How to Obtain Pennsylvania Accident Reports

After a traffic accident in Pennsylvania, getting a copy of the official crash report can be a critical step—especially if you plan to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. You might be wondering: How do I obtain a Pennsylvania accident report, and what’s the easiest way to access it?

Obtain Pennsylvania accident reports by submitting a request through the Pennsylvania State Police website or visiting a local law enforcement agency. Online requests require a $22 fee and details such as the incident date, report number, and involved parties.

Over the decades, I’ve helped countless accident victims and their families secure crucial documents like crash reports to support their injury claims and legal cases. Let’s take a closer look at how to request your report, what information you’ll need, and how it may impact your case.

 

 

 

Why an Accident Report Matters

If you have been involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania, obtaining a police accident report is essential for legal and insurance purposes. This document provides an official record of the incident, detailing the circumstances, parties involved, and any law enforcement observations. Having access to this report can significantly impact your ability to pursue compensation, file an insurance claim, or provide necessary documentation in legal proceedings.

 

How to Get a Pennsylvania Crash Report

The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) maintains and distributes accident reports for crashes that occur within their jurisdiction. If a local police department responded to the accident, such as the Philadelphia Police Department, you may need to request the report from that specific agency instead.

There are multiple ways to obtain a crash report in Pennsylvania, including online, by mail, or in person.

 

How to Obtain a Police Report from an Accident Online

The most convenient way to obtain an accident report is through the Pennsylvania State Police website. To access the report, you will need one of the following:

• The report or incident number
• The date of the accident
• The name of one of the involved parties

Once you provide this information, you can purchase a digital copy of the accident report directly through the website. If the accident occurred in Philadelphia and was handled by the Philadelphia Police Department, you may need to use their online system to request a copy.

 

How to Get a Police Report from an Accident by Mail

If you prefer a physical copy of your accident report, you can request one by mail. To do so:

1. Download the official accident report request form from the PSP website.
2. Complete the form with all required details, including accident date, location, and names of involved individuals.
3. Submit the form along with the required fee, payable by money order or certified check, to the Pennsylvania State Police.

Be sure to review the PSP website for current processing times and fees before mailing your request.

 

Incident Report Search: How to Obtain Your Crash Report In Person

Individuals who prefer to obtain their accident report in person may do so at any Pennsylvania State Police station. When requesting a report in person, bring:

• A valid form of identification
• Accident details such as date, location, and report number (if available)
• The required payment for processing fees

Because fees may vary, checking with the PSP or local law enforcement agency beforehand is advisable.

 

Who Can Request a Pennsylvania Accident Report?

Pennsylvania law restricts access to accident reports to certain individuals and entities due to privacy considerations. Those eligible to request a report include:

• Individuals Involved in the Accident: Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians directly impacted by the crash may request a copy.
• Legal Representatives: Attorneys representing accident victims can obtain reports for legal proceedings or insurance claims.
• Insurance Companies: Insurers handling claims for involved parties can request reports to assess liability and process claims.
• Government Agencies: Law enforcement, transportation, and safety agencies may access reports for statistical analysis or infrastructure planning.

To complete a request, the applicant must provide verification of their connection to the accident, such as identification, proof of representation, or authorization letters.

 

 

When Can You Access an Accident Report?

Typically, accident reports become available within 15 days after the incident. However, complex cases or accidents requiring additional investigation may take longer. If your report is delayed, you can check the PSP’s official website for updates or contact the appropriate law enforcement agency directly.

 

Why You Need an Accident Report in Pennsylvania

Accident reports serve as critical documentation for various reasons, including:

1. Insurance Claims

Most insurance companies require an official accident report when processing claims. This document provides adjusters with key details about the crash, including fault determination and contributing factors.

2. Legal Proceedings

If you pursue legal action, an accident report acts as a foundational piece of evidence. Attorneys use these reports to establish case facts, assess liability, and present claims in court.

3. Personal Records

Keeping a copy of the accident report for personal records can be useful for future reference. In the event of disputes or additional claims, having official documentation can help clarify accident details.

 

 

How a Pennsylvania Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

If you were injured in a car accident, a personal injury lawyer can assist in obtaining an accident report and advocating for your rights. The attorneys at Mattiacci Law have extensive experience handling motor vehicle accident cases and can streamline the process in several ways:

• Legal Authorization: Lawyers can request accident reports on behalf of clients, ensuring all privacy laws and requirements are met.
• Expertise in Filing Requests: With in-depth knowledge of legal procedures, personal injury attorneys ensure requests are properly completed to avoid delays.
• Navigating Bureaucratic Processes: Experienced legal professionals are familiar with Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement procedures, allowing them to expedite requests efficiently.
• Advocacy in Case of Delays: If there are difficulties obtaining your report, an attorney can intervene on your behalf to resolve the issue.

The legal team at Mattiacci Law offers free consultations for individuals injured in Pennsylvania car accidents. If you need assistance obtaining an accident report or pursuing compensation for your injuries, contact Mattiacci Law today.

Secure Your Accident Report and Protect Your Rights

Obtaining an accident report is a critical step after a car accident in Pennsylvania. Whether for insurance claims, legal proceedings, or personal documentation, this report provides essential information about the incident.

By understanding the various ways to obtain a report and knowing who is eligible to request one, you can ensure you have access to the necessary records. If you encounter any challenges in acquiring your report, consulting a personal injury attorney can help simplify the process and provide legal support for your claim.

For more information on accident reports or legal assistance, contact Mattiacci Law today at 215-914-6919 for a free consultation.

Related Content:

• How Long Does an Insurance Investigation Take for Car Accident Injury Claims?
• What Is the Assured Clear Distance Rule in Pennsylvania?
• What is Comparative Negligence in Pennsylvania Law?
• Who Is at Fault in a Left-Turn Collision Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

Resources:

• Pennsylvania State Police Crash Reports: Access and request crash reports investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police.
• Philadelphia Police Department Public Safety Reports: Obtain public safety records, including crash reports, from the Philadelphia Police Department.
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Driver’s Accident Report Form (AA-600): Download and complete the official form for reporting accidents to PennDOT.