Free Consultation (800) 900-9393
Live Chat 24/7

How To Get Your Car Accident Report in San Francisco

Managing Partner

7 min read
7 min read
logo

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

You can request an incident report from your car accident from the San Francisco Police Department, either in person, online, or through the mail. Their address is:

San Francisco Police Department

Crime Information Services Unit / Records Management

1245 3rd Street, 1st Floor

San Francisco, CA 94158

  1. Send a request by mail or visit the above address
  2. Call them at 1-415-575-7232
  3. Request by email at sfpd.cisu@sfgov.org

When you are injured in a car accident, seeking compensation for your recovery may be one of your highest priorities. However, getting compensated for your significant injuries requires significant evidence, which you may not have right away. Fortunately, one of the best starting places, your car accident report, is relatively easy to pursue from the presiding police station.

Your traffic collision report includes significant information about how your accident happened, what caused it, and who may be at fault, but you may be unsure how to get your car accident report in San Francisco. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to get the help you need with your recovery. Reach out for help from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys to get the support of a car accident lawyer in San Francisco on your side as you pursue evidence.

How to Request a Car Accident Report in San Francisco

When you have been involved in a San Francisco car accident, an officer will very likely visit the scene to take down the details of what occurred. This is the car accident report, and it serves as a valuable piece of evidence in insurance or car accident claims. However, you will likely be unable to receive a copy of this at the scene.

That is because a traffic collision report is an official document and must be validated through processing. This process includes multiple steps, including analysis of the car accident investigation, finalization by the presiding deputy, and approval by their sergeant. Only once these steps are taken will your car accident report be available.

The San Francisco Police Department does make the request process as easy as it possibly can. You can take several paths to receive a copy of your car accident report, though only certain people are allowed to do so. You can also rely on the assistance of a San Francisco car accident attorney, like those of us at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, to navigate these areas if you have any difficulties at all.

Who Can Request a Car Accident Report

These reports are not available to the general public for a number of reasons. You have a right to privacy, and by maintaining the privacy of these records, the general public cannot easily access these reports. Only certain parties are allowed to request a copy of the report, including the following:

  • The passengers appearing in the report
  • The drivers involved in the wreck
  • The registered owners of the vehicle
  • Legal guardians of an involved minor
  • Anyone who experienced property damage in the wreck
  • Anyone who may be found liable
  • The attorney of anyone involved
  • The insurance company covering those involved
  • Anyone who suffered an injury in the crash, such as a bicyclist or pedestrian

Put simply, you have the right to view an accident report only if you were directly or indirectly involved in the accident. The only instances where someone not physically present for the accident is allowed a copy of the report usually involve civil cases or insurance claims. This is why you may want to consult a car accident attorney before pursuing a report.

Note
Certain restrictions on accident reports apply even if you were involved. Any situation where releasing the information could put one of the involved parties at risk, for example, or a hit-and-run situation. While you may receive a report, it may have certain information or conclusions missing.

Car Accident Reports Are Not Immediately Available

An accident report will not be immediately available after the crash and could take several days, depending on the complexity of the accident. The site must be investigated and the report approved before it can be filed with the records department. It is important to be patient and wait for it to be completed so you are not wasting your time.

The San Francisco Police Department asks that you give 5 days from the crash before requesting your report, which is a fairly fast turnaround compared to many other locations. You can always call the non-emergency number, 1-415-575-7232, to check on the status of your report. You can also visit between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, not including holidays.

Under the California Public Records Act, Cal. Gov. Code 7923.600, requesting a report without a court order is treated as a public record request. This gives law enforcement up to 10 days to produce the non-exempt records. You may want to consider a legal team like ours to help make the process smooth and simple, helping you avoid any obstacles that may lead to delays.

Request a Copy of Your San Francisco Car Accident Report

You can request your car accident report in San Francisco in several ways. Phone, email, mail, or in-person visits all provide the car accident report you need, but they may come with specific advantages or different fees. When you request your accident report, you should be prepared to give the following information regardless of the option you choose:

  • The accidentā€™s date and location
  • Your name
  • Your connection to the accident
  • The investigation number provided by the responding officer

Being prepared for any option can help you avoid delays in getting your car accident report, meaning you can put your report to use as soon as possible following the crash. However, the specifics of how you will do so will depend on the specifics of your chosen method. Check out the paths you can take below and let us know if we can help you determine the best path forward for you.

By Telephone

You can request your accident report by phone at 1-415-575-7232. Just be sure to call between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. If it is ready, they will send your report along as soon as possible, giving you the tools you need fast. .

Online

You can request records from the San Francisco Police Department through an online portal. You will need to supply a valid ID when signing up, and if you are a lawyer, you will need to include a scan of your business card. This is likely the quickest and simplest path to receiving your report.

While they prefer you not to send a request by email, you can still ask for a follow-up. Send your update request to sfpd.cisu@sfgov.org, with the subject line your SFPD case # and GOV-QA Reference #. Include the phrase “I would like an update on the status of my initial report requested.” in the message, which can help the person monitoring this inbox ensure your request is sent to the right parties.

In-Person

You can physically walk in to request an accident report from SFPD Headquarters as long as it is within business hours. However, keep in mind that reports are processed through the Crime Information Services Unit, so they will not be immediately available. There is no fee for seeking information on whether your report is ready at the following address:

San Francisco Police Department

Crime Information Services Unit / Records Management

1245 3rd Street, 1st Floor

San Francisco, CA 94158

By Mail

You can request an accident report by mail from the same address. Just be sure to fill out a traffic collision request form, available through the website in several languages. You will also need to include a form of identification with the information you send to the address below:

San Francisco Police Department

Crime Information Services Unit / Records Management

1245 3rd Street, 1st Floor

San Francisco, CA 94158

Tip
Keep in mind that whatever method you choose, you will need to present a government ID. Remember as well that your request will need to be reviewed for eligibility before you receive the report.

Fees and Processing Times

There are certain hurdles you must consider when requesting a car accident report. You cannot simply fill out a request and immediately receive the report, as these processes can take time. Receiving a report for a recent accident will be much easier than one from months or years ago, as well, so moving quickly can give your claim an advantage.

Cost of an Accident Report

Fortunately, San Francisco does not charge a fee for their reports. However, you may have to consider the price of postage if you choose to mail. Otherwise, there should be no financial gate between you and your accident report.

While San Francisco does not charge a fee for these services, keep in mind that other services might, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP). If your car accident happened on a state road, for example, your claim may instead be under the jurisdiction of the CHP, which may come with different charges and options. If you are unsure whether your best option will incur fees, you can always ask our team.

If you do incur any financial costs during this process, no matter how small they seem, notify your lawyer so these expenses can be included in your compensation. You would not have needed to pay that amount if you were hurt in an accident, so we pursue compensation, even for what may seem like minor expenses.

Request Processing Times

San Francisco also boasts a very quick turnaround on prepared requests. However, it may take some time before they are ready to send you the requested report. You should allow at least ten days for your request to be processed before it is fulfilled.

Keep in mind that the time of year and week can impact the length of time you are left waiting. For example, this time estimate typically refers to business days. That means you may find yourself delayed by the weekend.

Pro Tip
In certain situations, you may want to receive your report faster than normal. You may want to consider paying a rush fee for expedited processing. However, this may not always be available to you.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

While an accident report is important, it is only a document. If you are in need of compensation following your accident, a car accident lawyer like us at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys can help. Whether you have suffered property damage, a severe injury, or even the death of a loved one, we can help you get the compensation you need to help recover, and we offer a number of services for accident victims, including:

  • Requesting your accident report
  • Explaining the laws that impact your case
  • Calculate the full value of your claim
  • Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Keep you up to date on your case
  • Help your peace of mind by handling your complex accident claim

Our lawyers have secured millions of dollars for our clients, and we would love to add your story to our list of successes. With decades of experience on our side, our team will work with you to receive the greatest possible settlement for your accident. An accident report is much more useful with the help of those who can use it to build a claim.

Contact Text Kevin Accident Attorneys For Comprehensive Help Today

Your car accident report is a vital piece of evidence in any insurance or personal injury claim. With the help of a San Francisco car accident attorney, you have a much higher chance of success with either of those endeavors. You can trust us at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys to help you get the best possible compensation after your car wreck.

We at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys will do all we can to bring the liable parties to justice. If you have been injured due to another person’s negligence, contact us now to begin your claim. We can be reached by phone or through our online contact sheet.

Kevin received both his bachelorā€™s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Text Kevin Accident Attorneys and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffsā€™ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.

Orange County Practice Areas

Get started fast with tailored solutions for your accident claim

car icon

Car Accident

More winning, less hassle with us
  • Get support for your injury claim
  • Secure compensation with proven success
  • Strategize to win and maximize your value
FIND OUT MORE
man icon

Personal Injury

Answers, support, & solutions all in one place
  • Evaluate medical records for details and severity
  • Negotiate settlements with insurance companies
  • Represent clients in court for litigation
FIND OUT MORE
accident icon

Truck Accident

The complete legal solution
  • Investigate liability to determine fault
  • Pursue maximum compensation from insurers
  • Navigate complex regulationsĀ for successful claims
FIND OUT MORE
moto icon

Motorcycle Accident

Deliver results on time, all the time
  • Investigate causes to establish liability
  • Pursue compensation from at-fault parties
  • Navigate legal complexities for effective claims
FIND OUT MORE
wrongful death

Wrongful Death

Succeed on claims with your team
  • Establish liability in fatal accidents
  • Pursue compensation for loss and suffering
  • Navigate intricate legal pathsĀ for justice
FIND OUT MORE
bicycle accident icon

Bicycle Accident

Total commitment to guide you through
  • Establish fault in bicycle collision investigations
  • Pursue compensation for injuries and damages
  • Navigate legal complexities for fair resolution
FIND OUT MORE
catastrophic injury icon

Catastrophic Injury

Manage most any type of claim
  • Get a free consult for potential compensation
  • Establish a robust legal strategy
  • Pursue litigation avenuesĀ for your injury claim
FIND OUT MORE
pedestrian accident icon

Pedestrian Accident

Forge results your way
  • Rapid injury evaluation for pedestrian accident casesĀ 
  • Swift and strategic legal support for victimsĀ 
  • Maximize compensation with proactive legal guidance
FIND OUT MORE
Brain Injury icon

Brain Injury

Never face legal battles alone again
  • Maximize compensation for traumatic brain injuries
  • Swiftly resolve cases for financial relief
  • Experience compassionate guidance for your TBI
FIND OUT MORE
spinal cord injury

Spinal Cord Injury

Set your path to legal success
  • Optimize compensation for spinal cord injury victims
  • Navigate legal intricacies with effective representation
  • Offer empathetic support throughout your recovery
FIND OUT MORE
rideshare icon

Uber Accident

Collaborate on solutions together
  • Drive your Uber accident claim to success
  • Chart a clear route through insurance complexitiesĀ 
  • Cruise through legal challenges with our support
FIND OUT MORE
drunk drive icon

Drunk Driving Accident

Lead your case to legal success
  • Championing justice for DUI crash survivorsĀ 
  • Crafting powerful cases for injury compensationĀ 
  • Hold responsible parties accountable for their actions
FIND OUT MORE
Hit and Run Accident icon

Hit and Run Accident

Teamwork makes claims work every time
  • Swift investigation of unidentified perpetratorsĀ Ā 
  • Skillful navigation through complex legal processes
  • Hold accountable those who flee the scene
FIND OUT MORE

More winning, less hassle with us

Transform car accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Get support for your injury claim
  • Secure compensation with proven success
  • Strategize to win and maximize your value
Kevin icon
Kevin Crockett, Managing Partner

"Experience unity at our firm as I bring legal teams together for seamless collaboration and communication, ensuring successful navigation of car accident cases."

Answers, support, & solutions all in one place

Transform personal injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Evaluate medical records for details and severity
  • Negotiate settlements with insurance companies
  • Represent clients in court for litigation
Kelly Gales photo
Kelly Gales, Attorney

"Our legal team significantly accelerates personal injury claims, reducing delays when you choose us for your case."

The complete legal solution

Transform truck accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Investigate liability to determine fault
  • Pursue maximum compensation from insurers
  • Navigate complex regulationsĀ for successful claims
Kayla Johns
Kayla Johns, Case Manager

ā€œAt Text Kevin,Ā we keep clients informed with crucial updates, paving the way for successful resolutions in every case we handle.ā€

Jackknife Accident icon Jackknife Accident
Rollover Accident icon Rollover Accident
Underride Accident Underride Accident
Wide Turn Accident Wide Turn Accident
FIND OUT MORE

Deliver results on time, all the time

Transform motorcycle accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Investigate causes to establish liability
  • Pursue compensation from at-fault parties
  • Navigate legal complexities for effective claims
Mike photo
Mike Buhler, Intake Manager

ā€œStreamline communication with insurersĀ and eliminate headaches when you partner with us for your injury claim.ā€

Lane Splitting Accident Lane Splitting Accident
Left Turn Accident icon Left Turn Accident
Lane Switching Accident icon Lane Switching Accident
Corner Turning Accident Corner Turning Accident
FIND OUT MORE

Succeed on claims with your team

Transform wrongful death challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Establish liability in fatal accidents
  • Pursue compensation for loss and suffering
  • Navigate intricate legal pathsĀ for justice
Helen Vu photo
Helen Vu, Junior Case Manager

ā€œYou can easily share documents and photosĀ with our team, and weā€™ll handle the rest for a seamless resolution of your case.ā€

Total commitment to guide you through

Transform bicycle accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Establish fault in bicycle collision investigations
  • Pursue compensation for injuries and damages
  • Navigate legal complexities for fair resolution
Ryan Gloudeman
Ryan Gloudeman, Law Clerk

ā€œWith Text Kevin,Ā you can regain lost hours managing claims yourself. We not only save you time, but expedite the process.ā€

Dooring Accident icon Dooring Accident
Intersection Accident Intersection Accident
Right Hook Accident Right Hook Accident
Left Hook Accident Left Hook Accident
FIND OUT MORE

Manage most any type of claim

Transform catastrophic injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Get a free consult for potential compensation
  • Establish a robust legal strategy
  • Pursue litigation avenuesĀ for your injury claim
Jonathan Haskett photo
Jonathan Haskett, Marketing Coordinator

ā€œStay connected throughout your case with quick and easy text communication, ensuring regular updates and timely alerts on the next steps.ā€

Forge results your way

Transform pedestrian accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Rapid injury evaluation for pedestrian accident casesĀ 
  • Swift and strategic legal support for victimsĀ 
  • Maximize compensation with proactive legal guidance
Garrett Syke photo
Garrett Syke, Case Assistant

ā€œWe simplify your injury claimĀ by organizing your case and narrating your story to the insurance company so you donā€™t have to.ā€

Never face legal battles alone again

Transform brain injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Maximize compensation for traumatic brain injuries
  • Swiftly resolve cases for financial relief
  • Experience compassionate guidance for your TBI
Kevin icon
Kevin Crockett, Managing Partner

ā€œWe help visualize what results you wantĀ from your injury case and adjust our strategies to help you achieve it.ā€

Concussion Concussion
Coup Contrecoup Coup Contrecoup
Hematoma icon Hematoma
Skull Fracture Skull Fracture
FIND OUT MORE

Set your path to legal success

Transform spinal cord injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Optimize compensation for spinal cord injury victims
  • Navigate legal intricacies with effective representation
  • Offer empathetic support throughout your recovery
Craig Crockett photo
Craig Crockett, Partner

ā€œLeverage our legal teamĀ to passionately advocate for you and witness us fight to achieve the results youā€™re looking for.ā€

spinal cord injury Spinal Cord Contusion
Compression Fracture Compression Fracture
Herniated Disc Injury icon Herniated Disc
Cauda Equina Syndrome Cauda Equina Syndrome
FIND OUT MORE

Collaborate on solutions together

Transform Uber accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Drive your Uber accident claim to success
  • Chart a clear route through insurance complexitiesĀ 
  • Cruise through legal challenges with our support
Kelly Gales
Kelly Gales, Attorney

ā€œInitiate and schedule meetings instantlyĀ with our legal team, ensuring prompt notifications on the progress of your case at every step.ā€

Driver Fatigue Accident Driver Fatigue Accident
Distracted Driving Accident Distracted Driving
Speeding Accident icon Speeding Accident
Driver Inexperience Driver Inexperience
FIND OUT MORE

Lead your case to legal success

Transform DUI accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Championing justice for DUI crash survivorsĀ 
  • Crafting powerful cases for injury compensationĀ 
  • Hold responsible parties accountable for their actions
Craig Crockett photo
Craig Crockett, Partner

"At Text Kevin,Ā we value your timeĀ and expedite claim processes, providing efficient and exceptional service."

Alcohol Impaired Driving Alcohol Impaired Driving
Drug Impaired Driving Drug Impaired Driving
DUI With Drugs and Alcohol DUI with Drugs & Alcohol
Drowsy Driving Drowsy Driving
FIND OUT MORE

Teamwork makes claims work every time

Transform hit & run accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Swift investigation of unidentified perpetratorsĀ Ā 
  • Skillful navigation through complex legal processes
  • Hold accountable those who flee the scene
Mike photo
Mike Buhler, Intake Manager

ā€œHere,Ā we're all about teamwork, ensuring seamless collaboration among legal teams for successful case outcomes.ā€

Driver Intoxication Driver Intoxication
Uninsured Driver Uninsured Driver
No License No License
Stolen Vehicle Stolen Vehicle
FIND OUT MORE

Why Clients Love Text Kevin

Top-rated car accident lawyers recognized for excellence and trusted for maximum compensation in cases.

million dollar advocates forum logo

Million Dollar Advocates

Member

rating stars
super lawyers logo

Rising Stars

2023

rating stars
best lawyers logo

Ones ToĀ  Watch

2024

rating stars
google logo

Clients Love Us

rating stars
avvo logo

Clientsā€™ Choice

10.0

rating stars
attorney logo

Attorney Of The Month

2021

rating stars
client champion logo

Client Champion

2024

rating stars
Photo of Curt Schultz
Curt Schultz

ā€œGet an attorney like Kevin that is experienced and will actually manage your case. I was lucky to have found himā€

Car Accident

textkevin icon
photo of Rick Werlin
Rick Werlinā€‹

ā€œJUSTICE was served. Thank you for your knowledge and unwavering due diligence on my behalf!ā€

Pedestrian Accident

textkevin icon
photo of Jeffrey Marx
Jeffrey Marx

ā€œCrockett and his team made my first car crash experience so much easier than I expected. Thanks team!ā€

Car Accident

textkevin icon
top background dots
top background dots

Case Results

Explore our showcased victories in personal injury, where we turned challenges into triumphs for our clients.

rideshare icon

$2.75M

Rideshare Driver

2020

Car Passenger icon

$1.30M

Car Passenger

2023

Wheelchair Pedestrian icon

$1.25M

Wheelchair Pedestrian

2019

Police Car Detainee icon

$1.045M

Police Car Detainee

2023

Case Results right background dots
Case Results left background dots

Our California Offices

TORRANCE
IRVINE
ANAHEIM
SANTA ANA
MORENO VALLEY
NORWALK
INDIO
PALM SPRINGS

Overview

Services

About

About

I'm Kevin Crockett, your Torrance based personal injury lawyer at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. Specializing in various accidents, we secure victories for our clients with a proven track record. You only pay when we win. Serving Spanish speakers, we offer free 24/7 consultations for reliable legal support in Orange County.

Services
  • Free consultĀ 
  • Onsite services
Language
  • English fluent
  • Spanish fluent
  • Vietnamese fluent
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible
Amenities
  • Restroom
  • Free parking
Crowd
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
Availability
  • Open 24 hrs.

Overview

Reviews

Photos

Services

About

Photos

INTERIOR interior photo
TEAM Kevin Crockett Law
EXTERIOR exterior
EVENT Processed with VSCO with al3pro preset
CLIENT client
INTERIOR interior photo
EXTERIOR exterior
TEAM TEAM
EVENT Processed with VSCO with al1pro preset

About

I'm Kevin Crockett, your Irvine based personal injury lawyer at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. Specializing in various accidents, we secure victories for our clients with a proven track record. You only pay when we win. Serving Spanish speakers, we offer free 24/7 consultations for reliable legal support in Orange County.

Services
  • free consult Free consultĀ 
  • Onsite services icon Onsite services
Language
  • american flag English fluent
  • spanish flag Spanish fluent
  • Vietnamese flag Vietnamese fluent
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible icon Wheelchair accessible
Amenities
  • restroom icon Restroom
  • free parking icon Free parking
Crowd
  • lgbtq+ icon LGBTQ+ friendly
Availability
  • open 24 hr icon Open 24 hrs.

Overview

Reviews

Photos

Services

About

Photos

INTERIOR INTERIOR
TEAM Kevin Crockett Law Team
EVENT event
CLIENT client photo
INTERIOR INTERIOR
EXTERIOR EXTERIOR
TEAM Kevin Crockett Law
EVENT event
EXTERIOR BUILDING

About

I'm Kevin Crockett, your Anaheim based personal injury lawyer at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. Specializing in various accidents, we secure victories for our clients with a proven track record. You only pay when we win. Serving Spanish speakers, we offer free 24/7 consultations for reliable legal support in Orange County.

Services
  • free consult Free consultĀ 
  • Onsite services icon Onsite services
Language
  • american flag English fluent
  • spanish flag Spanish fluent
  • Vietnamese flag Vietnamese fluent
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible icon Wheelchair accessible
Amenities
  • restroom icon Restroom
  • free parking icon Free parking
Crowd
  • lgbtq+ icon LGBTQ+ friendly
Availability
  • open 24 hr icon Open 24 hrs.

Overview

Reviews

Photos

Services

About

Photos

EXTERIOR EXTERIOR
EVENT event
INTERIOR CONFERENCE ROOM
Team textkevin office
EVENT event
CLIENT client
EXTERIOR EXTERIOR
Interior INTERIOR
Team Kevin Crockett Law

About

I'm Kevin Crockett, your Santa Ana based personal injury lawyer at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. Specializing in various accidents, we secure victories for our clients with a proven track record. You only pay when we win. Serving Spanish speakers, we offer free 24/7 consultations for reliable legal support in Orange County.

Services
  • free consult Free consultĀ 
  • Onsite services icon Onsite services
Language
  • american flag