How to Obtain and Understand Police Accident Report in Houston TX

At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston car accident and injury attorneys understand the vital role that a police accident report plays in Texas personal injury claims. After a crash, this document provides an official account of the incident, often serving as crucial evidence in proving liability and supporting your compensation claim.

Whether you’re a Texas resident or an out-of-state visitor injured in a Texas accident, obtaining and understanding your police accident report is critical in pursuing justice.

Here, our Harris County personal injury lawyers explain.

Why Is a Texas Police Accident Report Important?

A police accident report is a detailed record created by the responding law enforcement officer at the crash scene.

This report often includes:

• Facts About the Accident: Time, location, and parties involved.
• Descriptions of Injuries and Damages: Observations about injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
• Witness Information: Statements and contact details of any witnesses.
• Officer’s Narrative: A summary of the officer’s observations and any citations issued.

For Texas personal injury claims, this document can:

• Establish liability by providing an unbiased account of the crash.
• Serve as evidence in settlement negotiations with insurance companies.
• Support your case in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

How to Obtain a Police Accident Report in Texas

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, obtaining a police accident report is vital in pursuing your personal injury claim. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we recognize the importance of this document as evidence in determining liability and building a solid case. Whether you’re a Texas resident or an out-of-state visitor injured in our state, we’re here to guide you through obtaining your accident report.

Each law enforcement agency in Texas has its process for providing accident reports, depending on where the crash occurred. Below are the general steps for obtaining your report, whether your accident was handled by a local police department, county sheriff’s office, or the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Online Requests

You can request your report through the Texas Crash Records Information System (CRIS) for accidents investigated by the Texas DPS. Many local police departments and sheriff’s offices provide online portals for accident report requests.

To complete your online request, you’ll generally need:

• Crash Report Number or Case Number, if provided by the investigating officer.
• Your full name and the names of other parties involved.
• The date and location of the accident.

By Mail

You can send a written request to the law enforcement agency that filed the report.

Be sure to include:

• A completed accident report request form (available from most agencies, such as the Texas DPS CR-91 form).
• A check or money order for the required fee (usually $6 to $8).
• A self-addressed, stamped envelope for returning the report.

Mailing addresses and forms are typically available on the agency’s website or by contacting their records division directly.

In Person

Visit the local police department, sheriff’s office, or Texas DPS office where the report was filed. Bring the necessary information, including your case number, names of involved parties, and the crash date and location. Payment is typically required at the time of your request.

At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand that navigating the process of obtaining an accident report can be overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from injuries or are unfamiliar with Texas laws. Our team can handle the process for you, ensuring the report is promptly secured and used effectively to support your claim.

Texas Accident Report Requirements

Under Texas law, investigating officers must file crash reports within 10 days for accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If your accident falls under these criteria, waiting at least 10 days ensures the report is available before you make your request.

What If There’s an Error in the Police Report?

While police reports are crucial, they aren’t infallible. If you notice inaccuracies or missing information, it’s essential to address them. Our attorneys can help you take steps to amend the report or provide additional evidence to clarify the facts of the case.

Serving All of Texas, Visitors and Residents Alike

Whether you’re a Texas resident or a visitor injured in the state, having your accident report is essential in building your case. As experienced personal injury attorneys in Texas, we have the knowledge and resources to handle every aspect of your claim, from requesting your accident report to securing the compensation you deserve.

With decades of combined experience handling personal injury claims across Texas, Hollingsworth Law Firm knows how to maximize the value of a police accident report in your case. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court, our team ensures every detail is leveraged to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Attorney at Hollingsworth Law FirmToday

If you’ve been injured in a crash, let Hollingsworth Law Firm guide you through the claims process. From obtaining your police accident report to building a solid case, we’re here to help. Call us today at 713-637-4560 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Our experienced and bilingual personal injury attorneys and dedicated support staff proudly serve clients across Texas. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully secure compensation for you. With Hollingsworth Law Firm, you can focus on recovery while we handle the rest. Let us take the lead.