December 12, 2024 | Car Accidents
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Florida saw 397,620 traffic crashes in 2022, resulting in 3,553 fatalities. In St. Petersburg alone, thousands of these accidents required a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) investigation.
After a car accident, getting a copy of your crash report is essential for filing insurance claims and taking potential legal action. The FHP maintains these records, and there are specific ways to obtain them.
What Is An FHP Crash Report?
An FHP crash report documents the details of any traffic accident investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol. These reports include:
- Officers’ detailed account of the crash, including diagrams
- Names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties
- Vehicle information and damage assessments
- Citations issued and injuries documented
These official documents serve as the foundation for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. As such, their accuracy and completeness are crucial for protecting your interests after an accident.
How Can You Get Your Crash Report?
The Florida Highway Patrol provides multiple options for obtaining your crash report, each with its own timeline and requirements. Here are the three main methods:
- Online Portal
The fastest way to get a crash report is through the Florida Crash Portal. Reports are typically available within 10 days and cost $10 and an additional $2 convenience fee. Reports must be downloaded within 48 hours of purchase through a link sent to your email. The portal provides reports as ZIP files containing PDFs.
- In Person
To obtain your crash report in person, visit any FHP station during regular business hours. Bring identification and be prepared to complete a sworn statement. The cost is $10, though anyone directly involved in the crash–whether the car driver, motorcycle rider, pedestrian, or another relevant party–may qualify for free access.
- By Mail
To receive your report by mail, send a written request to the following address:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Crash Records
2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 28
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Include the following in the envelope:
- A completed sworn statement for the crash report
- A check or money order for $10
- A copy of your ID
This method takes the longest, with these requests requiring six to eight weeks for processing. However, it remains a reliable option for those who prefer traditional correspondence or don’t have access to online services.
Privacy Protection Period
Accessing crash reports containing personal information without proper authorization is a felony under Florida Statute 316.066(3)(c). Additionally, crash reports remain confidential for 60 days after filing. During this period, only the following parties can access the report:
- People involved in the crash
- Their legal representatives
- Insurance companies and their contracted claims agents
- Victim services programs
- Law enforcement agencies
Media outlets, including FCC-licensed radio stations, TV stations, and qualified newspapers, may access redacted versions. Those copies exclude personal information like addresses, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers.
Why Is Getting Your FHP Important?
A crash report becomes crucial evidence for personal injury claims. Accurate accident documentation serves both legal and safety purposes. That’s why it’s important to review your report carefully once obtained. Look out for common errors, such as:
- Incorrect vehicle information
- Misreported witness statements
- Inaccurate crash diagrams
- Inaccurate weather or road conditions
Any errors in the report could significantly impact your insurance claim or legal case. Thus, you should immediately document inaccuracies and consider seeking legal guidance to address them.
The Importance Of Obtaining Your Florida Highway Patrol Accident Report
Obtaining your FHP crash report promptly after a vehicle or motorcycle accident is crucial. Review it carefully for accuracy, as it’s essential that you address any errors immediately so you can protect your interests. Whether requesting online, in person, or by mail, remember to obtain this official documentation. It provides essential support for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Florida
If you’ve been injured in an accident, please contact our experienced personal injury lawyers at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group to schedule a free consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Florida, including Vero Beach, St. Petersburg, and Port St. Lucie.
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Vero Beach
2651 20th St
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 758-1966
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – St. Petersburg
200 Central Ave Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(772) 569-8155
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Port St. Lucie
10805 SW Tradition Square Unit 024A
Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
(772) 677-0373