How to Get a Crash Report in Austin, TX (Step-by-Step)

Insurer reviewing an accident crash report. Learn why getting an accident crash report following your Austin accident is important for your case.

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A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Beyond physical injuries, victims often face emotional stress, lost income, and unexpected expenses. An official accident report serves as a key record that verifies the details of your crash and helps you pursue compensation.

If you’ve been involved in a wreck in Austin, our experienced Austin car accident lawyers can guide you through every step of the process. Call us at (866) 264-9070 for a 100% free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Crash Report in Austin

Here’s how to obtain your accident report efficiently:

1. Seek Medical Attention First

Before worrying about paperwork, make sure anyone who is injured gets prompt medical care. Even if you feel okay, some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away due to shock or adrenaline rush. A doctor’s evaluation protects your health and creates documentation that can support your claim.

2. Gather Essential Information

Collect all relevant details at the scene, including:

Date, time, and exact location
Names and driver’s license information of involved parties
Photos of the vehicles, damages, and crash scene
Contact information for witnesses

3. Identify the Reporting Agency

Depending on the crash location, the report may be filed with Austin Police Department (APD), Travis County Sheriff’s Office, or another local law enforcement agency, depending on the location of the incident.

4. Submit Your Request

You can request the report online, in person, or by mail:

Online:

Visit the LexisNexis Police Reports website to submit a request and pay any applicable fee.

In Person:

If online submission is not available, visit the Austin Police Department, at 715 E. 8th Street, Austin, TX 78701, to purchase a copy. Standard fee is typically around $6–$10, with small additional fees for extra pages.

By Mail:

To get your copy by mail, you will need to send a stamped envelope with a check in the amount of $6 made payable to Austin Police Department Reports Sales. The mailing address is PO Box 689001, Austin TX 78768.

5. Wait for Processing

Processing times vary depending on the agency, method of request, and complexity of the crash. Online requests are usually faster, while multi-vehicle or injury crashes may take longer.

Are There Fees Associated With Obtaining an Auto Accident Report?

The fees associated with obtaining an accident report in Austin can vary depending on the reporting agency and the specific circumstances of the request. Here are some general considerations:

Standard Report Fee:

In Austin, there is typically a standard fee for obtaining an accident report. This fee can vary and is set by the reporting agency.

Online Convenience Fee:

If you choose to request the accident report online, there may be an additional convenience fee or processing fee associated with the online service.

Certified Copy Fee:

If you require a certified copy of the accident report, which is often necessary for legal purposes, there may be an extra fee for the certification.

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s recommended to check the current fee structure on the reporting agency’s website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Can an Attorney Help Me Get a Crash Report?

While it’s not required to hire a lawyer to obtain your report, having one early in the process can help you:

Avoid delays and incomplete information
Ensure accurate and timely submission
Navigate online or agency complications
Prepare the report for insurance claims or lawsuits

If you encounter any of these challenges or require assistance throughout the process of requesting a crash report in Austin, contact the Zinda Law Group immediately. Our auto accident lawyer in Austin can address any issues that arise and ensure that you have the necessary documentation to support your case.

What if the Authorities Didn’t Complete a Crash Report?

In certain circumstances, such as when a crash is very minor or there are no injuries to report, the authorities may not be required to complete an accident report. Prior to September 1, 2017, you would have had to complete a Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2), where you, as the driver, would complete the necessary information.

However, as of January 1, 2019, the retention period has expired for all CR-2 forms. As a result, the Texas Department of Transportation no longer keeps the forms on their records and no longer hosts or provides copies of the forms. Instead, drivers are referred to visit txdot.gov and follow the instructions at the bottom of the page.

Need Help? Get in Touch With Our Austin Car Accident Lawyers

At Zinda Law Group, our Austin car accident attorneys have helped countless crash victims get their lives back on track after suffering an injury. We have the knowledge and resources necessary to help you build the strongest case possible and pursue maximum compensation for medical bills, property damage, loss of income due to missed work, pain and suffering, and much more.

Our firm also believes that an auto accident victim should never have to worry about their ability to afford excellent legal representation. That is why we offer 100% free consultations, and why you will pay nothing unless we win your case. That’s our “No Fee Guarantee.” Call a Zinda Law Group personal injury attorney today at (866) 264 9070.

Meetings with attorneys are available by appointment only.