Any time you are injured in a car accident, it is a good idea to obtain your car accident report from the local police station. Your accident report provides important details and evidence that could assist with your case. Having access to this document could make a massive difference in how much financial compensation you receive for your pain and suffering. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get access to this file.
What Do I Need to Obtain a Copy of My Houston Accident Report?
There are a few essential details and documents you will need to obtain a copy of your Houston car accident report. That includes:
- Your name and the names of any other drivers involved in the accident
- The date and the location o the car accident
- Name and contact information of the reporting officer who was on the scene.
While it is always a good idea to get your claim started with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible, do keep in mind that it can take several days following your accident for your report to be available. The police station should be able to provide you with some information about when you can access your report when you give them a call.
How to Get Your Houston Police Accident Report
If you need your accident report, there are several ways to get one.
In-Person
If you would like to get a copy of your accident report in person, you can visit your local police station and walk in to pick up the document yourself. That can be done any time during regular business hours, and it is one of the fastest ways to guarantee you gain access to your accident report.
Online
Electronic copies of your report may also be available from the police station in the county where your accident took place. These electronic copies are provided in conjunction with the Texas Department of Transportation. The reports are generally available to view online within 14 days following the accident. You can view your copy by going online and visiting the TxDOT Crash Records Information System website. There you can download a PDF copy to print out. You can get an uncertified copy of the report for $6 and a certified copy for $8.
By Mail
If you are unable to pick up a copy of your police report in person or obtain one online, you can request a copy is mailed to you by filling out a CR-91 form and mailing it in along with your payment to:
Crash Data and Analysis
Texas Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 12879
Austin, TX 78711
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer for Assistance with Your Accident Report
If you have any issues getting your police report by following the above methods, you can speak with your personal injury lawyer for assistance. They will be able to get the document for you at no additional cost.
It’s essential to consult with a personal injury lawyer after you are involved in a car accident in Houston. The faster you are in contact with a lawyer, the better off you will be when it comes to getting back the financial compensation you deserve. You have the option to get your car accident police report on your own, or you can have your personal injury lawyer take care of that task for you. Whichever method you choose, it is always a good idea to consult with a legal professional following an accident. Doing so will help you learn more about what your options are when it comes to filing a case.