How to Request a Copy of Florida Accident Reports

Key Information: Florida Accident Reports

• Confidential for 60 Days: Accessible only to involved parties, insurers, or legal representatives during this period. Public access begins after 60 days.
• How to Request: Submit your request online via the FLHSMV Crash Report Portal, by mail, or in person. Provide ID and pay a $6–$12 fee.
• Timeline: Immediate access online; 3–5 days for mail or in-person; 60 days for public access.
• Why It’s Important: Essential for insurance claims, legal purposes, or personal records.

No one wants nor deserves to be dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Florida. Yet, in the moments after, obtaining your accident report is crucial. This document provides essential details about the incident, which can help you with insurance claims, legal actions, or simply clarifying what happened.

We’ll explain how to request your Florida accident report and the timeline for obtaining one, as well as answer some of the most common questions about the process.

We know how challenging it can be to think about accident reports, especially after, so we’re here to help.

What Are Florida Accident Reports?

Florida accident reports—also known as Florida motor vehicle accident reports—are official documents prepared by law enforcement officers after a car crash. These reports include crucial information, such as:

• Details of the vehicles, drivers, and passengers involved.
• Statements from any witnesses or parties involved.
• A diagram or description of how the accident occurred.

In the state of Florida, accident reports are required for crashes resulting in injury, death, or property damages exceeding $500, as per Florida Statute §316.066.

Are Florida Accident Reports Public Record?

Yes, Florida car accident reports are public records—but with restrictions. Under Florida law, the reports are confidential for the first 60 days after a crash. During this period, they are only accessible to the specific parties involved, such as:

• Drivers, passengers, and their legal representatives.
• Insurance companies handling client claims related to the accident.
• Certain journalists or investigators.

After 60 days, these reports become publicly available and can be accessed by anyone.

How Do I Get a Copy of My Florida Accident Report?

Thankfully, requesting your Florida traffic accident report is a straightforward process. Here are the main steps:

1. Identify the Reporting Agency

Determine whether local police handled the accident, the sheriff’s office, or the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

2. Choose a Request Method

You can request your report online, by mail, or in person:

• Online: Most agencies, such as the Florida Crash Portal, offer an online portal.
• In Person: Visit the law enforcement office that filed your report.
• By Mail: Send a written request and payment (if applicable).

3. Provide Identification

During confidentiality, you must show proof of involvement, such as a driver’s license or case number.

4. Pay Any Fees

In Florida, most agencies charge a fee, usually between $6 and $12, for copies of car accident reports.

How to Retrieve Your Crash Report Online

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) provides an easy way to obtain your car accident reports in Florida via their online portal. To retrieve your accident report, follow these steps:

1. Visit the FLHSMV Crash Report Portal.
2. Enter key details such as the crash date, location, and report number (if you know it).
3. Verify your identity if the report is still within the 60-day confidentiality period.
4. Pay the required fee.
5. Download your report directly from the portal.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Florida Crash Report?

• Immediately: If you request online and have all the required details, you can often download your report instantly.
• 3-5 Business Days: Mail and in-person requests typically take a few days to process.
• 60 Days: If you’re a third party without a direct role in the crash, you must wait until the confidentiality period ends.

Can You Get a Police Report After a Crash in Florida?

Yes, you can access a police report after an accident in Florida. Police departments typically release reports directly, or they will refer you to the FLHSMV for retrieval. You must provide as much information as possible when making your request. Remember to include:

• The date and location of the accident.
• The names of the drivers involved.
• The report or case number, if available.

Tips for Handling Your Florida Traffic Accident Report

Obtaining your report is only part of the process. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Review the Report for Accuracy: Check the details for errors, such as incorrect names, vehicle descriptions, or crash details. Mistakes could impact your insurance claim.

2. Share the Report with Your Insurance Company: Most insurers require a copy to process claims, so provide it promptly.

3. Keep Multiple Copies: Save physical and digital copies for your records and future legal needs.

Take Control of Your Accident Recovery

Requesting your Florida accident report is a vital step toward resolving the emotional aftermath of a car accident. Whether you need it for your insurance or legal proceedings, having the correct information at your fingertips can make the difference between further stress and navigating smoothly through the entire process so you can get back to what is important to you: your recovery and well-being.

Learn how to access your report today and take control of your recovery journey! With Auto Accident Reports by your side, we can guide you during this challenging time.