You can get a police accident report in Kannapolis, NC, by requesting it by mail or in person, but due to federal privacy laws, reports are regulated to protect personal information and are only available in redacted form for individuals. Attorneys, however, can obtain full reports.
A Kannapolis car accident lawyer is one of the businesses or organizations permitted to request an unredacted crash report under federal law. Lawyers can use these reports to analyze liability, gather evidence, and build a strong claim for damages on behalf of their clients.
Why is a Police Accident Report Important?
A police accident report helps attorneys demonstrate negligence and liability. These reports include the officer’s account of the crash, statements from drivers and any witnesses, and any citations issued at the scene.
Insurance companies often use accident reports as part of their investigation to decide fault and evaluate claims. A Kannapolis personal injury lawyer can review the report to identify evidence that supports their client’s case, address any discrepancies, and use it to negotiate with insurers or prepare for court.
Federal Privacy Laws and Crash Reports
The Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and North Carolina state law, N.C.G.S. 20-43.1, protect the personal information of individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents by restricting who can access certain details within a crash report.
These laws safeguard sensitive, private information, such as names, addresses, and driver’s license numbers, which may appear in these reports. Under the DPPA, individuals requesting a crash report typically receive a redacted version, where personal details of anyone involved are removed to safeguard their privacy.
These redacted reports are available to individuals involved in the crash, but only by mail or in person; online access is not permitted.
How to Get an Unredacted Police Accident Report in Kannapolis, NC
To obtain an unredacted police report, you must meet the DPPA’s permissible use criteria and demonstrate a valid federal purpose. Insurance companies and attorneys can usually request unredacted police reports.
For example, a Kannapolis truck accident lawyer may request an unredacted accident report to support a client’s legal claim by presenting proof of their eligibility and permissible use.
Steps to Request a Police Accident Report as an Individual
Individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident can request a police accident report in North Carolina. However, only a redacted version will be provided to protect the personal information of others involved. Here are the steps to request a report:
Complete the Crash Report Request Form (TR-67A)
The form must be completed and submitted with your request. Be sure to provide accurate information about the crash, including the date, location, and names of the drivers involved.
Submit the Request by Mail or In Person
Individuals cannot request crash reports online. You can mail the completed TR-67A form along with a $6.50 check or money order (payable to NCDMV) to the address listed on the form. You may have to wait up to 10 business days for processing.
You can also submit the completed form along with payment in person at one of the following locations:
- Raleigh Central Services/License Plate Agency: 4121 New Bern Ave., Raleigh, NC 27616
- Huntersville License Plate Agency: 12101 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road, Huntersville, NC 28078
Include Correct Payment
A payment of $6.50 is required, and checks or money orders must be signed and made payable to NCDMV. Incorrect or incomplete payments may delay processing.
Carefully following these steps helps prevent delays or complications in processing your request.
What Information Do You Need to Request a Police Accident Report?
When requesting a police accident report in North Carolina, providing accurate and detailed information is important to ensure the request is processed smoothly. To complete the request, the following details are typically required:
- Date of the accident
- Location of the accident
- Driver information
- Vehicle details
- Crash Report Number (if available)
This information must be included on the Crash Report Request Form (TR-67A), which must be printed, filled out completely, and submitted with the required payment. Providing as much accurate information as possible will help avoid delays or issues with your request.
Let Our Lawyers Help You Get a Police Accident Report and Build Your Case
At Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers, we know how important it is to have the right information and support after a car accident. Obtaining a police accident report is just one step in building a strong claim, and we’re here to help guide you through the process.
With over $100 million recovered for our clients, our team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Through our A&A Zero Fee Guarantee™, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next steps toward justice and recovery.
