To get a crash report in Houston, TX, you can request it online through the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) or directly from the Houston Police Department (HPD), depending on who arrived at the scene of the accident. Accident reports contain key details about the collision, and obtaining one is often an important part of filing a personal injury claim.
We’ll walk you through who can access a crash report, how long it takes to receive one, common issues with retrieving reports, and how our Houston car accident lawyers help clients use these reports to support personal injury claims. Understanding the process early can help protect your rights and future.
How to Get a Crash Report in Houston
There are two primary methods for obtaining a crash report in Houston, depending on which law enforcement agency was involved in the accident.
Option 1: Request Through TxDOT
Most crash reports in Texas are available online via the TxDOT Crash Report Purchase System. You’ll need key details, such as the date and location of the crash, as well as the names of those involved. Reports cost $6-8. Once purchased, you may download the report.
Option 2: Request from Houston Police Department (HPD)
If the Houston Police Department investigated the crash, you can request the report through their Records Division in person, by mail, or through their online portal. Be sure to confirm which agency responded, since requesting from the wrong source can delay access.
Attorneys often help by quickly identifying the right agency and requesting the correct version of the report, especially when time is of the essence.
What to Do if You Can’t Find the Report
When in doubt, contacting the investigating officer or agency directly can help clarify where your report is and how you can obtain a copy. If you’re injured or dealing with insurance delays, an attorney can step in to confirm the agency, expedite the request, or obtain alternative evidence while you wait for the report.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Crash Report?
Crash reports in Houston typically become available within a couple of weeks after the accident. This allows the responding officer time to complete the report and submit it to the appropriate agency or agencies.
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What Is a Crash Report and Why Do You Need One?
A crash report is an official document completed by a law enforcement officer who responds to a traffic accident. In Texas, it’s called a Peace Officer’s Crash Report (Form CR-3), and it includes important information like:
- The time and location of the crash
- The vehicles and people involved
- Witness statements
- Road conditions
- Officer’s opinion on what caused the accident
If you were injured or your vehicle was damaged, the crash report serves as a key piece of evidence. Insurance companies use it to evaluate claims, and personal injury attorneys rely on it to build a case and determine who was at fault.
Even if you believe the accident was minor, having this report can help protect your rights later. If you decide to pursue compensation, your Houston car accident attorney will likely start by reviewing the crash report for errors, omissions, or indications of fault.
Who Can Obtain a Crash Report in Texas?
Not everyone can access a crash report in Texas—the law limits availability to certain “interested parties” under Texas Transportation Code § 550.065. If you were directly involved in the accident (as a driver, passenger, or vehicle owner), you have the right to request a copy. Certain immediate family members, authorized legal representatives, and insurance companies covering any party in the crash can also obtain it.
Attorneys representing injured individuals or handling insurance claims often request the report on their client’s behalf. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, a lawyer can help confirm your eligibility and assist with the request process.
Please note that attempting to retrieve the report without proper authorization may result in delays or rejections. Understanding your role in the accident—and how to verify it—makes the process smoother and helps ensure your access to this essential document is not denied.
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Certified vs. Uncertified Crash Reports
When ordering your crash report, you’ll be asked to choose between a certified and uncertified copy. An uncertified report is sufficient for most personal use, including insurance claims and general documentation. A certified copy, however, includes a stamp or seal verifying its authenticity and is typically required for legal proceedings, such as court hearings or lawsuits.
If you’re working with an attorney, they may recommend obtaining the certified version, especially if your injuries are serious or you anticipate filing a claim. If commercial vehicles are involved, for example, it is usually a wise decision to get a certified version. Our Houston truck accident lawyers can help you do so.
You need a skilled advocate to protect your legal rights and present your claim in such a way as to maximize your recovery.
Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Today
Obtaining your crash report is a crucial first step after any motor vehicle accident. Whether you were injured, your car was damaged, or you’re unsure about what happened, this document can provide clarity—and serve as key evidence in any insurance or legal claim. While it’s possible to get a crash report in Houston, TX, on your own, the process can be confusing, especially if multiple agencies are involved or if details are missing from the report.
At Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC, we not only help clients obtain their crash reports but also assist them in understanding the information’s significance for their case. If you’ve been injured, our Houston car accident attorneys are ready to step in to identify errors, secure the documentation you need, and build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. Contact Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC, today for a free consultation.
At Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC we can talk to you about your options and rights.
