When you’ve been injured in a car accident anywhere in Ohio, you’ll want to attend to your immediate safety first. However, once you’ve called law enforcement to report the crash and obtained necessary medical attention, your next step should be getting a copy of the car accident report, often referred to as a “crash report.”
This document plays a critical role in insurance claims as well as potential legal actions, but accident victims often aren’t sure how to get a copy. In this guide, we’ll show you how to obtain your report and explain why doing so is in your best interest.
Why Is It Important to Get a Crash Report?
A crash report is created by the law enforcement officer who responds to the scene of the accident. It includes important details such as:
- Descriptions of the Accident: The officer will describe how the auto accident occurred, based on their observations and the statements of those involved. This can include the direction each vehicle was traveling, where the impact occurred, and any contributing factors like weather conditions or road hazards.
- Statements from Involved Parties: The report usually includes statements from the drivers, passengers, and any witnesses. These statements can be valuable if there are disputes about what happened.
- Citations or Violations: If any traffic laws were violated, this will be noted in the report. This can be particularly important if the at-fault driver was cited for causing the accident.
In cases where at least one car has suffered major damage, insurance companies typically require the crash report to validate the extent of the vehicle damage before approving a payout. If anyone involved in the accident sustained injuries, the insurance carrier will also use the report to assess the situation and determine the appropriate compensation.
Even in cases where the other driver’s insurance agency is uncooperative, having a crash report can serve as strong evidence to support your accident claim. It provides an objective record that can help establish fault and support your compensation claims.
How to Obtain a Car Accident Report in Ohio
There are a few different ways to get your motor vehicle accident report in Ohio. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine the best way to proceed.
Order Your Traffic Crash Report Online
The Ohio Department of Public Safety offers an online system where you can request your crash report. This is a convenient option if you prefer to handle things electronically. To retrieve the report, you’ll need some specific information:
- The date the accident occurred
- The county where the accident took place
- The law enforcement agency that handled the accident, such as the Cleveland Police Department or the Ohio State Highway Patrol
- Your last name (entering this helps narrow down the search)
If you have the crash number and document number, it will make the search process even easier. Once you find the report, you can print it or download it directly from the site, usually at no cost. However, be aware that it can take up to six weeks for the report to appear online. If you need the report sooner or it isn’t available online, you might need to explore other options.
Visit the Investigating Agency in Person
If you’re in a hurry to get your report or if you can’t find it online, visiting the police agency in person might be your best bet. Here’s what you need to know.
- Wait Three Days: Records are usually submitted by police three to five days after the accident, assuming there is no crime investigation. It’s a good idea to wait at least this long before going to the agency to ensure the report has been filed and is available.
- Bring Necessary Information: When you visit, have all relevant details on hand, such as the date of the accident, location, and names of those involved. This will help the agency locate your report quickly.
- Pay a Small Fee: Most agencies charge a nominal fee for a copy of the report, typically five cents per page. Make sure you bring a valid ID and the appropriate payment method.
Visiting the agency in person usually allows you to leave with the report in hand that same day.
Request the Report by Mail
If visiting in person or online isn’t an option for you, requesting the report by mail is another viable route.
- Write a Request Letter: Address the letter to the law enforcement agency that handled the accident. Include all necessary information about the crash, such as the date, location, and names of the drivers involved.
- Include Payment: If there’s a fee, include a check or money order. Some agencies might also allow you to pay by credit card over the phone, so it’s worth asking.
- Provide a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope: To ensure you receive the report quickly, include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your request.
This method might take longer than others, but it’s a reliable way to get your report if you’re not in a rush.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Crash Report?
The time it takes to receive your crash report depends on how you request it:
- In Person: If you visit the agency within three days of the accident, the report should be ready for you, assuming the officer has completed it and submitted it to the records department. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to make sure the report is available before making the trip. This way, you avoid unnecessary waiting or a wasted trip if it isn’t ready yet.
- Online: Ordering online is convenient, but it may take up to six weeks for the report to become available. Once it’s in the system, you can download and print it immediately.
- By Mail: Requesting your crash report by mail is another option, but it’s usually the slowest method. When you send a request by mail, the time it takes to receive your report can vary widely, depending on how quickly the law enforcement agency processes your request and how long it takes for the mail to be delivered back to you.
Do You Have to Pay for a Crash Report?
If you’re getting your report online through the Ohio Crash System, you generally won’t have to pay a fee. However, if you go to the investigating agency in person or request the report by mail, there may be a small charge (usually just a few cents per page). It’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm any costs so you’re prepared.
What If You Can’t Find the Report?
If you’re having trouble locating your crash report, here are some steps you can take:
- Contact the Investigating Agency: Reach out to the law enforcement agency directly for assistance. They may provide updates or let you know if there are delays in processing the report.
- Double-Check Online: Sometimes, reports take longer to appear in the online system. Check back periodically to see if the report has been uploaded.
- Consider Additional Resources: If you’re still having trouble, you might want to consult with a professional. Some third-party services specialize in retrieving traffic accident reports, though they may charge a fee for their services. These companies can be helpful if you’re facing delays or complications.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: If obtaining the report becomes challenging, or if you need it urgently for legal reasons, speak to a personal injury attorney. They can help you get the documentation you need and use the information to put together a compelling case.
How Can a Car Accident Report Make Your Claim Stronger?
While not all insurance claims require a crash report, it’s often in your best interest to obtain one. This document provides an official record of the accident, which can be vital when dealing with insurance companies, especially if they’re reluctant to pay out. Even in minor accidents, having a crash report can protect you if disputes arise later on.
Protecting Your Rights in a Dispute
In cases where the accident may result in a disputed claim, having a crash report on hand can help protect your rights. The report serves as an impartial record of what happened and can be used as evidence in court. Whether you’re pursuing a claim for damages or defending yourself against allegations, the report can provide critical support for your case.
Ensuring Fair Compensation
If you’ve been injured in the accident or if your vehicle sustained significant damage, the crash report can help ensure that you receive fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but having a detailed, official record of the incident can strengthen your injury claim and help you get the settlement you are entitled to.
Peace of Mind
Even if the accident was minor, having a crash report can provide peace of mind. It’s reassuring to know that you have a documented account of the event should any issues arise later. This is particularly important if the other driver’s account of the accident differs from yours or if there are complications with the insurance claim.
Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help You Obtain the Report?
After a car accident, the last thing you may want to do is deal with the paperwork. The stress of the situation, combined with potential injuries and the emotional toll of the accident, can make it difficult to focus on administrative tasks. This is where an experienced Cleveland car accident attorney can help.
An attorney with a strong background in car accident cases can gather all necessary documents, such as the accident report. They can also assist you in filing an insurance claim, negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf, and represent you in court if negotiations don’t result in a fair settlement, giving you peace of mind during a difficult time.
Get a Free Consultation With a Cleveland Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ohio, getting your crash report is just one step in protecting your rights and your future. The experienced attorneys at Plevin & Gallucci, can help you navigate the aftermath of the accident, from obtaining the crash report to filing insurance claims and pursuing legal action if necessary. We have secured favorable settlements and verdicts for many clients and will apply a similar dedication to your case.
RELATED: What is the Average Personal Injury Settlement?
Don’t let the stress of dealing with paperwork and insurance companies overwhelm you. Contact Plevin & Gallucci today to schedule a free initial consultation and get the legal representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
Related: Importance of Having an Experienced Accident Investigator
