By The Perazzo Law Firm – Texas Car Accident Attorneys
After a car crash, one of the first questions many drivers ask is:
- Are car accident reports public record in Texas?
- Who can actually see the crash report?
- What are they used for?
- How could they affect my insurance or legal claim?
The truth is that while Texas makes most collision records public, access comes with strict privacy protections. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Texas accident report laws, how to get a copy, what’s inside, and how it can impact your case.
Are Car Accident Reports Public Record in Texas?
Yes—but with limitations. Under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 550, car accident reports are considered public records. These reports, officially known as the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3), contain vital details about the collision.
However, not all information is available to the general public. Personal details such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and medical information are redacted for privacy reasons. In short, car accident records are public, but access depends on who you are and why you’re requesting them.
Who Can Access a Crash Report in Texas?
According to Texas Transportation Code Sec. 550.065, only certain parties are eligible to access unredacted crash reports:
- Drivers involved in the accident
- Passengers or injured individuals
- Vehicle owners
- Law enforcement agencies
- Insurance provider
- Legal representatives
Anyone outside these categories, like researchers, media, or third parties, can only receive limited reports with personal data removed.
How to Get a Copy of a Crash Report in Texas
There are two main ways to request a Texas crash report.
Through the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT):
- Access via the TxDOT Crash Report Purchase System online.
- Reports cost between $6 and $8.
- You’ll need details such as:
- Date of the crash
- County where it occurred
- Names of the drivers involved
Through Local Law Enforcement:
- If city or county police filed the report, you can request a copy directly at the local police department or sheriff’s office.
Tip: Bring proof of your connection to the crash (for example, a driver’s license or insurance claim number) to receive the unredacted version.
What’s Included in a Texas CR-3 Crash Report?
A Texas CR-3 report is a comprehensive summary of the accident and includes:
- Date, time, and location of the crash – This information establishes the exact circumstances of the incident, which can be crucial for verifying timelines, weather conditions, and jurisdictional details in your case.
- Names and addresses of involved drivers and passengers – The report lists everyone involved, helping attorneys, insurance companies, and investigators identify key witnesses or potential parties to the claim.
- Vehicle descriptions and VINs – Each vehicle’s make, model, color, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are recorded to accurately document ownership and ensure the correct cars are linked to the crash.
- Insurance details – he report includes each driver’s insurance provider and policy number, allowing parties to begin the claims process and verify active coverage at the time of the collision.
- Officer’s narrative and diagram of the crash scene – This section provides a professional summary of how the crash occurred, often including sketches or diagrams that visually depict the direction of travel and point of impact.
- Contributing factors such as speeding or distracted driving – Officers note any behaviors or conditions, like texting while driving, alcohol use, or running a red light, that may have caused or worsened the collision.
- Citations or violations issued – Any tickets or citations documented in the report can serve as evidence of fault or negligence, significantly influencing insurance negotiations or legal proceedings.
These details are crucial for determining fault and are often used by attorneys and insurance adjusters during claims or lawsuits.
How Long Do Accidents Stay on Your Record in Texas?
An accident generally stays on your driving record for three years, though insurance companies may retain the information for up to five years. Serious violations like DUIs or reckless driving can remain much longer.
It’s important to distinguish between a crash report, which documents the incident for legal purposes, and your driving record, which is maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Why Car Accident Reports Matter in Legal Cases
A crash report can make or break your case. The official narrative helps establish fault under Texas’s modified comparative negligence law, supports insurance negotiations, and serves as evidence in court.
Example: If Driver A runs a red light and hits Driver B, the police report confirming the violation becomes powerful proof that strengthens Driver B’s injury claim.
At The Perazzo Law Firm, we use these reports to build strong personal injury cases and maximize client compensation.
FAQs
Are car accident reports public record in Texas?
Yes, but full access is limited to those directly involved or their representatives.
What is a Texas CR3 crash report?
It’s the official report form used by law enforcement to record crash details under state law.
Who can request a car accident report in Texas?
Drivers, vehicle owners, lawyers, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies.
How long do car accidents stay on your record in Texas?
Typically 3 years, but up to 5 for insurance purposes.
Can I see a list of car accidents by county in Texas?
Yes, TxDOT maintains databases where accident data can be searched by county or city.
Know Your Rights and Use the Report to Your Advantage
Car accident reports in Texas are public, but access is restricted for privacy reasons. These reports play a critical role in insurance claims, settlements, and personal injury cases. If you’ve been in a crash, obtain your report as soon as possible and let your Perazzo Law Firm attorney use it to support your case in order to improve your chances of a successful insurance claim for compensation.
Injured in a Texas Car Crash? The Perazzo Law Firm Can Help
The Accident Lawyers at the Perazzo Law Firm provide:
- Free consultations – We offer completely free case evaluations so accident victims can understand their legal options and the strength of their case without any financial obligation.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) legal support – Our team proudly serves both English- and Spanish-speaking communities across Texas, ensuring every client can communicate clearly and confidently throughout the legal process.
- Help requesting crash reports and proving liability – We guide clients step by step through obtaining official crash reports, analyzing evidence, and establishing fault to build the strongest possible personal injury claim.
- No fees unless we win – At The Perazzo Law Firm, we work on a contingency basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid when we successfully recover compensation for you.
