Information on Pennsylvania Traffic Crash Reports

March 24, 2025 | Car Accidents

Information on Pennsylvania Traffic Crash Reports

To get a Pennsylvania traffic crash report, you need to know the steps. It’s important for anyone in a motor vehicle accident. These reports give key details about the incident. They include statements from those involved, officer assessments, and possible contributing factors. Knowing the process can save you time and effort. You may need the report for an insurance claim, legal matters, or your personal records.

How to Obtain a Pennsylvania Traffic Crash Report

The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and local police keep traffic crash reports in Pennsylvania. Individuals involved in a crash, their legal representatives, and insurance companies may request a copy of the report.

To obtain a crash report, follow these steps:

  • Determine the reporting agency: Find out if the accident was handled by the Pennsylvania State Police or a local law enforcement agency.
  • Submit a request: You can request reports online using the Pennsylvania State Police Crash Report System. Alternatively, you can go to your local police department in person.
  • Provide required information: The request form usually needs details like the accident date, location, names of those involved, and the report number if you have it.
  • Pay the applicable fee: Pennsylvania law requires a fee for obtaining a copy of the report, which varies by agency.
  • Receive the report: Reports are usually available within 15 days of the accident, but processing times may vary.

A copy of the crash report keeps all important details about the accident documented and easy to access when needed.

Why Are Pennsylvania Traffic Crash Reports Important?

Traffic crash reports serve as crucial evidence in various scenarios, including:

  • Insurance claims: Insurers use the report to assess fault and process claims.
  • Legal proceedings: Attorneys rely on crash reports to build personal injury or property damage cases.
  • Accident analysis: Crash reports help in understanding accident trends and road safety measures.

These reports are key documents. They can affect insurance settlements and legal cases.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Negligence and Liability Laws

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if a party is more than 50% at fault for an accident, they cannot recover damages. Otherwise, their percentage of fault reduces their compensation. However, if the party is more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover at all. 

Pennsylvania has a no-fault insurance system. This means people must use their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical costs, no matter who caused the accident. However, serious injury cases may allow victims to step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After a Pennsylvania Car Accident?

In Pennsylvania, you have two years to file personal injury and wrongful death claims from traffic accidents. This means victims must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the crash to seek compensation. Failing to meet this deadline may result in losing the right to pursue legal action.

Ensuring Proper Documentation for Your Crash Report

To avoid delays or issues with your crash report request:

  • Verify all accident details before submitting the request.
  • Keep copies of receipts and confirmation emails related to your request.

Follow up with the police department or PSP if processing times exceed expected periods.

Getting Additional Information on Pennsylvania Traffic Crash Reports

Obtaining a Pennsylvania traffic crash report is a crucial step after an accident. These reports offer key details for insurance claims, legal actions, and accident analysis. If you need help with a crash report, talk to an experienced personal injury attorney. They can protect your rights and make the claims process easier.

Learn how to obtain a Pennsylvania traffic crash report, why it’s important, and what steps are involved. Ensure proper documentation for insurance claims and legal cases.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, please contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today:

Harrisburg Law Office
945 East Park Drive, Suite 103 Harrisburg, PA 17111
(717) 231-1640

York Law Office
2550 Kingston Road, Suite 210A York, PA 17401
(717) 995-8998

Wyomissing Law Office
833 N. Park Road, Suite 103, Room A Wyomissing, PA 19610
(717) 388-2325

Chambersburg Law Office
79 St. Paul Drive, Suite 1 Chambersburg, PA 17201
(717) 388-2378

Carlisle Law Office
354 Alexander Springs Road Carlisle, PA 17015
(717) 995-8732

Carbondale Law Office
30 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 101 Carbondale, PA 18407
(717) 995-8810

Lancaster Law Office
2173 Embassy Drive, Ste 123, Lancaster PA 17603
(717) 616-2954

Lebanon Law Office
937 Willow Street, Suite D Lebanon, PA 17042-1140
(717) 995-8963