Are Texas Police Officers Required to Write Up an Accident Report for All Car Crashes?

Although police officers in Dallas respond to a majority of the car accidents that are called in, there are times when they won’t come out and write up a report, usually when the damage is minimal.
While most individuals assume that after a car accident has occurred, an officer will come out, inspect the scene, write up a report, and ticket anyone who was in violation of the law, however, this isn’t always the case. In fact, there are times that do not warrant an officer to be dispatched to an accident scene which can put those involved at a disadvantage. Nevertheless, officers are generally sent out to investigate a car accident when there is damage that is valued at $1,000 or more or when the crash has resulted in an injury or death [Source: Texas Department of Transportation].
Officers who are dispatched to the scene of an accident will fill out a crash report (CR-3) which is something victims need to obtain a copy of so they have it for their records and can ensure it contains all the right information. Aside from those involved in the wreck, there are others who can obtain a copy of the crash report given they pay the corresponding fee. Those who are permitted to retain a copy of an accident report include:
- An authorized representative of those who were involved in the car accident.
- An employer, parent or legal guardian of a motorist who was involved in the accident.
- The owner of a vehicle or other property that was damaged in the accident.
- A person who is financially responsible for a vehicle involved in the wreck.
- The insurance company of any policyholder whose vehicle was involved in the incident.
- A person bound by a contract to provide claims or underwriting to a person described in numbers 4,5,6.
- A radio or television station that is licensed by the Federal Communications Commission.
- A newspaper that is a “free newspaper of general circulation or qualified under Section 2051.044, Government Code, to publish legal notices; published at least once a week; and available and of interest to the general public in connection with the dissemination of news.”
- Any person who is legally permitted to sue because of death resulting from the accident. This could be the surviving spouse, children, or other relatives of someone who was killed in the crash.
- Any agency of the United States, Texas, or the local government of Texas.
What if there is an error on the police report?

If the responding officer made a mistake on the crash report and isn’t willing to fix the error, you may need to bring on a TX car crash lawyer who can help you get the issue resolved.
Unfortunately, there are times when the responding officer will make a mistake or even omit certain details which could impact the claim you file with your insurance company. When this happens, it is important that you contact the department to have them correct their error. Now, you might find that the officer doesn’t recall the details you are claiming he/she omitted, or they may say there is no evidence that supports the changes you are asking them to make. If this is the case, then you will want to contact a Dallas, TX car accident attorney right away.
Accidents, especially those that are severe and resulted in injury or death, are serious matters and it is important that all the details are accurate. Otherwise, you risk being held accountable for something you didn’t do or not receiving the compensation you are entitled to. Therefore, if the police officer who was responsible for writing up your car collision report made a mistake or you are having difficulty recovering the compensation you now need in order to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more, contact the Law Offices of Robert Gregg today. Attorney Robert Gregg is prepared to handle any type of case brought his way and will work endlessly until he obtains an outcome that is in your favor.
To schedule an initial consultation with this firm, simply call 214-559-3444.
You can reach the Law Office of Robert Gregg at:
2024 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75201
Regular Business Hours-
After Hours- 214-559-3592
Website: www.gregglawdallas.com