How To Obtain a Car Accident Report in California

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers | March 3, 2025 | Car Accidents

How To Obtain a Car Accident Report in California

Were you in a car accident in California? You’ll need to get a California accident report to protect yourself legally and financially. 

Why You Need an Accident Report

Police reports serve as key documents for your case. Insurance companies often ask for these reports before processing claims. They can make your position much stronger when seeking payment. Here are the key elements these reports usually contain:

  • Clear accident details and official records
  • Witness statements and contact information
  • Officer notes and early fault-finding
  • Road and weather conditions at the time
  • Vehicle damage descriptions

These records form a strong base for building your insurance claim or injury case. Without an official report, you may find it hard to prove the facts of your accident.

If an accident causes any injuries or deaths, you must call the police right away—usually by dialing 911. If police don’t make a report at the scene, the Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to file a Traffic Accident Report (SR1 form) within 10 days when:

  • Anyone is hurt or killed in the accident
  • Property damage, including vehicle damage, is over $1,000

Not reporting an accident as required can lead to serious problems, including losing your license and other penalties. Make sure you file on time to follow California Vehicle Code rules, no matter who was at fault.

Ways To Get Your California Police Report

There are several ways to get your California police report after an accident. Each option has different steps and wait times.

In-Person Requests

When you visit the police station in person, bring these items with you for the fastest service:

  • Date, time, and place of the accident
  • Names of people involved
  • Your driver’s license or ID
  • Money for the report fee ($10-25)

When you go in person, most police stations can give you your report within 2-3 business days. This makes them the best choice when you need the report quickly.

Online Requests

Many California police departments now let you request reports online through their websites. This works well if you can’t visit in person. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) offers its reports through its Collision Report Request System. Local police often have similar systems on their websites.

If you’re not sure which police department handled your accident, don’t worry. Any local police records office can point you to the right place. Online requests usually take 5-10 business days.

Written Requests

Written requests need careful attention to make sure they get processed right. This method works well if you can’t go online or visit in person. Before mailing your request, gather these items:

  • A form with your notarized signature
  • Copy of your ID
  • Money order or check for the fee
  • Self-addressed stamped envelope
  • Basic accident info (date, time, place)

Written requests take longer than other methods, usually 15-20 business days.

Fixing Mistakes in Your Report

Sometimes, accident reports have errors that could hurt your case. Check your report carefully when you get it to find any mistakes. Common errors in accident reports include:

  • Wrong vehicle info or license plate numbers
  • Incorrect insurance details
  • Misspelled names
  • Wrong accident drawings
  • Incorrect time, date, or location

If you find errors, contact the police station right away. Most have ways to fix reports if you can prove the correct information. Acting quickly is important, as fixes get harder over time.

Common Challenges and How To Overcome Them

Getting an accident report can sometimes be tricky. Being ready for these challenges will help you handle them better. Problems you might run into include:

  • Delays due to too many requests
  • Wrong information in your request
  • Missing papers the police need
  • Mistakes in processing your request

To deal with these issues, keep good records of all your talks with the police. Follow up often on your request status, and ask to speak with a supervisor if needed. Having complete and correct information when you first ask for your report can prevent delays. A good lawyer can also help you get your report faster.

Contact the Car accident Law Firm of Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000