How to Look Up an Accident Report in Colorado After a Car Crash

Accident reports are crucial for insurance claims, legal cases, and personal records, as they provide an official account of a crash. In Colorado, different agencies handle these reports depending on the location and severity of the accident. 

Knowing where to request your report ensures you have the necessary documentation to support your claim. A car accident attorney at Boesen Law can help you understand your rights, interpret the report, and use it to strengthen your case. In this guide, we cover how to obtain an accident report in Colorado and what information you’ll need for a successful request. 

Where to Get Your Colorado Accident Report

Accident reports in Colorado are maintained by various entities, including law enforcement agencies, the Colorado State Patrol, and the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR). The appropriate agency to contact depends on the specifics of your accident:

Through the Colorado State Patrol

The Colorado State Patrol manages reports for accidents occurring on highways and state roads. To obtain a report, you can submit a request online through the CSP’s official website or reach out to the office corresponding to your accident’s location.

Processing typically takes up to 10 business days after the accident investigation concludes. Once ready, the report will be sent to you via your chosen delivery method upon receipt of your request and payment.

Through the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR)

The Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR) maintains official crash records for legal and insurance purposes through the DRIVES database. To obtain a copy of your accident report, complete the DR2489 form and submit it along with the required fee.

Processing can take up to 90 days from the date of the accident, as reports must be received from the investigating law enforcement agency and entered into the driver license system. 

Through Local Law Enforcement Agencies

If your accident occurred within a city or county jurisdiction, the local police department or sheriff’s office would handle the report. To obtain a copy, reach out to the police department or sheriff’s office where the accident occurred (for example, accidents in Denver are managed by the Denver Police Department).

The processing time and fees vary by agency. Some provide online access to reports, while others may require in-person or mail requests.

How to Request an Accident Report

Requesting an accident report in Colorado requires following the correct procedure based on the agency handling your case. Different agencies have specific request methods, fees, and processing times. You can request an accident report by using the following methods:

• Online: The Colorado State Patrol and some local police departments provide accident reports through their websites. Availability depends on the agency, and processing times vary, so check their specific requirements beforehand to prevent delays.
• By mail: If requesting a report by mail, you must submit a written request along with the required payment to the appropriate agency. Reports may take longer to arrive by mail.
• In-person: Visiting the police department, sheriff’s office, or Colorado State Patrol office allows you to request a report directly. Some agencies provide same-day copies, while others require additional processing time before releasing the document.

What Information Do You Need to Request a Report?

Ensure you have all the required information and identification when making your request to avoid delays and facilitate a smoother process. Usually, you’ll need:

• Date and location of the accident.
• Names of involved parties.
• Case number, if provided by the responding officer.
• Name of the law enforcement agency that handled the crash.

Having this information readily available will expedite your request.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Report?

The time it takes to receive an accident report in Colorado depends on the agency handling it. The Colorado State Patrol and the Department of Revenue (DOR) typically take up to ten business days to process reports after completing the investigation. 

On the other hand, local law enforcement agencies may have shorter or longer wait times, depending on their internal procedures and case volume. Some reports are available within a few days, while others may take weeks. 

Checking with the specific agency is the best way to get an accurate timeline. Keep in mind that most agencies charge fees for certified copies.

What If You Can’t Find Your Report?

If you can’t find your accident report, contact the law enforcement agency that investigated the crash. Some reports take longer to process, especially if the accident is still under active investigation, in which case law enforcement won’t release the report until the case is resolved. 

Additionally, remember that if you self-reported the accident online without police involvement, it will probably not appear in official law enforcement databases.

What If You Need a Report for a Legal Case?

Accident reports document key details about the crash and serve as essential evidence in insurance claims, personal injury cases, and legal disputes. They include information on the involved parties, citations issued, and preliminary assessments of fault, all of which can impact a legal claim.

If your crash resulted in severe injuries or liability disputes, a Colorado car accident lawyer can assist in obtaining and interpreting the report, ensuring it supports your case. During a free consultation, our team can clarify how long a car accident settlement takes and estimate the potential value of your claim.

How We Help – Contact a Car Accident Lawyer at Boesen Law for Assistance

After a car accident in Colorado, Boesen Law offers:

• Free in-person consultations: Discuss your case with our experienced attorneys without any financial obligation.
• Decades of experience: Our firm has a proven track record of assisting injured clients throughout Colorado, securing hundreds of millions in compensation.
• 24/7 availability: We’re available around the clock to address your concerns.
• No fee unless we win: You won’t incur any legal fees unless we secure compensation on your behalf.

If you’re struggling to obtain your accident report or need legal guidance after a crash, contact us today for a free consultation.