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How to Get a Police Report After a Car Accident

And Why It Matters for Your Case

Table of Contents

Close-up view of sections A - D of a blank car accident report.

The Short Answer

In Alabama, you are required to file an accident report within 30 days after a car accident, if the crash caused injury, death, or more than $250 of property damage. If the accident caused injuries, death, or more than $500 of property damage, you must file a SR-31 report. You can obtain a copy of the accident report online, by mail, or through your attorney. This report serves as an official record of the incident and can help your attorney negotiate with insurance companies.

Key Takeaways

  • While a police report cannot be used as evidence in Alabama car accident cases, it can give your attorney more negotiating power when discussing settlement amounts with the insurance company.
  • After a car crash in Alabama, you can request a copy of the accident report via the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s website, or your attorney can request one for you.
  • Long & Long Injury Attorneys can handle all aspects of your car accident claim, with no upfront fees or out-of-pocket costs to you.

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How Can a Police Report Impact Your Car Accident Case?

A police report can provide an objective account of the accident, including details such as:

  • Date, time, and location of the accident
  • Identities and contact information of involved parties and witnesses
  • Descriptions of vehicle positions and damages
  • Weather and road conditions at the time of the accident
  • Any citations or violations issued

In Alabama, police reports typically are not admissible evidence in court proceedings. However, this information can help your attorney determine liability, estimate a fair settlement, and make a more compelling case for maximum compensation on your behalf. 

How to Find a Police Report Online

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) provides an online portal to access crash reports. Follow these steps:

1. Visit ALEA’s Online Portal

Navigate to the ALEA Driver Records Division’s crash reports page.

2. Enter Your Information

Provide the required details, such as the driver’s full name, date of birth, driver’s license number, county of accident, accident date, and specific location details.

3. Select Your Accident Report

Use the provided information to locate your specific report and select it from the search results.

4. Pay & Download Your Report

The fee for obtaining a crash report online is $15.00. After payment, you can download and print your report.

How to Get Your Accident Report by Mail

If you prefer to obtain your accident report by mail, follow these steps:

1. Obtain the Crash Report Request Form

Download and print the form from the ALEA website.

2. Complete the Form

Fill in the required details, including your name, address, driver’s full name, date of birth, driver’s license number, county of accident, accident date, and specific location details.

3. Prepare Payment

Attach a $15.00 cashier’s check, certified check, or money order payable to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

4. Mail the Form and Payment

Send the completed form and payment to:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Crash Reports
P.O. Box 1471
Montgomery, AL 36102-1471

Ensure you enclose an empty self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your report.

If you’re struggling with how to find a police report online, an experienced attorney can help you. Reach out to Long & Long for a free case review; we’ll discuss the details of your case to determine the best next steps.

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FAQs

Am I required to file a police report after a car accident?

Yes, under Alabama law, if the accident results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $250, you must file a written report within 30 days.

Will the officer who arrived on the scene of the accident have to testify in my case?

The police report usually serves as the official record of the officer’s account of the accident. The officer is not obligated to testify unless the case proceeds to trial and their testimony is considered essential.

What if I am being blamed for the accident?

If you are being blamed for the accident, it is critical to get a copy of the police report, as it offers an unbiased account of the incident that can help your attorney prove you were not at fault.

Your attorney can help you understand your legal rights and the steps to take after a car accident. Get a free case review with Long & Long Injury Attorneys to discover whether you’re eligible for compensation.

Get Your Free Case Review 24/7

Your Attorney Can Request Your Report for You

When you work with an attorney, they can obtain the police report on your behalf. This ensures that all necessary documentation is collected promptly and can be used effectively in your case.

If you have questions about how to find a police report after a car accident in Alabama, Long & Long Injury Attorneys can help. We serve car accident victims in Mobile, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, and throughout the state. There are no upfront fees to work with us, which means there’s no risk to you. Contact us today so we can get started on your case and you can focus on your recovery.

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