Anderson Injury Lawyers | September 5, 2025 | Car Accidents
Car accidents can be overwhelming. Between injuries, car repairs, and insurance claims, the last thing on your mind may be paperwork. However, in Texas, a car accident report is one of the most important documents you can have after a crash. It can protect your rights, serve as evidence, and make the claims process smoother.
Understanding how these reports work—and why they matter—can make a huge difference if you ever need to pursue compensation.
What Is a Car Accident Report?
A car accident report is an official document created by law enforcement after a crash. In Texas, this report is often called the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (Form CR-3). It details how and where the accident happened, who was involved, and whether any laws were broken.
This report is not just a piece of paper. It is often the foundation of any legal or insurance claim that follows. Having accurate information in the report can protect you if there are disputes about fault or damages later.
When Do You Need to File a Report in Texas?
Texas law requires that police be notified after an accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage of more than $1,000. In most cases, an officer will come to the scene and prepare the report.
If police do not respond, drivers may be required to file a Driver’s Crash Report (Form CR-2) themselves. This must usually be submitted within 10 days of the accident. Even if the crash seems minor, it is always better to report it. A small scratch today may turn into a bigger repair tomorrow, and without a report, you may have a harder time proving what happened.
What Information Does the Report Include?
A car accident report usually contains a wide range of details, including:
- Date, time, and location of the crash
- Names, addresses, and contact details of all drivers and passengers
- Insurance information for each vehicle
- Witness statements, if available
- Road, weather, and traffic conditions
- Diagrams of the crash scene
- Officer observations, including possible violations of traffic laws
This information creates an official record of the accident that lawyers, insurance companies, and courts can use. Every detail matters, so it is important to check your report for accuracy once it is available.
How Do You Get a Copy of Your Report?
In Texas, you can request a copy of the crash report through the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Requests can often be made online, by mail, or in person. There are usually two versions of the report: a short form and a long form. The long form provides full details, including officer notes and diagrams.
There may be a small fee to obtain it, but it is well worth it if you plan to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
How Do Insurance Companies Use the Report?
After a car accident, insurance adjusters might review the police report to decide who should pay and how much. They look for details like whether a driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was under the influence. If the report clearly shows the other driver was at fault, it can speed up your claim and help you get the compensation you deserve.
On the other hand, if there are errors in the report, it could hurt your case. That is why obtaining a copy and ensuring the information is correct is important. If you notice mistakes, speak with a lawyer immediately about how to address them.
Contact Our Dallas Car Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Car accident reports may seem like paperwork, but they carry enormous weight in protecting your rights and helping you recover after a crash. Whether you are dealing with injuries, property damage, or disputes with insurance companies, the accident report is one of the most powerful tools you have.
If you are unsure how to get your report or how to use it in your case, contacting our Dallas car accident attorney can provide the guidance you need to move forward with confidence. Call Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth or Dallas and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
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