After a car accident in Rhode Island, you’ll need a copy of the official police report to protect your rights and build a strong insurance claim or personal injury case. The accident report serves as a key piece of evidence, documenting the circumstances of the crash and helping establish fault.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum Attorneys at Law, we understand the importance of accident reports after a crash. Our experienced Rhode Island car accident lawyers can help you obtain your report and use it to support your claim. Here are some simple ways to get your Rhode Island accident report.
Requesting Your Accident Report From Rhode Island
After the car accident, the attending officer will give you an accident report number. Keep this number to make it easier to get your report, which is typically available 72 hours later.
The Rhode Island Department of Public Safety maintains a central repository of crash reports. To get a copy of your accident report, visit the Rhode Island State Police website and follow the instructions for what to do if you are involved in an accident. You can request accident reports through a third-party website or via mail.
To get your report online, you’ll need to visit the third-party website and search for your case:
- Select Rhode Island as your state and choose the applicable jurisdiction.
- Enter the requested information to look up your report. This may include your name, the report number, and the date or location of the accident.
- Pay the fee for each copy of the report you request (typically $15 to 20).
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing. You'll receive an email with instructions for accessing your report online.
Accident reports are only available through this online request system for 30 days after the incident. If more than 30 days have passed, you must request it via mail.
To get your report in the mail, you must submit a written request that includes:
- Accident report number, if available
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names of the drivers and any other involved parties
- A check or money order for $15 payable to "State of Rhode Island"
Mail your request to:
Rhode Island State Police: Accident Bureau
311 Danielson Pike
North Scituate, RI 02857
Getting Your Report From Local Police Departments
If your accident occurred within a specific city or town, you might be able to get your report more quickly by contacting the local police department directly. Here's what to do:
Warwick Police Department
In Warwick, you can get your accident report online by submitting an online records request form. Alternatively, you can request the report by calling (401) 468-4285 or mailing a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Warwick Police Records Div.
99 Veterans Memorial Drive
Warwick, RI 02886
Fees will apply to each method, typically $15 per report. In-person requests are available by appointment only.
Providence Police Department
If your accident happened in Providence, you can get your report through the third-party website listed on the Providence Police Department site. Or, call (401) 243-6416 to pick up the report in person at:
Public Safety Complex
325 Washington Street
Providence, RI 02903
The fee is typically $15 per report.
For other cities and towns, contact your local police department's records division for specific instructions on obtaining your accident report.
The Importance of Accident Reports
Your Rhode Island accident report is more than just a formality. This document can be vital to your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Here are a few key reasons to secure your report as soon as possible after an accident:
- Establish fault. The police report includes the responding officer's assessment of how the accident occurred and who was at fault. This can be valuable evidence in proving liability.
- Document injuries. If you or any passengers reported injuries at the scene, this will be noted in the accident report, helping link your injuries to the crash.
- Identify witnesses. The report will include contact information for any witnesses who provided statements. Your car accident lawyer may want to follow up with these witnesses to gather additional evidence.
How a Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum Attorneys at Law, we can help you understand your accident report and use it to build a strong case for compensation. Our knowledgeable Rhode Island car accident lawyers will review your report in detail, identify key facts and evidence, and advise you on the next steps in your claim.
Don't wait to request your Rhode Island accident report after a crash. The sooner you have this essential document, the better equipped you'll be to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. If you need assistance obtaining your report or have questions about your accident claim, our experienced Rhode Island car accident lawyers are here to help.
