How To Get a Copy of A Florida Police Report

Following a car collision, dog bite, slip and fall, or other type of incident or accident in Florida, a police incident report might be necessary for various purposes. Navigating the process of acquiring a physical or digital copy of a Florida police report near you can often prove to be challenging and a bit confusing. In most cases you’ll be able to obtain the report from the Florida Crash Portal website – regardless of where the accident happened – but in a few cases, going to the specific municipality where the report was filed may be necessary.

What Is a Police Report and Why Do I Need It?

A police report, also known as an incident report, is crafted by a police officer after responding to an incident, such as a pedestrian accident, motorcycle accident, or rideshare accident. This report includes critical details: the date, time, location, and names of individuals involved.

You might need a copy of a police report for various reasons. Commonly, it’s required for filing a claim with your insurance company or to provide evidence to your lawyer if legal action is being considered.

How To Get a Copy of a Police Report in Florida Near You

There are two ways to get a copy of a police report in Florida: online or in person. If you’re involved in a car crash or similar type of wreck – you may need help obtaining these reports – our team here at Bengal Law can help – or you can follow the instructions below to procure your own copy.

To Get a Copy of a Florida Police Report Online:

Each accident report incurs a mandatory fee of $10.00, along with a $2.00 convenience fee, as specified in Section 321.23 of the Florida Statutes. Each transaction is limited to a maximum of ten reports.

1. Visit Florida’s Official Crash Portal.
2. Enter the incident number provided on the form issued by the police officer.
3. Select the exemption that best matches your situation, typically “Party involved in the crash.”
4. Provide proof of eligibility by entering your driver’s license number.

Your Florida police incident report will be accessible via email, provided as a zip file containing PDFs.

It’s important to keep in mind that most Florida accident reports are usually available online immediately and must be downloaded within 48 hours of the request. Additionally, please note that crash reports for accidents occurring within the last 10 days may not be accessible on Florida’s Official Crash Portal, as Florida law allows police officers up to 10 days to submit the reports.

To Get a Copy Of A Police Report In-Person Near You Or By Mail:

1. To receive a crash report through mail or in person, you must complete a Florida Sworn Statement to Obtain a Crash Report (Form 94010) within 60 days from the date of the crash.
2. If you require fewer than 10 crash records, you can obtain them from the nearest Florida Highway Patrol troop station.
3. For requests exceeding 10 records, you’ll need to submit a request letter specifying the desired crash report. Additionally, you must include a signed statement and payment for the police report if the request is made within 60 days after the crash. Accepted forms of payment are money orders or checks, payable to FLHSMV.  Once requested via mail – it an take 4-6 weeks for the request to be processed and mailed back to you.

Mail the request letter to:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Crash Records
2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 28
Tallahassee, FL 32399

​​How Much Does It Cost to Get a Florida Accident Report?

The cost of a copy of a police report in Florida is $10.00, plus a convenience fee of $2.00.  This fee is the same whether you choose to obtain your report in person, via mail, or online.  It is the same for every accident in Florida and does not vary by jurisdiction or municipality.  You can pay the fee by the following methods:

• online with a credit or debit card for online incident reports
• via cash, debit card, money order, or check for in-person accident reports
• via check or money order for mail-in requests.

How Long Does It Take To Get the Florida Accident Report?

Ever wondered how fast you can get your hands on a Florida accident report? If you opt for the online route, it’s practically immediate – just a click away. However, if you prefer the in-person approach, patience is key. It might take a few days. Remember, agencies have a 10-day window to upload these reports online or have them ready for in-person or mail-in requests. But hey, processing times can vary, so it’s a bit of a waiting game based on their workload and your chosen method.

What Documentation Is Required to Get the Florida Accident Report?

In the Sunshine State, not just anyone can get a copy of an accident or incident report. You need to be directly involved. To get your hands on that report, fill out the Florida Sworn Statement to Obtain a Crash Report (Form 94010). Oh, and you’ll need to prove your right to the report.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Don’t forget the incident number from the form the police officer handed you.
• If you’re going in person, your ID is a must.
• There’s a fee, so be prepared for that.

Got questions? The local police department or the nearest Florida Highway Safety & Motor Vehicle department are your go-to sources.

Who Can Obtain a Florida Accident or Incident Report?

Let’s talk about who can actually get these reports. They’re not for public consumption, and for good reason. Privacy is key, and breaking this rule isn’t just frowned upon—it can lead to a third-degree felony charge. Yes, it’s that serious.

So, who’s on the list? Those directly involved in the crash – think drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Then, there are the entities specified by law, like insurance companies, law enforcement, and legal representatives. They can request access for legitimate reasons.

Unauthorized disclosure? Big no-no. Even if you’re allowed access, sharing confidential info can land you in hot water. And for those thinking about sneaky ways to get this info – think again. It’s not just illegal; it’s a crime.

If you find yourself needing a Florida accident or incident report, remember these guidelines. They’re there to protect everyone’s privacy and ensure that only those with a legitimate need get access.

What Does the Florida Accident Report Include?

Have you ever wondered what exactly is included in a Florida accident report? Let’s unpack this crucial document that plays a pivotal role in the aftermath of an incident.

Firstly, think of the police report as a comprehensive summary created by law enforcement following a specific event. Here’s what it typically entails:

• Incident Details: Picture the who, what, where, and when of the incident, neatly summarized.
• Complainant Information: The person who flagged the incident? Their details are right here.
• Suspect Information: If there’s someone involved, their details make their way into the report.
• Witness Information: Those who saw what happened? Yes, their statements and contacts are included.
• Narrative Description: This is where things get detailed. An officer’s chronological account provides depth to the incident.
• Evidence: From photos to seized items, if it’s evidence, it’s documented.
• Officer Information: The officers on the scene? They’re listed too.
• Charges or Citations: If there were any legal consequences, they are noted.
• Vehicle Information: Involved vehicles aren’t left out; details are included.
• Case Number: This unique identifier is like the report’s own DNA – completely individual.

Now, why is this report so important?

1. Legal Documentation: Think of it as an official bookmark of the incident, crucial for legal proceedings.
2. Insurance Claims: Been in an accident? Your insurance provider might ask for this.
3. Criminal Investigations: It’s a launch pad for digging deeper into criminal cases.
4. Evidence Preservation: Like preserving footprints in the sand, it keeps the incident’s details intact.
5. Personal Record: Sometimes, you just need your own copy, for peace of mind or record-keeping.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need this report and can’t get it, don’t worry. Our team at Bengal Law is here to assist. Having this report at our initial consultation can speed things up. It helps us understand the scenario better and check for any potential conflicts.

So, if you’re caught in the whirlwind of an accident or an incident and the police report feels like another hurdle, reach out. Let us at Bengal Law be your steady hand in navigating these turbulent times. Call today, and let’s discuss how we can help you.