If you’ve been in a car accident, one of the first things you might wonder is, “Can I get a copy of the accident report?” It’s a good question. In Florida, accident reports are public records, but there are some rules on when and how you can get them. If your crash happened in Tampa or anywhere else in Florida, here’s what you need to know.

Are Accident Reports Public in Florida?

Yes, car accident reports in Florida are public records, but not right away. Florida law says that these reports are private for the first 60 days after the crash. During that time, only certain people can get a copy. These include:

• People who were in the accident

• Lawyers for anyone involved

• Insurance companies handling the claim

• Police officers or other government workers

• Certain journalists or media outlets

After the 60-day waiting period, anyone can request the report, even if they weren’t involved in the crash. This rule comes from Florida Statute § 316.066. The law helps protect people’s private information right after the crash, like names, addresses, and insurance details.

Why Is the 60-Day Rule in Place?

The 60-day waiting period is meant to stop people from using crash reports in the wrong way. Sometimes, people try to get these reports right after a crash to sell services or send unwanted messages to victims. This rule gives those involved some time before their information becomes available to the public.

Once the 60 days are up, the report becomes public. You can get it if you need it for legal reasons, to help with an insurance claim, or just to learn more about what happened.

What’s in an Accident Report?

A car accident report gives a lot of helpful details about the crash. It’s written by the police officer who came to the scene. Here are some of the things you might find in the report:

• Date, time, and location of the crash

• Names and contact info of the people involved

• Witness statements

• A drawing or description of the scene

• Weather and road conditions

• What kind of damage each car had

• Any traffic tickets that were given out

• What the officer thinks caused the crash

This report can help show what happened and who may have been at fault. Insurance companies often use these reports when deciding if they will pay for damages. If you’re working with a lawyer, the report can help support your case.

How Can You Get a Copy of an Accident Report in Florida?

There are a few ways to get a car accident report in Florida. The best method depends on how soon you need it and whether the 60-day waiting period has ended.

1. Online through FLHSMV

The easiest way is through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website. You’ll need to know the date of the crash, names of the people involved, and where it happened. If it’s within 60 days, you’ll also need to show that you’re allowed to get the report by filling out a sworn statement.

Online reports usually cost $10, plus a $2 fee for using the site. It’s fast and can be done from home.

2. Local Police Departments

If your crash happened in Tampa, you can also request the report from the Tampa Police Department or the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. You can visit in person or check their website to see if they offer online services.

If it’s within 60 days, you’ll need:

• A photo ID (like a driver’s license)

• A signed form saying you’re involved or allowed to get the report

Fees vary by department, but most charge between $5 and $10 per report.

3. By Mail

If you prefer, you can also request a report by mail. You’ll need to send a letter with details about the crash:

• Date and location

• Names of people involved

• A copy of your ID

• A signed form (if it’s within 60 days)

• A check or money order for the fee

Mail your request to the agency that handled the crash, like the Tampa Police Department or the FLHSMV. Make sure to check their website for the right address and any forms you might need.

This option takes longer, so it’s not the best choice if you need the report quickly.

What If I Hire a Lawyer?

If you hire a car accident lawyer, they can get the report for you. Lawyers know how to request reports and other records that help build your case. If your crash happened in Tampa, D2 Law can handle the paperwork and make sure everything is filed correctly.

Many people find it easier to let their attorney take care of it, especially if they’re dealing with injuries or trying to get their car fixed.

Why Do You Need the Report?

The accident report is one of the most important pieces of evidence in a car crash claim. It helps show what happened, who was involved, and what the officer saw. If someone else caused the crash, the report might help prove it.

Without this report, it can be harder to get insurance to pay for damages or to win a case in court. The report also helps your lawyer find witnesses or other helpful details.

Even if the report doesn’t prove fault on its own, it gives your lawyer a place to start. They can use it to build a stronger case and gather more evidence if needed.

When Are You Required to File a Report?

In Florida, you must report a crash to the police if:

• Someone is hurt or killed

• There’s property damage over $500

• A driver leaves the scene without giving info

If any of these happen, call 911. Police will come to the scene, help anyone who’s injured, and file an official report. You don’t need to guess if you should call — just do it. It’s always safer to have a report filed, even for smaller crashes.

Need Help After a Car Accident in Tampa?

Going through a car accident is stressful enough. If you’re dealing with injuries, car damage, or confusing insurance issues, let a local attorney help. At D2 Law, we work with people in Tampa who need guidance after a crash. We’ll get your accident report, talk to the insurance companies, and help you understand your options.

Call us today at (813) 554-3232 to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to listen and help you get the support you need.