Catania and Catania | February 17, 2025 | Car Accidents
Yes, in Tampa, FL, car accident reports are public record; however, in the first 60 days, the reports are restricted. Fatigue — Witnesses are often so traumatized after a crash that they don’t catch the details right after it happens. Per Florida Statute § 316.066(2), accident reports are only available after this initial period. In contrast, traffic crash reports in electronic storage will be made available to the public after this initial period. Access within the 60 days is limited to certain parties, including those involved in the accident, their lawyers, their insurance companies, and federal agencies.
It also prevents those without approval from potentially misusing reports and ensures authorized people can access reports to take legal or insurance actions. After the 60-day confidentiality period has lapsed, the report will occasionally be made accessible via the official channels, and anyone who requests it will be able to obtain it.
Accident reports are routinely made available to Tampa residents through local law enforcement agencies, such as the Tampa Police Department or the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Why Do You Need an Accident Report?
When it comes to filing insurance claims or resolving legal disputes, an accident report is essential evidence. It includes factual information about the incident that will aid in establishing liability, such as:
- The accident’s date, time, and location.
- Name(s) and contact information of the driver(s) involved.
- Statements from witnesses and observations by the responding officer.
- Sketch or description of the scene of the accident.
- Citations or violations are written at the scene.
For those injured in a car accident in Tampa, this report is critical to proving fault and seeking damages. Without it, insurance companies or the courts might question your claim. Laboratory services can sometimes involve differences in billing practice as well.
Having accurate documentation from an official source makes it much easier for your version of events to have its fair shot at being supported by credible evidence.
What Information Does the Car Accident Report Contain?
Accident reports completed by law enforcement officers contain a great deal of information that can be useful when filing a personal injury claim.
Information in a crash report includes, but is not limited to:
- The identity of the drivers and passengers involved in the crash
- The location, date, and time of the car accident
- The road and weather conditions at the time of the car accident
- A description of each vehicle involved in the wreck and the damage sustained by each vehicle
- Statements made to police officers by drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- A diagram of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles
- Insurance information for each vehicle
- Whether the drivers received traffic tickets related to the accident
- Whether a driver contributed to the cause of the collision, according to the investigating police officer
The conclusions in a car accident report are not necessarily proof of fault. In some cases, an insurance company might accept the police officer’s conclusions regarding who caused the crash. However, the insurance company might investigate the crash to gather additional evidence before deciding whether to deny or approve an accident claim.
How Do I Look Up an Accident Report in Florida?
To obtain an accident report in Florida, you can request it online, in person, or by mail. The process depends on the reporting agency and whether the 60-day restriction period has passed.
Here are the most common methods:
Online Request through the FLHSMV
The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website offers a convenient way to search and request accident reports online. To do so, you will need to provide specific information, such as the date of the accident, the names of the individuals involved, and the location of the crash. Reports typically cost $10, plus a $2 convenience fee for online access. This method is fast and accessible, especially for those who cannot visit a local office. Remember that if the 60-day restriction period is still in effect, you must certify your eligibility by submitting an affidavit online.
Local Law Enforcement Agencies
If the crash occurred within Tampa, accident reports can be requested from local agencies such as the Tampa Police Department or the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. For restricted reports, you must present:
- A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport).
- A notarized sworn statement verifying your involvement in the accident or your eligibility to access the report under Florida law.
The fee for these reports varies by agency but is generally between $5 and $10. This option is ideal for individuals who prefer to handle requests in person or need immediate assistance.
By Mail
For those unable to visit in person or use online services, requesting a crash report by mail is another option. Write a formal request letter to the agency responsible for the report (e.g., Tampa Police Department). Be sure to include:
- The accident’s date, location, and names of the parties involved.
- A copy of your photo ID.
- A signed affidavit if the report is restricted.
- Payment in the form of a check or money order, along with your return address.
Processing times for mailed requests can vary, so this method is best if the report is not urgently needed. Always verify the agency’s mailing address and requirements before sending your request.
Verify the agency’s specific procedures before submitting your request, as they may vary slightly across departments.
How Do I Get a Copy of My Car Accident Report in Tampa, Florida?
You should be able to access your car accident report online through the FLHSMV. You can print your car accident report by paying the $10 fee, plus a $2 convenience fee.
If you do not have access to online records, you can also request a copy of the car accident report by mail. You must mail the required forms and the fee to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The address is 2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS28 in Tallahassee, FL 32399. Make the envelope to the attention of Crash Records.
If the Tampa Police Department investigated your accident, you could also request copies of traffic accident reports online through the City of Tampa. The reports are only available after 60 days from the date of the car crash. If you request a report within 60 days of the date of the accident, you must submit a Sworn Statement for Traffic Crash Report Information form and a copy of your current photo identification.
When you hire a car accident lawyer to handle your injury claim, your attorney will obtain a copy of the police report. If you want a copy for your records, you can ask your attorney to give you a copy of the report.
Why Are Car Accident Reports Restricted for 60 Days?
Car accident reports in Florida are restricted for 60 days to protect the privacy and security of those involved. This confidentiality period prevents unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as personal details of drivers and witnesses, which unscrupulous parties, including identity thieves or solicitation firms, could misuse.
The restriction also aligns with Florida Statute § 316.066(3), which seeks to balance public access to records with privacy concerns. To prevent fraudulent use, parties who are eligible to access restricted reports must sign a sworn affidavit confirming their eligibility.
Once the 60 days ends, accident reports become public records, ensuring transparency and allowing anyone to access the information. Tampa residents should remember that even after the restriction period, redacted versions of reports may be provided to protect particularly sensitive details, such as Social Security numbers.
When Do I Need to File a Car Accident Report in Florida?
If you are involved in a car crash, you are required to stop and exchange information with the other driver. Failing to stop at an accident scene can result in criminal charges and penalties. All traffic accidents that result in property damage of $500 or more or result in personal injury or death must be reported to the state.
It is wise to report all car accidents to the police immediately. Calling 911 is the fastest way to report the collision and request assistance.
An emergency operator will dispatch the correct law enforcement officials to investigate the crash. The operator can also dispatch emergency medical services to the accident scene.
If you do not believe you require emergency medical services, say that you will follow up with your doctor. Do not say that you are uninjured. Statements you make at the accident scene could be used to dispute a personal injury claim.
Car accidents can result in significant damages. Florida’s no-fault insurance laws restrict who can file a claim for damages. If you were injured in a car crash, a personal injury lawyer could review your case to determine whether you might be entitled to compensation for damages from the at-fault driver.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Tampa, FL
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, and need legal help, contact our Tampa car accident lawyers at Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers
Bank of America Plaza
101 E Kennedy Blvd #2400
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 222-8656
We also provide legal assistance throughout the Tampa Bay Area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Bradenton.
Paul B. Catania
With more than 30 years of experience, Paul specializes in personal injury cases, auto accidents, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. As a co-founder of Catania & Catania, alongside his brother, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Florida and his Juris Doctor from Stetson University.
Licensed to practice in all Florida courts, including the Florida Supreme Court and federal courts, this Tampa attorney is committed to advocating for justice in the community. As seen in the AV Preeminent award.
call us 813-222-8656
