Are Police Reports Public Record in San Antonio?

A police report can serve as a key piece of evidence during a San Antonio car accident insurance claim. In Texas, a police report is considered public record. This means it can be requested by members of the public. However, specific procedures must be followed to obtain a copy of a police accident report in San Antonio. A car accident lawyer in San Antonio can help guide you through this process.

The Texas Public Information Act

When a car accident in San Antonio is reported to local law enforcement, a police officer will visit the scene to conduct an investigation and write up a report of his or her findings. This accident report will then be filed with the police precinct. Once the report is processed, it will be entered into the police department’s database, where it becomes part of public record.

Under the Texas Public Information Act (PIA), citizens have the right to inspect and copy government records unless a specific exception applies to the document or information. The PIA requires a government agency to release information in response to a valid request. According to this act, accident reports must be released to eligible individuals upon request in San Antonio and throughout Bexar County. 

Who Can Get a Copy of a Police Report in San Antonio?

While police reports are public record in San Antonio, they may only be released to the requester after the proper processes are completed. The individual seeking a copy of the report must submit an official request through the correct channels, as offered by the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD). The SAPD charges a $6 fee for copies of police reports.

The San Antonio police may restrict certain records or withhold information legally if the case contains sensitive personal data, the identification of a minor or is part of an active criminal investigation. Otherwise, the police are required under the PIA to provide the requested report in a prompt and timely manner (typically within 10 business days).

Why You Should Get a Police Report for Your San Antonio Car Accident

In Texas, the law requires drivers to report a car accident to the police if it results in physical injuries, deaths or more than $1,000 worth of property damage. If you fail to get a police report for a reportable accident within 10 days, you could face a fine or even hit-and-run allegations. Reporting a collision to the police is also wise for an injury claim.

If you plan on filing an insurance claim for injuries or property damage, the insurance company will ask to see a copy of the police report. This accident report will contain critical details and information about the wreck that can be used by an insurance company to determine fault and liability.

How to Get a Copy of Your Police Report in San Antonio

When it comes time to obtain a copy of your car accident report from the San Antonio Police Department, start by going online to the City of San Antonio website. This will give you information about how to request crash reports, with a link to the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) online system for finding and ordering reports.

Visit the TxDOT’s Crash Report Online Purchase System to search for your report using relevant details about the collision. You can request a redacted or non-redacted crash report. If you want a non-redacted copy, however, you will need to submit an affidavit certifying your involvement in the collision. You can also choose between a certified and uncertified crash report based on your needs. A certified version is generally preferred for insurance purposes and legal proceedings.

You also have the option of requesting a copy of a police accident report by mail or in person at the San Antonio Police Department Headquarters. Finally, you could request the record directly from SAPD using the case number, if known, or a description of the incident. You should keep a copy for your own personal records. Then, send the report to an auto insurance company as evidence to support your case.

If you need assistance getting a police report, contact a San Antonio personal injury lawyer from Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys.