How to a Get Copy of an Accident Report in St. Petersburg, Florida

Obtaining a crash report can help resolve any legal disputes.

Traffic crash reports are exempt for 60 days from the public record according to Florida statutes. Only those involved in the crash and limited outside parties, such as attorneys or insurance companies, can have access to this information. Receiving a copy of the accident report requires completion of a form and a small fee. For best results, go to the local Florida Highway Patrol Station and make the request in person.

Instructions

1. Fill out the Sworn Statement for Traffic Crash Report Information form. To complete the form, enter the date, location and drivers involved in the accident. Any drivers involved in the crash, personal representatives, licensed attorneys and insurance companies can access this information. Do not sign the bottom of the form unless you have it notarized.

2. Take the completed form to the nearest Florida Highway Patrol Station. In the St. Petersburg area, the office is located in Pinellas Park at 7651 US 19 North.

3. Provide proof of identification, normally a driver's license, and a $10 check made out to Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The office will notarize the signature at the bottom of the request form at this time and issue a copy of the accident report.

Tips & Warnings

• If the crash was over 12 months ago, contact the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Room B-310, MS-28, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0537.

References

• Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: Offices in Pinellas County
• Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: Request for Report
• florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: Requesting a Traffic Crash Report