After an accident, one of the most important documents you’ll need in the coming days is your official accident report. This report provides details about the crash and can be essential for insurance claims, legal matters, and your own peace of mind.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to get a copy of your Florida accident report step-by-step so you can move forward with clarity.
Step 1: Know Who Has Your Report
In Florida, accident reports are usually filed by the law enforcement agency that responded to the scene. This could be:
- The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)
- Your city police department
- The county sheriff’s office
Tip: If you’re unsure which agency responded, check any paperwork or cards the officer gave you at the scene.
Step 2: Wait the Required Time
Florida law gives law enforcement officers up to 10 days to complete and file an accident report. While some are available sooner, requesting too early may result in an incomplete record.
Step 3: Request Your Report Online
The fastest way to get your accident report is online through the Florida Crash Portal (run by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles).
- Visit: https://www.flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports
- Search by the date of the crash, your driver’s license number, and/or the report number (if you have it)
- Pay the $10 report fee plus a small processing charge
- Download instantly once available
Step 4: Request in Person or by Mail (If Preferred)
If you’d rather not order online, you can also request your report:
- In person at the police department, sheriff’s office, or FHP troop station that handled the crash
- By mail by sending your request, payment, and proof of identity to the responding agency
Tip: Bring a photo ID and any information you have about the crash (date, location, report number).
Step 5: Understand Privacy Rules
For the first 60 days after a crash, Florida accident reports are confidential and only available to certain people, including:
- People involved in the crash
- Their attorneys
- Insurance representatives
- Certain media organizations
If you request a report during this time, you’ll need to show identification and possibly fill out an affidavit stating your connection to the crash.
Helpful Tips
- Check your spam/junk folder if you order online sometimes download links end up there.
- Act quickly if you need the report for an insurance claim so your case isn’t delayed.
- Ask for extra copies if you’ll be working with multiple providers (insurance, medical, legal).
You Don’t Have to Handle This Alone
If you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, remember it’s okay to ask for help. Licensed Florida attorneys can review your accident report and explain your legal options. Qualified medical providers can ensure your injuries are properly documented and treated.
Hurt Aid is here to connect you with trusted professionals who understand what you’re going through and can help you take the next step toward recovery.
Next Steps
- Get your accident report as soon as it’s available
- See a medical provider for a full evaluation even if you feel “okay” now
- Reach out to Hurt Aid to be connected with licensed Florida attorneys and experienced medical providers who can help guide you forward
