If you’re asking, “How can I get a police report after an accident in Houston?”, you should know that you can purchase your crash report online through the Texas Department of Transportation for a small fee.
Crash reports are important because they provide your Houston car accident lawyer with an official, third-party record of the accident’s details, which can help establish fault, support your injury claim, and strengthen negotiations with insurance companies.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a Houston auto accident, it’s time to get a free consultation with our law firm. Call us today; we can help you gain access to your Houston crash report and build a strong claim for compensation on your behalf.
Buying a Houston Accident Report Online
You can purchase a copy of a Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3) through the online crash report system. After completing your purchase, the report will be emailed to you. A small service fee is added when you use the online system.
Requesting Crash Data or Multiple Reports
If you need crash data or multiple crash IDs, you can submit an online Crash Data Request Form. Some users may also find it helpful to search public crash information using the CRIS Query Tool or review annual data reports.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Crash Report?
To get an accident report in Houston, TX, you will need to pay a small fee. Crash reports cost:
- $6 for a regular copy
- $8 for a certified copy, which is often needed for court or official use
Extra processing fees may apply if you pay by credit card.
Subpoenas and affidavits cost $8 each, whether they are for state court, federal court, or a sworn affidavit.
(310) 526-8383Why Is a Houston Crash Report So Important?
The police report often serves as a foundational piece of evidence after a Houston motor vehicle accident. Insurance adjusters review it when assessing fault, and attorneys frequently rely on it to begin investigating liability.
Within the report, you may find information that establishes a timeline, identifies witnesses, or references potential traffic violations. Even when responsibility seems obvious, this official record can help reinforce your position and reduce the likelihood of disputes. It may also help support your claim for compensation.
Important Things to Know Before Filing
The Texas Department of Transportation keeps crash records for the past ten full calendar years plus the current year.
Under the Texas Transportation Code, crash reports must be purchased individually. This means bulk copies of reports cannot be provided all at once. Instead, you will receive crash ID numbers so you can buy the reports you need later.
The law also limits access to certain confidential information. For example, you generally cannot request a list of all crashes involving a specific person unless you are legally entitled to that information.
(310) 526-8383Filing a Subpoena or Affidavit Request
All requests for car crash records must follow the requirements set by the Texas Transportation Code. You can now submit subpoena or affidavit requests electronically through the CRIS Request System.
This online system, introduced in August 2024, allows users to search for crash reports, upload legal documents in PDF format, and submit requests digitally. Beginning January 1, 2025, requests will no longer be accepted by mail. The older CR-91 form is no longer required, and mailed requests will simply be returned.
After you submit your request and pay the $8 fee plus a small service charge, the system will send you updates on your request status. Once processed, you will receive an email with a download link for your documents.
Processing Times
Typical processing times are:
- Affidavit only: about 10 business days
- Affidavit with a state or federal subpoena: about 10 business days
- State or federal subpoena only: about 20 business days
Questions about subpoena or affidavit requests can be directed to the Texas Department of Transportation. If you need records from the Texas Department of Public Safety, you must submit a separate request to that agency, as it will not be included in the transportation department request.
Have you been involved
in an accident?
(310) 526-8383 Let a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Help You With Your Crash Report
Now you know the answer to, “How can I get a police report after an accident in Houston?”
Obtaining a police report after a crash is a practical step that can help protect your rights and organize your claim. By requesting the document promptly, confirming its accuracy, and keeping it accessible, you place yourself in a stronger position if questions arise later.
If you would like more information about accident claims or the legal process, visit our FAQ page to learn more. You can also contact Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys to request a free consultation and discuss how we may be able to assist you after your accident.
