The Short Answer…
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, there are several ways to get the police report depending on who responded to the crash. The most common method is through the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) online Crash Report system, but you can also request it by mail, in person, or with help from a lawyer. Getting your report is an essential step in protecting your rights and documenting what happened, especially if you plan to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
In this article, we’ll explain how to get a police report for a car accident, when a report is required, and when it’s time to speak with an attorney. If you’re in Odessa, Midland, or anywhere in West Texas, the experienced car accident lawyers at Braker White can help you obtain your report quickly, review it for accuracy, and take action if it contains errors or missing details.
Key Takeaways
- You can request your Texas police report online, by mail, or in person through TxDOT or the local police department involved.
- You’ll need key details like the crash ID number, names of drivers involved, and the accident date/location to retrieve the report.
- Accident reports usually become available within 7–10 business days but this can vary depending on the department.
- Texas law requires a crash report for accidents involving injury, death, or over $1,000 in property damage.
- An attorney can help you file, correct, or interpret your police report to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Table of Contents
- What’s Included in a Police Report for a Car Accident?
- Does Texas Require a Police Report for an Accident?
- How to File a Police Report for a Car Accident in Texas
- How to Obtain a Police Report for a Car Accident in Texas
- When to Talk to a Car Accident Attorney
- FAQs About Texas Car Accident Police Reports
- Need Help Getting a Police Report After a Car Accident?
- Related Articles & Info
What’s Included in a Police Report for a Car Accident?
A police report for a car accident (also called a crash report) is an official document prepared by a law enforcement officer who responds to the scene. It provides a detailed summary of the accident, including:
- Date, time, and location of the crash
- Driver and vehicle information
- Witness names and contact info
- Diagram of the accident scene
- Statements from involved parties
- Officer’s opinion about who was at fault
- Any citations or violations issued
This report plays a vital role in insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Does Texas Require a Police Report for an Accident?
In many cases, yes. Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.062, police must file a written report within 10 days of any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Even in minor accidents, filing a car accident police report is smart. An official report helps document your version of events and creates a neutral, third-party record that insurers and courts rely on.
How to File a Police Report for a Car Accident in Texas
Step 1: Call the Police to the Scene (If You Haven’t Already)
If you’re involved in a car accident in Texas, calling the police to the scene is one of the most important steps you can take, especially if someone is injured, the vehicles are badly damaged, or the other driver is acting aggressively or evasively. When an officer responds to the crash scene, they will document the incident and file an official police report.
Why you should call the police after an accident:
- It’s required by law if someone is hurt, killed, or there is more than $1,000 in property damage.
- An officer can help secure the scene, gather witness statements, and determine if any citations should be issued.
- Their report will carry weight with insurance companies and courts because it’s seen as an objective third-party account.
Tip: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s smart to call the police. Some injuries or damages may not be immediately obvious, and having an official record helps protect your interests.
Step 2: What If the Police Didn’t Respond?
If the police weren’t called or didn’t come to the scene, you still have options:
- Go to your local police department as soon as possible and ask to file a report. Provide them with detailed information about the accident, including:
- The date, time, and location
- Names and contact information for all involved parties and witnesses
- A description of what happened
- Any photos or videos of the scene or vehicle damage
- File a CR-2 Blue Form (Self-Report): Texas drivers must complete a Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2), commonly known as the “Blue Form”, if:
- The accident wasn’t investigated by a law enforcement officer, and
- It resulted in injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage.
- This form is submitted to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and becomes part of the state’s crash database. While not as authoritative as a police-generated report, it still creates an official record of the crash.
How to Obtain a Police Report for a Car Accident in Texas
You have several ways to get your Texas car accident police report:
Option 1: Online via TxDOT
- Visit the TxDOT Crash Report Online Purchase System
- Provide one of the following:
- Crash ID
- Name of a person involved
- Date and location of the crash
- Pay the required fee (usually $6 for a regular copy or $8 for a certified copy)
Option 2: Request from the Local Police Department
- Visit or contact the department that responded to the scene.
- Submit a written request with driver info, date, and crash location.
- Expect to pay a small fee and wait a few days for processing.
Option 3: Request by Mail
- Download and complete Form CR-91.
- Mail to:
Crash Data and Analysis
Texas Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 12879
Austin, TX 78711 - Include a check or money order.
Option 4: Get Help from an Attorney
Your attorney can request the report on your behalf, review it for accuracy, and use it as evidence in your case.
When to Talk to a Car Accident Attorney
Even if your accident seems straightforward, things can quickly become complicated, especially when injuries are involved, fault is unclear, or insurance companies start pushing back. That’s when having a knowledgeable car accident lawyer on your side makes a difference.
At Braker White, we’ve helped countless West Texans navigate the aftermath of a crash with confidence. You don’t have to face the process alone—we’re here to advocate for you every step of the way.
We can help you:
- Get your accident report fast, whether online or directly from law enforcement, and help ensure you have all the documentation you need.
- Identify errors or missing details in the police report that could affect your ability to recover compensation and help correct them.
- Build a strong case for full compensation, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
- Deal with insurance companies so you don’t have to worry about pressure tactics, lowball offers, or delays.
- Advise you on your rights and legal options based on the facts of your case and Texas law.
The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and securing the financial recovery you may be entitled to. Contact us for a free consultation today.
FAQs About Texas Car Accident Police Reports
Most Texas accident reports are available within 7 to 10 business days after the crash, but this can vary depending on the workload of the responding agency.
- $6 for a regular copy
- $8 for a certified copy (required for court proceedings)
Yes. If your accident was reported to the police, you can retrieve the report online through the TxDOT CRIS portal.
If you believe your police report contains mistakes, you can:
- Contact the officer or agency that prepared the report
- Submit a supplemental statement with corrections
- Ask your lawyer to formally challenge the error with supporting evidence
Police reports are typically available for up to 10 years through TxDOT, but some local departments may have shorter retention periods. It’s best to request it promptly.
Under Texas law, access is limited to:
- People involved in the crash
- Authorized representatives (like attorneys or insurers)
- Parents or legal guardians of minors involved
- Law enforcement and government agencies
Need Help Getting a Police Report After a Car Accident?
If you’re unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed trying to get your police report, you’re not alone. Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, especially when you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance paperwork all at once.
At Braker White, we take the guesswork out of the process. Our experienced car accident attorneys can help you:
- Locate and obtain your police report quickly
- File a missing report if law enforcement didn’t respond to the scene
- Dispute errors or omissions that could hurt your case
- Leverage the report to strengthen your claim and pursue maximum compensation
Don’t leave your recovery to chance. Contact Braker White today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, help you understand your options, and stand by your side every step of the way.
