If you were in a car crash in Las Vegas, one of the most important documents you can get is the accident report. This report is prepared either by law enforcement or filed by drivers involved. It contains details about what happened, who was involved, and where the accident occurred. Many people ask if accident reports are public record and how they can request one in Nevada. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the process.
Are Police Accident Reports Public Record in Nevada?
In Nevada, accident reports are treated as public record. However, not every crash will have a police report. Law enforcement must create a report if the crash resulted in more than $750 in property damage, injuries, or fatalities. If you are unsure whether your crash meets these requirements, you can always call law enforcement and ask them to respond.
Which agency handles the report depends on where the crash happened:
- Inside Las Vegas city limits: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD)
- In Henderson: Henderson Police Department
- In North Las Vegas: North Las Vegas Police Department
- On highways outside city limits: Nevada Highway Patrol or Nevada State Police
If law enforcement does not prepare a report, you are required to submit a Form SR-1 to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the crash. This applies even if no one was injured but the damage threshold is met.
Why an Accident Report Matters
Accident reports are more than just paperwork. They provide an official, unbiased record of what happened. Insurance companies often rely on these reports to determine fault and process claims. Without one, you may face obstacles in proving liability and collecting compensation.
An accident report can:
- Show who was at fault
- Document property damage and injuries
- Support your insurance claim
- Serve as evidence if your case goes to court
Having this document in hand strengthens your position when dealing with insurance adjusters or preparing for legal action.
Identifying the Correct Agency
Before you request your accident report, you need to know which police department responded to the crash. This ensures you contact the right agency and avoid delays. If you are unsure, review any paperwork given at the scene or call the LVMPD non-emergency line at (702) 828-3111 to confirm who handled your case.
How to Request a Las Vegas Accident Report
There are several ways to get a copy of your accident report depending on your situation and preference.
Online Request
You can request your report through the Nevada crash portal or the LVMPD website. The fee is about $10 to $12. Reports are usually available within 1 to 2 weeks after the crash but may take up to 10 business days to process online. You will need the report number, the date of the crash, and the last name of an involved party.
In-Person Request
You can visit the Records and Fingerprint Bureau at 400 S. Martin Luther King Blvd., Building C, in Las Vegas. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring a valid photo ID and payment for the fee. This option is often faster than waiting for an online request. Be aware that reports not picked up within 30 days are destroyed.
Request by Mail
Mail-in requests are also accepted, but this method usually takes the longest. You must send a completed request form, a copy of your ID, a self-addressed envelope, and payment by check or money order. The bureau will mail the report back once it has been processed.
Information You Will Need
When making your request, have the following details ready:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names of all parties involved
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
- Incident or report number (if available)
- Your contact information
- Your role in the crash (driver, passenger, or vehicle owner)
Without this information, your request may be delayed.
Acceptable Identification
To get your report, you must provide valid identification. Accepted forms include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
If you are requesting the report on behalf of someone else, you will need additional authorization documents.
What If No Report Was Filed?
If police did not file a report at the scene, you still have a legal duty to submit one yourself under certain conditions. You must file a Form SR-1 with the Nevada DMV within 10 days if:
- There was more than $750 in property damage
- Anyone was injured or killed
- The crash involved a hit-and-run
Failing to file the report can lead to penalties and may affect your ability to pursue a claim later.
Understanding Your Report Once Received
Once you receive your accident report, review it carefully for accuracy. Check that the following information is correct:
- Description of the accident
- Names of all involved parties
- Vehicle details and damages
- Documentation of injuries
- Officer notes and determination of fault
- Witness statements and contact information
If you notice mistakes, contact the issuing agency as soon as possible to request corrections.
What to Do After Receiving Your Accident Report
After you obtain your accident report, use it to protect yourself and your claim. Steps include:
- Sending a copy to your insurance company
- Keeping a duplicate for your records
- Sharing the report with your attorney
Your report can guide you through next steps, whether that means pursuing an insurance settlement or preparing for legal proceedings.
Taking Action After a Las Vegas Accident
Getting your accident report is one step in protecting yourself after a crash. Insurance companies often move quickly to reduce their responsibility, so it is important that you act quickly too. A Las Vegas accident attorney can review your report, help identify errors, and build a strong case on your behalf. If you were hurt in an accident and need guidance, call Friedman Injury Law today at (702) 970-4222 for a free consultation.
