Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers | March 4, 2025 | Car Accidents
Whenever you are in a car accident in Port St. Lucie, Florida, it is important to know how to get a Florida Highway Patrol Accident Report. Having an official accident report from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is an essential piece of evidence for documenting the incident.
These reports contain details about the crash and are useful when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. Having a step-by-step guide on how you get a Florida highway patrol accident report can make the recovery process easier after a car crash in Port St. Lucie, FL.
Why You Need an FHP Crash Report
A Florida Highway Patrol accident report provides key details about the accident, such as:
- The date, time, and location
- Names and contact information of everyone involved
- Statements from witnesses and law enforcement
- A summary of injuries and damage
- Any citations or violations issued
This report serves as an official record and can be critical in proving fault in a car accident claim.
Does the Florida Highway Patrol Handle All Accident Reports?
Florida Highway Patrol accident reports are not limited to highway accidents. The FHP investigates crashes on Florida highways, as well as in unincorporated areas. In some regions, the county’s sheriff’s office handles accident investigations.
If you are involved in a car accident in Florida, you should report it to the local police department, an FHP station, or the sheriff’s office. Regardless of which agency handles the investigation, all crash reports are accessible through the Florida Crash Portal.
When Should I File an Accident Report?
State law requires calling law enforcement for accidents involving property damage over $500, physical injury, or death. Given the low threshold for property damage, it is best to report all incidents. If you do choose to self-report, FHP provides an option for mail and email.
Ways to Request a FHP Crash Report
There are several ways to request a FHP Crash Report. They include:
Online Request Through the Florida Crash Portal
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) allows individuals to request accident reports online.
- Visit the Florida Crash Portal.
- Provide details such as the crash date, location, and report number (if available).
- Pay the required fee (typically $10 per report plus a $2 convenience fee).
- Download the report in PDF format.
Once you download the report, you can save it and print it for your records.
In-Person Request at an FHP Station
You can also visit a Florida Highway Patrol Troop Station in person to request a crash report. Reports are generally available within 10 days of the accident. The FHP accepts payment in cash, check, or credit card. Do not forget to bring a valid ID and details about the crash.
Request by Mail
To get a report by mail, send a written request to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Include relevant accident details (date, location, and report number if available), along with a check or money order for fees.
Through Your Insurance Company or Attorney
If you are working with a personal injury lawyer, they can get the crash report. Insurance companies often have access to these reports as well and may provide a copy upon request.
Who Can Access a Florida Highway Patrol Accident Report?
Under Florida law, crash reports are confidential for 60 days after the accident. During this period, access is limited to:
- Those directly involved in the accident;
- Legal representatives of involved parties;
- Insurance companies handling claims;
- Law enforcement agencies, and
- Certain media personnel
After the 60-day confidentiality period, reports become public records and are available to anyone.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim in Florida
If you are considering legal action following an accident, it is important to be aware of Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. In Florida, individuals generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you may not be eligible for compensation.
So, How Do You Get a Florida Highway Patrol Accident Report?
Getting your Florida Highway Patrol accident report is a straightforward process. You can do it online, in person, by mail, or through legal assistance. If you suffer an accident in Port St. Lucie, having this report can be vital for insurance claims and lawsuits.
Contact Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, please contact the Stuart, Port St. Lucie, or Palm Beach Gardens personal injury law firm of Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Martin County, St. Lucie County, Palm Beach County, and its surrounding areas in Florida:
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Stuart
73 SW Flagler Ave
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 444-7000
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Port St. Lucie
1100 SW St. Lucie West Blvd. Ste 202
Port St Lucie, FL 34986
(772) 247-3374
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Palm Beach Gardens
300 Avenue of the Champions Ste 220
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
(561) 944-4000
