How to Get a Car Accident Report in Florida—And Why You Need It

After a car accident, emotions run high and the next steps may feel overwhelming. But one document plays a crucial role in protecting your legal rights and building a strong injury claim: the Florida car accident report. At Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers, your trusted Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers in Jupiter, FL, we’re here to explain how to get this report—and why it matters.

Why the Accident Report Is So Important

A Florida Traffic Crash Report serves as an official record of your car accident. It includes essential details such as:

• The time, date, and location of the crash
• Involved drivers and vehicles
• Witnesses, statements, and contact info
• Diagram of the crash scene
• Contributing factors (e.g., speeding, distraction, weather)

This report can be powerful evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Without it, your case may lack the credibility needed to secure fair compensation.

Who Files the Report?

If a crash in Florida results in injuries, death, or $500+ in property damage, law enforcement is required to file a long-form crash report. Typically, the responding officer will take down information at the scene and submit the report within 10 days.

If police don’t respond (for example, in a minor fender bender), drivers are legally required to file a driver exchange of information form.

How to Get a Copy of Your Crash Report

In Florida, you can obtain your accident report in one of three ways:

1. Online – Visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Crash Portal at www.flhsmv.gov. There is a $10 fee per report.
2. In Person – Go to your local law enforcement agency (such as Jupiter Police Department or Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office).
3. By Mail – Submit a request to FLHSMV with payment and your accident details.

💡 Reports are typically available within 10 business days after the crash.

When and Why You Should Act Quickly

Insurance companies will often request this report during your claim. Having it on hand gives you more control—and lets your attorney evaluate the evidence early.

Waiting too long can delay your case, reduce leverage in negotiations, or result in lost details. Acting promptly is especially critical if you plan to pursue damages for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Let Britto & Herman Help You Use That Report to Win

At Britto & Herman Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped hundreds of Florida injury victims turn their crash reports into winning cases. As skilled Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers in Jupiter, FL, we understand how to interpret, challenge, and leverage the details found in police reports—and we don’t stop until you get the justice you deserve.

Injured in a Florida Car Accident? Let’s Talk.

Call (561) 782-2891, visit www.brittoherman.com, or email us at info@brittoherman.com for a free consultation. We’ll help you access your crash report—and use it to build a strong legal case.