Steps to Access Your Car Crash Report
Learn how to access your car accident report efficiently through the DMV. The article explains steps, typical wait times, and costs involved in obtaining a detailed report for legal or insurance purposes.
Steps to Access Your Car Crash Report
Obtaining a detailed car accident report is essential for insurance claims or legal proceedings. These reports contain crucial information about the incident, including vehicle details, driver information, witnesses, and police investigations. Clear records of the accident type and damage extent are vital for building a strong case.
Common types of accidents covered are rear-end crashes, weather-related incidents, T-bone and intersection collisions, lane change impacts, and minor everyday fender benders.
To request your accident report from the DMV, follow these steps. The DMV maintains a comprehensive database of accident records accessible to the public.
Here’s how to get your report:
Visit the official DMV website and locate the section labeled “Order and access motor vehicle accident reports.” A fee of $7 applies, payable via search using your case number, license plate, or driver's license.
It typically takes between 14 to 30 days for your report to become available. Electronic filings are processed within 14 days, while physical submissions may take up to 30 days. Overall, expect at least 60 days for the record to appear in the system.
In addition to the $7 search fee, a further $15 is required to purchase a copy of your report. The search fee is non-refundable whether or not the report is found.
If you prefer, you can request the report by mail, which involves a $10 search fee plus $15 for the physical copy. This method allows you to obtain your accident report without accessing the online platform.
