If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, obtaining a copy of the crash report is an important step in your recovery process. This report can serve as a vital piece of evidence for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and resolving disputes. Here’s everything you need to know about obtaining your Texas car accident report.
How Do I Get a Copy of My Texas Crash Report?
All crash reports in Texas are uploaded to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Records Information System (C.R.I.S). You can search for and purchase your crash report on the C.R.I.S. Purchase portal. To conduct a search, all you need is your driver’s license number or the name of the person or company involved in the incident.
Once you find the report, you can purchase a copy. The platform offers regular and certified copies.
Do I Have To Pay For a Copy of The Crash Report?
Yes, you have to pay to receive a copy of the crash report. There are not any free options available. A regular copy costs $6, and a certified copy costs $8. If you just want the report for your own records, a regular copy will suffice. However, if you plan to submit the document to your insurance company or attorney, you’ll need a certified copy.
How Soon Will a Crash Report Be Available?
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, your crash report may not appear in the search results for up to 14 days. However, your report may be available sooner. If your report is still not visible after two weeks, contact the law enforcement agency that completed the original report.
Who Needs a Copy of My Car Accident Report?
You should obtain a copy of your accident report for your own records. You can review the document to verify that it is accurate. Pay close attention to information such as your date of birth, contact information for any witnesses, and the vehicle make and model. Even seemingly minor errors can delay claims processing.
Your insurance company will also need a copy of the crash report. While the company will request a copy, you can provide it with one to speed up the claims filing process.
If you decide to sue the at-fault party, you will also need to provide a copy of the report to your attorney. Make sure you obtain a certified copy. Your lawyer will use the information in the report to build a strong case on your behalf and support claims for compensation due to injuries, pain and suffering, property damage, and medical bills.
What Information Does My Crash Report Contain?
Accident reports include all of the basic information about the incident, including the date, time, and location. The report should also include the vehicles and people who were involved, as well as a diagram of the scene.
The crash report will also include the officer’s observations and the mechanism of impact. Suppose that the other driver rear-ended your car. The officer will document the manner of collision and may even note that their observations are consistent with tailgating or following too closely, which could support your insurance claim.
Why Car Accident Reports Matter
If you are involved in a car accident, you should notify law enforcement right away. The responding officer will generate a formal report, which will be retained by the Texas Department of Transportation. Understanding how to get a copy of your report will help speed up the insurance claims process. The document will also provide critical evidence if you decide to file a lawsuit against the other party.
If you have questions or need help, contact an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer with Benton Accident and Injury Lawyers. We’ll help you get your report and use it to your advantage.
Contact The Dallas Car Accident Law Firm of Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Dallas, TX, contact us for more information, please contact the experienced Dallas car accident lawyers at Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas:
Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers
1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 777-7777
Hours Open: 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Dallas.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.7950252,-96.8241861