How Can I Obtain an Accident Report in Carrollton?
When you’ve been involved in a car accident in Carrollton, one of the most important documents you’ll need is the official accident report. This report, sometimes called a crash report, provides a neutral account of what happened, including details gathered by responding law enforcement officers. Insurance companies, attorneys, and courts often rely on it when determining liability and damages.
But many injured Texans ask the same question: How do I actually get a copy of my accident report in Carrollton?
This guide walks you through every step—explaining who creates accident reports, how to request one, how much it costs, what’s included, and why having one can make or break your personal injury claim.
Why Accident Reports Matter After a Crash
If you’ve been hurt in a collision, you’ll quickly discover that every insurance adjuster, lawyer, and doctor wants documentation. The accident report is the foundation of that documentation.
An accident report typically includes:
Date, time, and location of the accident
Names, contact info, and insurance details of drivers involved
Witness statements and their contact information
Descriptions of vehicles and property damage
Police officer’s observations of fault or traffic violations
Sketches or diagrams of the crash scene
Injury documentation as reported at the scene
Insurance companies often use these reports to assess fault. Without one, proving liability becomes much harder. If you’re pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, having the report can strengthen your case.
Who Creates Accident Reports in Carrollton?
In Carrollton, accident reports are prepared by the Carrollton Police Department if they responded to your crash. If the accident happened on a highway or interstate, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) or other local law enforcement agencies may prepare the report.
If no police officer responded to the crash (common in minor fender benders), then no official accident report will exist. In those cases, you and the other driver may file a Driver’s Crash Report (CR-2), sometimes referred to as a “Blue Form.” However, as of 2019, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) no longer retains these CR-2 reports, but you may still keep a copy for your records.
How to Request an Accident Report in Carrollton
There are three main ways to obtain your accident report in Carrollton:
1. Request Directly from the Carrollton Police Department
You can order a copy of your report directly from the Carrollton Police Records Division.
In Person:
Visit the Records Division during business hours. You’ll need to provide identifying information such as the accident date, location, and names of drivers involved.By Mail:
Send a written request with accident details. Include payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope if mailing.Online:
Carrollton participates in online crash report portals where you can search and purchase reports. These services require details like the driver’s name, accident date, or case number.
2. Request from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
TxDOT maintains an online crash report system called the Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Steps:
Visit the TxDOT CRIS website.
Enter crash details (name, driver’s license, crash ID, or date).
Purchase and download the report instantly.
3. Ask Your Attorney to Obtain the Report
If you’re represented by a personal injury lawyer, your attorney can request and review the accident report on your behalf. This ensures the report is obtained correctly and used strategically in your claim.
How Much Does an Accident Report Cost in Carrollton?
Fees may vary slightly depending on where you request the report. On average:
Carrollton Police Department: About $6 for a certified copy.
TxDOT CRIS online system: $6 for a regular copy, $8 for a certified copy.
Certified copies are typically needed if your case goes to court. For insurance claims, a regular copy is usually sufficient.
How Long Does It Take to Get the Report?
Accident reports usually become available within 5–10 business days after the crash. However, if the collision involved serious injuries, fatalities, or ongoing investigations, the release of the report may take longer.
If you check online and your report isn’t available yet, wait a few days and try again.
What If I Can’t Find My Accident Report?
Sometimes accident reports are delayed, misplaced, or restricted. Common reasons include:
Ongoing criminal investigations (e.g., DUI-related accidents)
Incomplete information provided during the request
Report not yet finalized by the officer
If you have trouble locating your report, your personal injury lawyer can often resolve the issue by contacting the police department or TxDOT directly.
Why Your Accident Report Is Important for an Injury Claim
An accident report is more than paperwork—it’s evidence. If you were hurt, the insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to downplay or deny your injuries. Having the accident report helps establish:
That the crash occurred (removing doubt)
Who was at fault according to law enforcement observations
Witnesses who can support your version of events
That injuries were noted at the scene
The stronger your documentation, the harder it is for insurers to dispute your claim. That’s why accident reports are often the first thing your lawyer will obtain.
How Carrollton Injury Law Can Help
At Carrollton Injury Law, we know that navigating accident paperwork while recovering from injuries can feel overwhelming. Our team can help you obtain your accident report, interpret it, and use it effectively to pursue compensation.
Our motto—“We put Personal back into Personal Injury Law”—means we handle the details while you focus on healing.
If you’ve been injured in a car, truck, motorcycle, or pedestrian accident in Carrollton or anywhere in Texas, we’re here to help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carrollton Accident Reports
Do I need a police report to file an insurance claim?
Not always, but having one makes the process smoother. Insurance companies give greater weight to claims supported by official documentation.
Can anyone request an accident report in Carrollton?
Only certain parties—such as people involved in the accident, their attorneys, and insurance companies—are eligible to receive accident reports in Texas.
What’s the difference between a regular copy and a certified copy?
A certified copy is stamped and validated by the issuing agency. Certified copies are usually required for court proceedings, while regular copies suffice for insurance claims.
Can I get my accident report for free?
No, accident reports in Texas typically cost between $6–$8. Some attorneys may obtain it for you at no additional cost if you hire them to represent your case.
What if the police didn’t come to the scene of my accident?
If no officer responded, an official report may not exist. You may need to file a Driver’s Crash Report (CR-2) and keep a copy for your records.
How long are accident reports kept in Texas?
TxDOT typically retains accident reports for 10 years. After that, they may not be available through official channels.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Rights After a Carrollton Accident
If you’ve been in an accident, obtaining your accident report is one of the first steps toward protecting your rights. This document helps establish the facts, supports your insurance claim, and strengthens your case if you pursue legal action.
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Carrollton Injury Law can guide you through obtaining your report, dealing with insurers, and building a strong claim.
Take the first step today toward peace of mind and recovery.
