After an accident on the highway, a report will likely be filed to the California highway patrol. Here’s how to get a CHP accident report.
To access a CHP accident report, you must be a party of interest. To get access to the accident report/investigation you need to fill out a CHP 190 form. CHP charges a fee for access to accident reports, but the amount varies depending on how many pages your accident report has.
Getting a CHP Accident Report
To access a CHP accident report, you must fill out a CHP 190, or a Collision Request Form. To allow a proper party of interest (i.e. driver, vehicle owner, legal guardian) to access a copy of a CHP accident report/investigation, without needing to go to the CHP Area office where the collision report was filed, the following instructions can help you complete the CHP 190:
- Collision/Incident date: If you are unsure of the exact date, provide an approximate date.
- Collision/Incident location: List as much information as possible if the exact location is unknown
- Driver or Owner: Provide the name of the driver or owner of the vehicle.
- Party of Interest: Check only one box.
- The most common parties of interest include the driver, passenger, property owner, vehicle owner, parent, or legal guardian of a minor.
- If you are unsure whether you are entitled to a copy of the report/investigation, contact any CHP Area office to verify if you are a proper party of interest.
- Applicant: Print your name in this box
- Print your number and street, city, state, and zip code
- Agency/company: Applies to government agencies or insurance companies
- Print your signature
- Submit with applicable fees
In addition to the CHP 190 form, you must provide a photocopy of your driver’s license or picture identification. If you don’t have either of those, the CHP 190 must be certified by a notary. Once you are verified as a proper party of interest and CHP receives your request, you will receive a copy of the report via mail to your address upon receipt of payment.
How Much Does it Cost to Get an Accident Report?
The CHP charges the following for collision reports:
- $10.00 — 01 – 25 pages
- $20.00 — 26 – 50 pages
- $30.00 — 51 – 75 pages
- $40.00 — 76 – 100 pages
- $10.00 — Over 100 – for each additional 25 pages or portion thereof
There is no extra charge for handling or mailing. Make your personal check or money order payable to the California Highway Patrol.
FAQs About CHP Accident Reports
Can I find CHP accident reports in my area?
Yes, you can find CHP reports by visiting myaccident.org to view accidents reported in your area.
Related: California Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Lawsuit
Who can get a copy of an accident report?
Any party interested or involved can obtain a copy of a collision report. Interested parties include, but are not limited to: insurance agencies, attorneys, coroner, caltrans, parents of minors.
Related: How to File a Car Accident Claim
Can I get a CHP accident report if my collision was investigated by a different police department?
No, you cannot get a CHP accident report if your collision was investigated by another police department. The CHP can only acquire copies of accident reports they investigate. If you’re unsure which police department handled your case, you can contact your local police department or CHP Office to help determine the proper law enforcement agency.
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If you or a loved one would like to know more about how to get a CHP accident report, get your free consultation with one of our attorneys today!