How to Obtain a Car Accident Report from the Police Department in LA County

Traffic collision reports are a critical element of your claim for two reasons. First, they will help reconstruct the scene of the accident and how it happened. Second, they will have all the pertinent information regarding your accident. This will include identified names of the driver and any witnesses. It will also include proper insurance information and any other necessary information needed to pursue your case. Most importantly it will assign who was at fault for the accident and note their condition at the time of the incident. This will be important during the negotiations phase of your case. If you have significant injuries or were transported via ambulance it will be noted in the police report. Obtaining a copy of your police report can be done in person or through a mail in request. Police reports will usually be ready with 3-5 days after the accident. If you are able, you can enter into the police station and pick up a copy from the records department. Remember a $10-$25 fee will apply depending on the location. In cases where you are unable to obtain a copy, you can designate a 3rd party-friend, family or spouse-to pick up the report on your behalf. To do so they will need express written consent from you along with a copy of your picture I.D. and the report number. Report numbers will be on a small slip of paper provided to you at the scene of the accident. If you were transported to the hospital an no papers were given to you, the records department can identify you by name and date of the incident. It is also possible for your attorney to obtain a copy, however this process can take 2-3 weeks and slow the process down. Regardless of the option you select to obtain your report, make sure that you have a copy of your report. It will be instrumental in the success of your case. Links to  Police Departments in Los Angeles County: Los Angeles Police Department Beverly Hills Police Department Burbank Police Department Culver City Police Department El Monte Police Department Gardena Police Department Inglewood Police Department Long Beach Police Department Pasadena Police Department Glendale Police Department Santa Monica Police Department