How to Obtain California Accident Reports

Reports on vehicle accidents in California are not public record.

Automobile accidents are devastating and inconvenient, depending on the severity of the accident. Law enforcement often arrives on the scene to record accident information, and -- if necessary -- emergency medical technicians arrive to treat any injuries and exam persons involved for potential injury. California accident reports are not public record; only persons involved in the accident or representatives or certain relatives of the persons involved may obtain a copy of an accident report.

Instructions

1. Contact the police department or sheriff's department in the city where the accident took place. Accident records in California are recorded with the law enforcement agency that arrived at the scene of the accident. You may contact the law enforcement department in-person, over the telephone or through the mail. As specific guidelines may vary from city to city, it is probably best to call the department to double-check on any guidelines before visiting or sending a letter.

2. Provide the law enforcement agency with your last name and the report identification number that was given to you the day of the accident by the officers on scene. Provide the date and location of the accident.

3. Pay the fee for your accident report. As of April of 2011, a California accident report is $16, payable by cash, check or credit card. If you request an accident report in person, you will receive the report the same day. If you request by phone, you can pick up your accident report from the police department at your convenience. If you send a letter requesting an accident report by mail, you must provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Your accident report will be mailed to you two to four weeks after the request is received.

References

• San Jose Police Department: How to Obtain Police Reports and Records