A car accident in Los Angeles can leave you hurt, overwhelmed with mounting bills, and unsure of what to do next. One of the first and most essential steps in protecting your rights is obtaining a copy of your Los Angeles accident report from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). This document is often the foundation for your insurance claim or potential personal injury case.
And we can help.
At Silva Injury Law, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers understand how stressful this process can feel. Our team helps injury victims across California access the documents and evidence they need to move forward with their claims. We also assist clients in interpreting what’s included in their reports and explaining how this information may affect liability or damages. We believe in taking care of the details so you can focus on getting better.
For a free consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call (209) 600-4389 today.
What Is a Crash Report?
A crash or collision report is a formal record prepared by the officer who responded to your accident.
It typically includes:
- The date, time, and location of the collision;
- The names and contact information of all parties involved;
- Vehicle and insurance information;
- Statements from drivers and witnesses; and
- The officer’s description of how the crash occurred.
This document is critical evidence for insurance claims and personal injury cases. It helps identify fault and can significantly influence the compensation you receive for your injuries, property damage, and financial losses.
Who Can Request a LAPD Accident Report?
Only authorized individuals may obtain a copy, including the following:
- Victims of the collision,
- Any driver (or their guardian) involved in the crash,
- Parent of a minor driver,
- Authorized representatives of the driver or injured victim,
- Owner of the vehicle or property damaged, and
- An attorney who represents any of the above.
These rules help protect privacy while ensuring victims and their legal representatives can access crucial documentation.
How to Make an LA Police Report Request
You can obtain your LAPD traffic collision report in two main ways: online or by mail. Both options require basic identifying information and a $20 processing fee.
Online Request
Before submitting your LAPD accident report request online, wait at least 45 days from the date of the collision to give the LAPD time to review and approve the report for release.
Once this time has passed, follow these steps to request your report online:
- Visit the LAPD Traffic Collision Report Portal,
- Select English or Spanish, and
- Search for your accident report using one of three options.
- Option 1. Type in your accident report number,
- Option 2. Type in your last name and the date of the accident, or
- Option 3. Type in your last name and the street where the accident occurred.
Reports involving a fatality, arrest, or juvenile must be requested by United States Mail. Similarly, reports issued before February 1, 2016, can also only be obtained by mail.
Request by Mail
If you prefer or are required to request your report by mail, download and complete the Traffic Collision Report Request Form from the LAPD website.
Mail your completed form, along with a $20 check or money order payable to the Los Angeles Police Department, to:
Los Angeles Police Department
Records and Identification Division
Document Processing Unit
P.O. Box 30158
Los Angeles, CA 90030
If you are unable to print or view the LA police report request form, you can send a written request with the following information:
- Identify the request as a traffic report;
- Your name, address, and phone number;
- LA report number or incident number (if you have it);
- Your birth date;
- Names of the parties listed in the report;
- Date and time of the accident;
- Location of the accident;
- Involved vehicles’ license plates and state of registration;
- Explain your interest in the report (e.g., victim, driver, authorized representative);
- Include the following statement: “I declare this statement is true and correct.”; and
- Sign and date your request.
You can call the LAPD’s recorded information line at (213) 486-8130 for status updates.
Let Silva Injury Law Help You Obtain Your LAPD Traffic Collision Report
Obtaining your Los Angeles accident report is one of the most important things you can do after a collision.
At Silva Injury Law, we handle every detail of your case, allowing you to focus entirely on your recovery. You don’t have to face this process alone. Let our experienced trial attorneys guide you with the compassion and determination that define us.
Contact us online or call (209) 600-4389 today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight to help you get the justice you deserve.
CALL 
EMAIL 
Ask AI 
Access