When you’re injured in a car crash, one of the single most important pieces of evidence for insurance claims and personal-injury lawsuits is the official traffic collision report. This document—whether it’s the DMV SR-1 you file after certain collisions or the investigating agency’s police/CHP collision report—captures what the officer saw, witness names, vehicle positions, diagram(s), citations, and sometimes preliminary fault findings. This guide explains, step-by-step, how to get the right report(s) in California, how to read them, how to use them effectively in a personal injury claim or lawsuit, and what to do if something in the report is wrong.

Short version: file or obtain the right reports quickly, preserve supporting evidence, and use the report to lock in the official record; if things are complicated, get an experienced California personal injury attorney to review and act. For help from an experienced Los Angeles personal injury firm, see VictimsLawyer (Steven M. Sweat) for more resources and a free consultation. (Steven M. Sweat)

What are the different collision reports you may encounter?
Which report matters for a personal injury claim?
When and how to file the DMV SR-1 (Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California). (dmv.ca.gov)
How to obtain a police/CHP collision report (online, in person, or by mail). (chp.ca.gov)
Who is entitled to get a copy? (parties of interest, insurers, attorneys)
Typical timelines and costs (what to expect)
How to read and extract value from a collision report (key sections and red flags)
Using collision reports in negotiations, claims, and litigation (practical strategies)
Correcting errors and supplementing the record (amendments, addenda, rebuttals)
Checklist: what to do immediately after a crash to protect the report and claim
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Final checklist + call to action (including links to VictimsLawyer resources). (Steven M. Sweat)

1) What are the different collision reports you may encounter?

In California you will typically see two separate (but related) documents after a crash:

The DMV SR-1 (Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California) — This is a state form (SR-1) that drivers must submit to the DMV when certain thresholds are met (injury, death, or property damage over the DMV threshold). It’s primarily a financial responsibility/administrative report for the DMV. (dmv.ca.gov)
The investigating agency’s collision or police report — This is the narrative and investigative report prepared by the law-enforcement officer who responds to the scene (city police, sheriff, or California Highway Patrol). The CHP calls its report a “collision report” (CHP 555/CHP 190 procedures for obtaining copies); local police agencies (e.g., LAPD) have their own collision report forms and request procedures. (chp.ca.gov)

Both are useful: the SR-1 ensures the DMV has a record for driving history/financial responsibility; the agency collision report is the document insurance adjusters and lawyers most rely on.

2) Which report matters most for a personal injury claim?

From a practical standpoint:

The agency collision/police report is usually the most useful evidence for liability and claim handling because it contains the officer’s diagram, witness names and statements, damage descriptions, any citations issued, and the investigating officer’s narrative and observations. Adjusters and plaintiff attorneys quote from it frequently. (chp.ca.gov)
The DMV SR-1 is important for administrative and insurance-reporting reasons (and sometimes evidentiary background), but it is less detailed than the police/CHP report and is not a substitute for the investigating agency’s crash/investigation report. (dmv.ca.gov)

So, if you can only get one document, get the investigating agency’s report. But in many cases you’ll want both.

3) When and how to file the DMV SR-1 (Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California)

When you must file SR-1

California law requires submission of an SR-1 to the DMV within 10 days when any of these are true: someone was injured or killed, or property damage exceeded the state threshold (the DMV posts the current threshold and instructions). This duty is on the driver involved in the accident (or the driver’s agent). Failing to file when required can expose a driver to penalties and complicate insurance. (dmv.ca.gov)

How to file

Online: The California DMV provides guidance and links for SR-1 filing through its website and virtual office. The SR-1 can be filled by the driver, an insurance agent, or a legal representative. (dmv.ca.gov)
By mail / in person: If needed, you can obtain the SR-1 PDF from the DMV site, print it, fill it out, and mail or deliver it to the appropriate DMV office (follow instructions on the DMV SR-1 page). (dmv.ca.gov)

Practical tips

File the SR-1 even if you are unsure whether the damage will exceed the dollar threshold — there’s no practical downside to filing and it avoids penalties. (Morris & Garritano Insurance)
Keep a copy of the submitted SR-1 and any filing confirmations in your claim file.

4) How to obtain the police or CHP collision report

A. If the responding agency was the CHP

The CHP offers multiple ways to get crash reports:

CHP Online Crash Portal: The CHP now operates an online crash portal (crashes.chp.ca.gov). In many CHP-handled crashes the officer will give involved parties a small “crash card” with a QR code; scanning that code or registering at the portal allows involved parties (proper “parties of interest”) to retrieve a free digital copy once the report is available. Reports typically become available within several business days but timelines vary depending on investigation complexity. The CHP’s website contains instructions and the CHP 190 request form for parties who prefer in-person or mail requests. (chp.ca.gov)
CHP 190 form / in-person / mail: If you prefer, you can submit a CHP 190 request form to a CHP area office (in person or by mail) and pay any applicable fees. The CHP explains the Party-of-Interest rules and required identification on its site. (chp.ca.gov)

B. If the responding agency was city police or county sheriff (for example, LAPD)

City police online portals: Many city police departments offer online report requests (enter name and date, or report number). For example, the Los Angeles Police Department has a procedure to request traffic collision reports by mail (form + $20 fee) or through their online portals. Always check the specific agency’s records page. (LAPD Online)
In person / mail: You can usually request a copy by visiting the records division, submitting the form, and providing ID and payment. Each agency will detail the exact steps and fees on its records page.

C. Who can request a CHP/police report?

“Parties of interest” (drivers, owners, passengers, parents/legal guardians of minors, legal representatives, insurers with a valid claim, etc.) can request reports. Agencies require proof of identity and may require a claim/policy number or representation documentation for third-party requests. The agencies publish lists of who qualifies and what documentation is required. (chp.ca.gov)

5) Who is entitled to get a copy? (and how attorneys typically obtain them)

Eligible requesters typically include:

Drivers and passengers involved in the collision
Owners of the vehicles involved
The parents or legal guardians of injured minors
Legal representatives (attorneys) with written authorization
Insurers or their authorized representatives (with a claim/policy number)

Attorneys almost always obtain collision reports on behalf of clients. To streamline this:

The client signs a short authorization or retention letter authorizing the attorney to obtain the report.
The attorney uses the agency’s online portal (if available), the CHP portal, or submits the relevant request form with the client’s ID copy attached.

Tip: if the agency offers digital access (CHP portal or local police online portal), register and download the report. Digital reports are quick to copy into your claim file and are easy to share with adjusters and experts. (crashes.chp.ca.gov)

6) Typical timelines and costs (what to expect)

CHP online portal: Reports are often posted to the portal within roughly 1–8 business days (depending on complexity). The CHP portal is free for parties of interest who can verify identity using the crash card QR code or login. (crashes.chp.ca.gov)
CHP mailed/in-person requests: Fees and wait times vary by CHP area. Some CHP offices may charge a copying fee for paper requests—check the CHP request page for current instructions. (chp.ca.gov)
City police reports: Costs vary by agency (commonly a small copying fee — for example, LAPD’s mail request process references a $20 fee). Response times vary—many agencies provide online searchable portals where reports can be retrieved once processed. (LAPD Online)
SR-1 to DMV: Filing SR-1 is the driver’s responsibility and is done within 10 days. There is generally no fee for filing the SR-1 itself, but if you use an agent or attorney they may charge for assistance. (dmv.ca.gov)

7) How to read and extract value from a collision report — what to look for

Collision reports are dense. Here’s how to mine them efficiently.

Key sections to inspect

Administrative header: report number, date/time/location, responding agency and officer name/badge number. Use the report number when ordering certified copies or referencing the file.
Narrative: the officer’s description of what happened. This often includes the officer’s initial determination of contributing factors and any observed traffic violations. The narrative is heavily relied upon by adjusters and courts—note exact language.
Diagram: shows orientation of vehicles, points of impact, and road markings; essential when reconstructing the collision.
Witnesses: names, contact details, and short statements provided. Witnesses listed here are prime candidates for follow-up interviews.
Citations/violations: any citations issued (e.g., failure to yield, unsafe lane change, speeding). Citations strengthen liability arguments.
Photos and attachments: photos taken by the officer or attached multimedia; sometimes accessible via the portal or records division request.
Injury and vehicle damage sections: records which occupants complained of injuries and a damage estimate—important for both liability and damages.
Supplemental reports / follow-ups: some agencies add supplements if new information appears later.

Red flags and lines to challenge

Inaccurate vehicle positions in the diagram
Missing or incorrectly spelled witness names
Statements attributed to a witness that contradict recorded witness interviews or video
Unrecorded citations that should have been issued
Omitted witness contact info or omitted injuries that later show up in medical records

When you find issues, document them and consider how to correct the record (see Section 9).

8) Using collision reports in negotiations, claims, and litigation

Collision reports are a tool — not the whole case. Here’s how plaintiff attorneys (and smart claimants) use them.

A. Early claim handling / demand letters

Attach the collision report (or cite report number) in early communications with the insurer. Use the officer’s diagram and citation(s) to build liability narratives.
If the report cites the other driver for a violation, demand letters call that out prominently (quote the exact language). Insurers weigh citations heavily when valuing claims.

B. Evidence for expert work

Use the report diagram and photos as a base for retaining accident reconstruction experts, biomechanical experts, and medical experts. The report gives the initial scene dimensions and contact points that make expert reconstruction efficient.

C. Discovery in litigation

The collision report and all supplements are discoverable. If the agency prepared photos, videos, CAD data, or evidence logs, request those too. Subpoenas to the agency may be necessary for full production of multimedia.
Use the report to develop targeted interrogatories and deposition questions (e.g., ask witnesses whether the officer accurately recorded their statement).

D. Impeachment and cross-checks

If the defense relies on a version that contradicts the report, use the original report to impeach inconsistent testimony. Conversely, if the report is unfavorable, look for independent evidence (surveillance, cell records, scene photos, expert analysis) to rebut the officer’s initial impressions.

9) Correcting errors and supplementing the record

Mistakes happen. There are three common remedies:

1. Agency supplement or correction

Contact the records division of the law-enforcement agency. Explain the inaccuracy and request a supplement or correction. Agencies will append a supplemental report or memorandum describing changes or clarifications. Be specific: cite page/field and provide supporting documents (photos, witness statements, medical records) if available.

2. Add your own statement to your file

Submit a signed, dated statement to the agency and ask that it be added to the case file as a written statement from an involved party. This does not change the officer’s narrative but becomes part of the file for later discovery.

3. Use discovery and experts

If the agency declines to change a material error, the corrections can be made through discovery (forcing the production of underlying materials) and by using experts who can demonstrate inconsistencies (e.g., physics analysis showing the diagram is impossible given the damage patterns).

Important: Don’t assume the officer will update the report automatically; follow up in writing and document all communications. Agencies have different procedures for corrections—check the agency’s records page for exact steps. (chp.ca.gov)

10) Checklist: what to do immediately after a crash to protect the report and your claim

At the scene:
- Call 911 and request law enforcement for any injury or significant damage. The officer’s presence leads to an official report.
- Get the responding officer’s name, badge/ID number, and report number (if available).
- Collect names and contact information for witnesses and other drivers.
- Take multiple photos and video of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, license plates, road signage, and the surroundings. Take close up and wide shots.
Shortly after the crash:
- If required, file SR-1 with the DMV within 10 days (if injury, death, or property damage threshold is met). (dmv.ca.gov)
- If the crash was handled by CHP, keep the crash card and QR code — it will let you get the digital report quickly. (KESQ)
Preserve medical records:
- Seek medical care immediately for injuries and keep copies of all records, bills, work-loss documentation, and prescriptions.
Contact your insurer and preserve evidence:
- Notify your insurer as required but be cautious: avoid detailed recorded statements without counsel.
Consult an attorney:
- Consider consulting a personal injury attorney early—especially if injuries are significant or liability is disputed. An attorney can obtain reports, independent evidence, and coordinate experts. For local expertise, visit VictimsLawyer for resources and consultations. (Steven M. Sweat)

11) Common mistakes claimants make (and how to avoid them)

Not getting an official report: If there’s any injury or significant damage, always involve law enforcement. No police/CHP report makes claims much harder.
Waiting too long to request the agency report: Many agencies lock down evidence or lose witness information over time. Use the CHP portal or your agency’s online system promptly. (crashes.chp.ca.gov)
Assuming the report is perfect: Always read it carefully for errors. If there are mistakes, correct them early (see Section 9).
Giving recorded statements without counsel: Recorded statements can be used to minimize your claim; consult counsel before giving detailed recorded statements if injuries or liability are contested.
Failing to preserve scene photos and witness contacts: These are often the difference between settlement and a lowball offer.

12) Final checklist + sample timeline and resources

Quick timeline (typical)

Day 0 (crash): Police respond, investigation begins, officer issues crash card (CHP) or report number. Take photos, get witness info.
Day 0–10: File SR-1 with DMV if required (within 10 days). (dmv.ca.gov)
Day 1–8 (CHP): CHP collision reports may become available on the online portal in roughly 1–8 business days. Use the crash card QR or register at crashes.chp.ca.gov. (crashes.chp.ca.gov)
Day 3–14: Police files are often processed and become available via the agency portal or records division. If not, submit an official request form and required fees. (LAPD Online)

Resources & links

DMV SR-1 and accident reporting instructions (how/when to file). (dmv.ca.gov)
CHP Request a Crash Report / Online Crash Portal (crashes.chp.ca.gov) — use the QR crash card or portal to download free digital reports for parties of interest. (chp.ca.gov)
LAPD Traffic Collision Request procedure (example of a city police process). (LAPD Online)
VictimsLawyer — resources for personal injury victims and contact information for legal help in Los Angeles and California. (Steven M. Sweat)

Sample letter template: requesting a collision report (for attorneys or claimants)

[Use agency letterhead or your contact information]
[Date]
Records Division
[Agency name & address]
Re: Request for Collision Report — [Report number if known] / [Date and location of crash]
To Whom It May Concern:
Please produce a copy of the collision report, any attachments, photos, CAD data, and any supplemental reports for the collision that occurred on [date] at [location], involving vehicle [make/model/license]. I am a party of interest / authorized representative. Attached: photocopy of my driver’s license and signed authorization (if requesting on behalf of client). Please advise the fee and timeline for production.
Thank you,
[Name, contact info]

How a personal injury attorney uses collision reports (practical case example)

Early case assessment — attorney obtains the police/CHP report immediately and uses the officer’s narrative and diagram to determine whether liability is likely and to form early settlement demands.
Preservation and investigation — attorney issues record preservation letters (spoliation letters) to the agency and requests underlying materials (photos, dashcam footage, body-cam, traffic camera footage) via subpoena if necessary.
Expert retention — based on the police diagram and damage descriptions, attorney retains an accident reconstructionist to produce a report showing impact vectors, speeds, and contact points.
Negotiation — the combination of the collision report, medical bills, and expert analysis frames the settlement demand. If the report includes a citation to the at-fault driver, that citation is highlighted in settlement demand letters.
Litigation — if the case files suit, the collision report is a critical discovery document and is used at depositions and at trial to impeach or corroborate testimony.

If you want a professional review of your collision report and help converting it into an effective demand or litigation strategy, contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury firm — see VictimsLawyer for attorney resources and to schedule a consultation. (Steven M. Sweat)

Closing: practical next steps and a final checklist

If you (or your client) were recently involved in a crash in California, do the following now:

Keep the crash card (if CHP) and use the QR code to register on the CHP Online Crash Portal. (crashes.chp.ca.gov)
If you were required to file SR-1, file it with the DMV within 10 days. (dmv.ca.gov)
Request the investigating agency’s report immediately (online is fastest; mail/in-person if necessary). (chp.ca.gov)
Preserve medical records, photos, and witness contact info.
Consider a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney — for Los Angeles resources and a free consultation, VictimsLawyer (Steven M. Sweat) provides client support and attorney representation. (Steven M. Sweat)

Need help turning your collision report into a demand or lawsuit?

If you’d like help interpreting a collision report, checking it for errors, or turning it into a powerful demand package, an experienced California personal injury attorney can help—especially when timelines, evidence preservation, and expert work matter. For Los Angeles representation and resources, visit VictimsLawyer (Steven M. Sweat) or call their office for a free consultation. (Steven M. Sweat)

Author’s note

This post summarizes commonly accepted procedures and practices and points to official state and local resources for the most current forms and instructions. The DMV’s SR-1 page explains filing requirements and how to obtain the SR-1 form; the CHP site describes requesting collision reports and the new online crash portal for digital copies; local police departments publish their own records request procedures and fees. Always confirm the specific agency’s instructions when requesting a report. (dmv.ca.gov)

If you want, I can:

Draft a client-facing checklist or printable one-page “What to do after a crash” that you can post to your website.
Convert this guide into a longform SEO blog with headings and meta description optimized for “Los Angeles car accident report” and include internal links to specific VictimsLawyer pages. (I can draft that now — tell me which VictimsLawyer pages you prefer linked prominently and I’ll insert the links.) (Steven M. Sweat)

Would you like a downloadable one-page checklist or a full SEO-optimized blog draft (I can generate the copy and include suggested on-page links to VictimsLawyer pages)?

How to Obtain and Use a Traffic Collision Report for a Personal Injury Car Accident Case in California

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