When the police respond to your car crash, they investigate the cause and the specifics of what happened. This information becomes part of a police report. Virginia statutes allow only certain people to request a copy of this report, and you must have a legal right to do so. Requesting an accident report

Requesting a Copy of a Police Accident Report in Virginia

According to Virginia law, only certain people may request a police report after a crash. This includes:

  • Drivers involved in the crash.
  • Passengers involved in the crash.
  • Anyone injured by the crash.
  • An attorney for someone injured or involved in the crash.
  • The parent or legal guardian of a minor hurt or killed in the crash.
  • The owner of a vehicle or property involved in the crash.
  • The personal representative of someone injured or killed in the crash.
  • An authorized representative of an insurance company reasonably anticipating exposure to civil liability because of the crash.

How to Request a Copy of a Police Accident Report

If you’re eligible to request a copy of the police report, you need to fill out the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Information Request Form CRD 93. You will need the following information:

  • Personal information including your name, address, phone number, and Social Security or tax ID number.
  • The reason for your request.
  • The date, time, and location of the crash.
  • The driver’s name and license number.
  • If applicable, you should also provide the names of any passengers or pedestrians involved in the wreck.

Additionally, you need to provide the required customer records fee. In 2018, the fee for a police crash report was $8.00.

Why the Police Report Is Important

The police report will not determine liability for the crash. However, it may provide important information about the cause of the accident that can be helpful to you and your lawyer as you negotiate with insurance companies or pursue your car accident claim in court.

If you’ve been hurt in a Virginia car crash, we encourage you to contact our experienced car accident lawyers as soon as possible. We can request your car accident police report for you, investigate your accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Please contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to learn more.

Related links: