: Report the Accident to Authorities and the DMV
State law requires that any crash involving injury, death, or more than one thousand dollars in property damage be reported to law enforcement within 24 hours. This may be the California Highway Patrol or your local police department.
You must also complete and submit an SR 1 form to the Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days of the collision. This is necessary even if an officer has already filed a report. Failing to submit the form can result in a suspension of your driver’s license.
Step 2: Requesting the Official Report
If the California Highway Patrol investigated the crash, you can request the report online through the CHP Crash Portal. Drivers who were given a crash card at the scene can often access the report for free by scanning the code. You can also request a report by completing form CHP 190 and submitting it in person or by mail to the CHP office that handled the investigation. Fees vary depending on the length of the report.
If your accident was investigated by a local police department such as the Los Angeles Police Department, reports may be requested online, by mail, or in person. Some reports involving fatalities, arrests, or minors must be requested by mail. Fees are typically modest, and processing can take several weeks.
Other jurisdictions in California, such as Riverside or Woodland, have similar processes, usually offering online portals along with mail and in person requests. Fees often range between five and twenty dollars depending on the city.
Step 3: Why the Report Matters
An accident report includes key details such as the time and location of the crash, information about everyone involved, witness statements, citations issued, and officer observations. This information is crucial when establishing fault, supporting insurance claims, and pursuing compensation through legal action.
Summary of Steps
- Report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours and file the SR 1 form with the DMV within ten days.
- Determine which agency investigated the crash.
- Request the report online, by mail, or in person through that agency.
- Provide identification and pay the applicable fee.
- Keep the report for insurance and legal purposes.
Final Thoughts
Having a traffic accident report can make a major difference in protecting your rights after a crash. It provides documented evidence that may be essential in dealing with insurance companies or in pursuing legal claims. At Hillstone Law, our team can help you obtain these reports and use them effectively to build the strongest possible case for your recovery.
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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.
