Are Car Accident Reports Public Record in Florida?
When a car accident occurs in Florida, one of the first questions many people have is: “Are car accident reports public record in Florida?” The short answer is yes — but with important restrictions. Florida law allows certain parties to access crash reports, while others must wait until the report becomes part of the public record.
At Perkins Law Offices in Miami, our attorneys regularly help clients understand how to obtain car accident reports and how these documents can impact a personal injury claim. Whether you were injured in a Miami car crash or need to determine liability after an accident, knowing your rights under Florida’s public records law is essential.
Understanding Florida’s Public Record Law
Florida’s Public Records Law, often called the “Sunshine Law,” is one of the most transparent in the nation. It provides access to a wide range of government records, including those related to motor vehicle accidents. However, Florida Statute §316.066 outlines specific rules about who can access a car accident report and when.
Who Can Immediately Access an Accident Report?
For the first 60 days after a crash, access to a car accident report is restricted. During this time, the report can only be obtained by:
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Individuals involved in the crash
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Their legal representatives
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Insurance companies representing any party in the accident
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Law enforcement agencies
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Prosecutors and governmental entities
After the 60-day confidentiality period, the car accident report becomes a public record, and anyone can request a copy through the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
How to Obtain a Car Accident Report in Florida
If you were involved in a car crash in Miami or anywhere in Florida, obtaining your accident report is often one of the first steps in pursuing compensation.
1. Online Through FLHSMV
You can obtain your Florida accident report online through the FLHSMV Crash Portal. Each report typically costs $10, plus a small convenience fee.
2. In Person
Reports can also be requested in person at your local police department, sheriff’s office, or Florida Highway Patrol station. Bring valid identification and details about the crash, including the date, time, and location.
3. Through Your Attorney
When you hire a Miami car accident lawyer at Perkins Law Offices, we handle all of this for you. Our legal team can request the official Florida police accident report, interpret its findings, and use it as critical evidence to support your injury claim or lawsuit.
Why Car Accident Reports Matter in Personal Injury Cases
An official Florida car crash report contains crucial details that may determine fault and liability, including:
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Date, time, and exact location of the crash
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Names and contact information of all parties involved
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Witness statements
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Diagram of the accident scene
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The investigating officer’s preliminary findings
While an accident report alone does not establish legal fault, it often plays a pivotal role in insurance negotiations and personal injury litigation. For example, a Florida Highway Patrol accident report showing one driver’s traffic violation can be used as evidence of negligence.
Are Car Accident Reports Truly Public in Florida?
Technically, yes — but only after the 60-day exemption period expires. Even then, personal information such as driver’s license numbers, phone numbers, and insurance policy details may be redacted to protect privacy.
This means that while anyone can access the report after the waiting period, not all details are available for public viewing. If you are trying to gather information about an accident for legal reasons, it’s best to consult with a personal injury attorney in Miami who can lawfully obtain the full report and review it on your behalf.
Common Misconceptions About Florida Accident Reports
Many people assume that car accident reports are instantly public, but that’s not true. Here are a few misconceptions we often clarify for clients:
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Myth: Anyone can see a car crash report immediately.
Reality: Only authorized parties can access it within the first 60 days. -
Myth: Accident reports always determine fault.
Reality: They offer evidence but don’t legally assign liability — that’s up to insurance companies or the courts. -
Myth: You don’t need a lawyer to read a report.
Reality: Reports can be complex, and understanding what’s not written can be just as important as what is.
The Role of an Attorney in Obtaining and Using Accident Reports
At Perkins Law Offices, our attorneys frequently assist clients who are navigating the legal and procedural hurdles following a car accident. An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can:
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Obtain the Florida car accident report quickly and efficiently
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Review it for inconsistencies or errors
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Identify signs of negligence
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Collect supporting evidence, such as video footage or witness statements
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File insurance claims or lawsuits based on the findings
Having a lawyer interpret your accident report can make the difference between a denied claim and a successful settlement.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident in Florida?
In most cases, Florida law gives injured victims two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
That’s why obtaining your Florida accident report as soon as possible — and seeking legal guidance early — is so important.
Expert Insight: Why Reports Are Key to Proving Negligence
According to Attorney Alexander J. Perkins, founder of Perkins Law Offices:
“In every motor vehicle case, the accident report is one of the first documents we analyze. It tells the story of the crash from an objective point of view and often provides clues about who may be legally responsible. We use that information to build strong claims and hold negligent drivers accountable.”
This careful review process allows the firm to uncover details that might otherwise go unnoticed — such as road conditions, mechanical issues, or patterns of driver behavior — which can strengthen a client’s case.
Are car accident reports public record in Florida?
FAQs About Car Accident Reports in Florida
1. How long does it take for a Florida car accident report to be available?
Usually, it takes 3 to 10 business days for law enforcement to upload the report to the system.
2. Are Florida car accident reports public after 60 days?
Yes. After the 60-day confidential period, the report becomes a public record accessible to anyone.
3. Can a lawyer get my accident report faster?
Yes. Attorneys representing clients involved in a crash can immediately access the report under Florida law.
4. Where can I find my car accident report in Miami?
You can request it from the Miami Police Department, Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office, or through the FLHSMV Crash Portal.
5. Why should I contact a lawyer after a car accident?
A Miami car accident lawyer can help you obtain reports, interpret them accurately, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact Perkins Law Offices in Miami
If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are wondering “Are car accident reports public record in Florida?” — the answer depends on your circumstances.
At Perkins Law Offices, we help clients across Miami and South Florida navigate every step of the process — from obtaining accident reports to filing insurance claims or lawsuits. Our firm is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call Perkins Law Offices today at (305) 741-5297 or visit www.perkinslawoffices.com to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Miami car accident attorney.
