Car accidents happen every day in Florida, and when you’re involved in one, there’s a lot to manage afterward. Among the important tasks is obtaining a Florida crash report, a document you’ll need for insurance claims or potential legal steps. While the process might seem like another item on your to-do list, it’s actually straightforward. In this blog, South Florida car accident attorney Deirdre DiBiaggio walks you through how to obtain a Florida crash report and provides clear steps to ensure you have the information you need.
Why a Crash Report Matters
Before we explain how to get a crash report, it’s important to know why you need one. A crash report, also known as an accident report, is an official document created by law enforcement officers who come to the accident scene. This important document includes key information about what happened, such as:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Details of vehicles involved
- Names and contact information of drivers and passengers
- Description of injuries and property damage
- Diagram of the accident scene
- Witness statements
- Officer’s observations and potential citations
This information can be vital for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and personal records.
When to Expect the Crash Report
In Florida, law enforcement officers are required to file a crash report within 10 days of the accident if the crash involves injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. For very minor accidents, a report may not always be filed by law enforcement. However, it’s important to note that the report may not be immediately available to the public. Florida law mandates a 60-day confidentiality period for crash reports. During this time, only certain individuals can access the report, including:
- Parties involved in the crash
- Their legal representatives
- Insurance companies
- Law enforcement agencies
This 60-day period begins after the report is filed, not necessarily the date of the accident. After the 60-day period, the report becomes public record and can be accessed by anyone.
Ways to Get Your Florida Crash Report
1. Online Through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Website
The most convenient way to get your crash report is through the official FLHSMV website. Here’s how:
- Visit the FLHSMV Crash Portal
- Click on “Purchase Crash Report”
- Enter the required information (date of crash, county, your last name, and either the report number or your driver’s license number)
- Pay the fee (typically $10) using a credit card
- Download your report
This online option is available 24/7 and gives you immediate access to your report after purchase.
2. In Person at the Local Law Enforcement Agency
If you prefer a face-to-face interaction or don’t have internet access, you can obtain the report directly from the law enforcement agency that responded to your accident. Follow these steps:
- Identify the agency that handled your accident (e.g., local police department, sheriff’s office, or Florida Highway Patrol)
- Visit their office during business hours
- Provide identifying information about the crash (date, location, names of involved parties)
- Pay the required fee (usually $10 to $15)
- Receive a copy of the report
It’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm fees and the availability of the report to avoid unnecessary trips. Remember to bring a valid form of identification when requesting the report in person.
3. By Mail
If you’re unable to visit in person or use the online portal, you can request the report by mail. Here’s what you need to do:
- Write a letter requesting the crash report, including:
- Date and location of the crash
- Names of involved parties
- Your contact information
- Include a check or money order for the fee (confirm the amount with the agency
- Mail your request to the appropriate law enforcement agency
Be aware that this method may take several weeks to process. Before mailing your request, it’s advisable to contact the agency directly to confirm the fee and ensure that your request is complete.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Crash Report
If you’ve tried these options and still can’t locate your report, consider these additional steps:
- Double-check the information you’re using to search (date, location, names)
- Contact the law enforcement agency directly to inquire about the status of your report
- If the accident occurred recently, remember the 10-day filing period and 60-day confidentiality period—your report might not be available yet
- Consider the possibility that a report wasn’t filed (for very minor accidents, officers may not always complete a report)
Using Your Crash Report
Once you’ve obtained your Florida crash report, review it carefully for accuracy. If you find any errors, contact the law enforcement agency that filed the report to request corrections. Keep the report in a safe place and make copies for your insurance company, attorney, or other parties as needed.
It’s important to note that the crash report is often used as part of settlement negotiations, but it may not always be admissible as evidence in court due to hearsay rules. Insurance companies and courts will use this report along with other evidence to make determinations about your case.
By following these steps, you’ll be prepared to obtain your Florida crash report and use it appropriately. This information plays a key role in managing the aftermath of a car accident and ensures you have all necessary documentation for potential legal proceedings or insurance claims.
Injured by a Negligent Driver? Your Next Steps Matter
Now that you know how to obtain your Florida crash report, it’s crucial to consider your next move, especially if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s careless driving. While getting the crash report is an important first step, navigating the legal landscape that follows can be complex and overwhelming.
At DiBiaggio Law, we understand the challenges you’re facing. Deirdre DiBiaggio, an experienced West Palm Beach injury attorney, can guide you through the crucial steps after you’ve secured your crash report. Our team will review the report with you, helping you understand its implications for your case. We’ll use this information, along with other evidence, to build a strong claim on your behalf.
Don’t let the negligent driver’s insurance company undervalue your claim or pressure you into a quick settlement. Your health and future are too important. Contact DiBiaggio Law today at (561) 473-9800 or complete our online form for a FREE, no-obligation consultation with a South Florida auto accident attorney. We’ll assess your situation, explain your rights, and show you how we can fight for the compensation you need to recover.
Time is critical in injury cases. The sooner you reach out after obtaining your crash report, the better we can protect your interests. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way towards justice and fair compensation.
Copyright © 2024. DiBiaggio Law. All rights reserved.
The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
DiBiaggio Law
605 Belvedere Road, Suite 17
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
(561) 473-9800
https://dibiaggiolaw.com
