If you have been involved in a car accident in Richmond, obtaining a copy of the accident report is one of the most important steps you can take. Whether you are seeking compensation, filing an insurance claim, or simply trying to understand what happened, the accident report serves as a critical piece of evidence.
It provides an official record of the incident—including the location, time, involved parties, and the investigating officer’s observations.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can feel. Our attorneys, Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford, have decades of combined experience advocating for injured victims across Richmond and throughout Virginia. We have helped clients secure millions of dollars in compensation by building strong, fact-based cases—many of which begin with a simple step: obtaining the official crash report.
According to one recent client,
“Connor took care of everything. He helped me get the accident report, reviewed it in detail, and used it to push back hard against the insurance company. I never felt alone in the process.”
Understand the Process
In Richmond, obtaining an accident report online is possible through city and state agencies; however, it can be confusing if you are unsure of where to start. That is where we come in. As experienced Richmond car accident lawyers, we regularly assist clients in obtaining, reviewing, and interpreting these reports. We also explain what is included in a Virginia police crash report, how long it typically takes to get one, and what to do if it is delayed.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to get your Virginia accident report online, who is eligible to request it, and how our attorneys can assist when problems arise. Whether you were involved in a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, this information is designed to help you make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we do more than offer legal representation—we provide trusted, local guidance backed by proven results. Our attorneys are rooted in the Richmond community, and we believe every client deserves clear answers, honest communication, and a legal team that will fight to protect their future.
Let us begin by identifying exactly where to get your crash report in Richmond and which agency has your records.
Where to Get an Accident Report in Richmond, VA
In Virginia, accident reports are handled by different agencies depending on where the crash occurred and which law enforcement department responded. For incidents within the City of Richmond, your first point of contact is the Richmond Police Department. For accidents that occurred on interstates, highways, or outside city limits, the Virginia State Police or the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may handle your report.
Understanding the correct agency to contact will help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth process. Below is a breakdown of where to go based on your situation.
If the Accident Happened in Richmond City Limits
You can request a Richmond police accident report directly from the Records Unit of the Richmond Police Department.
Request options include:
- Online: Visit rva.gov
- In person: Richmond Police Department, 200 W Grace St, Richmond, VA 23220
- By mail: Submit a written request to the same address with the required information.
Tip: You will need to provide specific information such as the date of the accident, the names of individuals involved, and the incident report number, if available.
If the State Police investigated the Accident
For accidents that occurred on state highways or interstates, or those investigated by the Virginia State Police, reports are stored with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Request your Virginia crash report through:
- Online (preferred): DMV Crash Report Request Form
- Mail-in Option: Complete DMV Form CRD-93 and send it with payment to the DMV headquarters
Key Details to Confirm Before Requesting:
- Jurisdiction (city police vs. state police)
- Exact location of the accident
- Whether an accident report was filed
- Name(s) of involved parties
As seasoned Richmond personal injury attorneys, we often assist clients with locating and obtaining their accident reports. If you are unsure which department to contact, our team can help investigate and secure the correct documentation on your behalf. Having this report early can make a significant difference when pursuing an injury claim or communicating with insurance providers.
Step-by-Step: How to Request Your Accident Report Online in Virginia
If you are ready to request your Virginia crash report online, following the correct process will save you time and frustration. Whether the report is managed by the Richmond Police Department or the Virginia DMV, both offer digital pathways for obtaining your documentation. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Requesting a Richmond Police Accident Report Online
If the Richmond Police Department investigated your accident, you can request a copy through the city’s online portal.
Steps:
- Go to rva.gov
- Look for the link to submit an accident report request
- Provide the following details:
- Full name
- Date and location of the accident
- Case or incident number (if available)
- Driver’s license number or vehicle plate (optional but helpful)
- Pay any applicable fee (typically $8–$10)
- Submit your request and wait for the confirmation email or digital file
Requesting a Virginia DMV Accident Report Online
If the Virginia State Police investigated your crash, or if your report has been transferred to the DMV database, follow these instructions:
Steps:
- Visit the Virginia DMV Crash Report Portal
- Download and complete Form CRD 93 – Information Request.
- Choose “Crash Report” as the type of record being requested.
- Provide all required information, including:
- Date of the accident
- Names of drivers or vehicle owners involved
- Accident location
- Relationship to the accident (driver, attorney, insurance, etc.)
- Include a check or money order for the $8 report fee
- Mail the completed form to:
- Virginia DMV, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269
How Long Does It Take?
- Richmond Police Department: 7–10 business days, depending on availability
- Virginia DMV: Allow 7–15 business days from the date the request is received
Secure and Accurate Information Matters
Ensure that all details in the report match exactly—misspellings, incorrect dates, or missing case numbers can delay your request. If you are missing any of the required details, our legal team can assist by contacting the relevant agency on your behalf and ensuring no time is wasted.
As experienced Richmond car accident lawyers, we frequently handle these requests and know how to move them forward efficiently. If you feel overwhelmed or encounter an issue, we are here to help guide you and advocate on your behalf.
Who Can Legally Access an Accident Report in Virginia?
Not everyone can request or receive a copy of a crash report in Virginia. Access is regulated under Virginia Code § 46.2-379, which outlines who is legally entitled to receive this information. This protects the privacy of those involved while ensuring that key parties can obtain the documentation necessary for legal or insurance purposes.
Understanding whether you qualify to request a Virginia police crash report is critical before you begin the process.
Eligible Individuals Who Can Request a Crash Report
According to Virginia law, the following individuals or entities are permitted to request a crash report:
- Drivers involved in the accident
- Passengers listed in the report
- Vehicle owners
- Authorized legal representatives, such as your Richmond accident lawyer
- Insurance companies representing anyone involved
- Parents or guardians of minors involved in the crash
- Estate representatives in the case of a fatality
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we often request accident reports on behalf of our clients. As your legal representative, we can obtain the report directly and use it as a foundation to build your personal injury case.
Individuals Who Cannot Access the Report
The following parties typically cannot request or access a crash report unless they fall into one of the categories above:
- Unrelated third parties
- Members of the media (unless authorized or redacted versions are available)
- Extended family members without written authorization
What You Need to Provide
To prove eligibility and complete your request, you may be asked to provide:
- A copy of your driver’s license or ID
- Proof of representation (for attorneys)
- Vehicle information (plate number or VIN)
- Relationship to the case if requesting on behalf of someone else
If you are unsure whether you are eligible to request the report, our attorneys can assess your situation and determine the proper course of action. Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford are known for their thorough attention to detail and client-first approach, ensuring no step is missed and your rights are protected throughout the process.
What Information Is Included in a Virginia Accident Report?
A Virginia police crash report is more than just a summary of events. It is an official document prepared by the responding law enforcement officer, and it often plays a central role in both insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. If you are working with a Richmond car accident lawyer, reviewing this report can provide a clear starting point for building your case.
Here is what you can typically expect to find in a Richmond accident report:
Key Elements in the Report
- Date and Time of the Crash: Establishes the timeline and helps verify witness testimony and traffic conditions.
- Exact Location of the Accident: Includes street names, intersections, or GPS coordinates. Location data is crucial for identifying jurisdiction and contributing road conditions.
- Names and Contact Information of All Involved Parties: Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians are listed, along with addresses, license numbers, and insurance details.
- Vehicle Descriptions and Damage Assessment: Information on make, model, license plate, and visible damage to each vehicle.
- Narrative and Diagram of the Incident: A written summary and visual sketch created by the officer, illustrating how the collision occurred.
- Witness Statements and Contact Information: If any bystanders or third parties gave statements, their information may be included.
- Citations or Violations Issued: Any traffic tickets or charges issued at the scene are noted and may be used to establish fault.
- Injury Descriptions: Documented injuries, including who was injured and whether emergency medical services were involved.
Why This Information Matters
As experienced Richmond personal injury attorneys, we carefully examine every detail in the accident report. A citation issued to the other driver can significantly strengthen your claim. Likewise, inconsistencies in the officer’s diagram or witness accounts may highlight the need for further investigation.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we frequently use accident reports to:
- Establish liability
- Negotiate with insurance carriers
- Support claims for pain and suffering
- Advocate for full compensation on behalf of our clients
Even seemingly minor details in the report can lead to major breakthroughs in a case. That is why we encourage every client to obtain their crash report as soon as possible—and why we offer to handle the request if needed.
How Long Does It Take to Receive an Accident Report in Virginia?
Timing is crucial after a car accident, particularly when navigating insurance companies, medical providers, and legal deadlines. Understanding how long it takes to receive an accident report in Virginia can help you plan your next steps and avoid unnecessary delays in pursuing compensation.
Average Processing Times
- Richmond Police Department: Reports are typically available within 7 to 10 business days after the crash. However, more complex accidents or incidents, particularly those involving criminal investigations, may take longer.
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): For crash reports requested through the DMV—especially those investigated by Virginia State Police—expect a processing time of 10 to 15 business days after the request is submitted.
- Mail Requests: If you mail your request to either agency, account for additional delivery and return time, which can extend the process by several days.
Factors That May Delay Your Report
- Ongoing investigations or pending charges
- Incomplete information on the initial request
- The accident occurred across jurisdictional lines (e.g., county line or interstate)
- Technical errors or data entry delays at the agency
“We regularly help clients obtain delayed or missing accident reports. Our team knows how to follow up with the appropriate agency, cut through the red tape, and keep your case moving forward,” says attorney Connor Johnson, who leads case strategy at The Johnson Injury Firm.
What You Can Do to Avoid Delays
- Double-check your information before submitting your request
- Include any known case or incident number
- Use the agency’s online portal whenever possible
- Ask your Richmond accident lawyer to handle the request on your behalf
If you are facing delays, do not wait for the report to begin your case. Our legal team can start your personal injury claim immediately and supplement it with the accident report once it becomes available.
What If You Cannot Access the Accident Report Online?
In some cases, individuals attempting to obtain a car accident report online in Virginia may encounter unexpected issues. The report may not be available, the portal may not recognize your information, or jurisdictional confusion may send you in circles. While the system is designed to be efficient, obstacles can arise, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we help clients resolve these issues every day. Our attorneys are familiar with the procedures, personnel, and paperwork necessary to expedite the release of accident reports accurately and efficiently.
Common Issues When Accessing Online Reports
- Incorrect or missing information (e.g., wrong date, name misspelled, or no case number)
- Jurisdiction errors (e.g., crash investigated by State Police, not city police)
- No report filed due to private property crash or minor incident
- Reports sealed due to an active investigation or fatality
- Technical issues on the online portal
Solutions and Workarounds
If you encounter one of the above issues, here are your options:
- Verify jurisdiction first. Check whether Richmond Police or Virginia State Police handled the crash.
- Call the agency directly. Speaking to someone in the records division can often clarify the situation.
- Submit a formal request by mail. Use the DMV’s Form CRD 93 if unsure.
- Visit the agency in person. Some reports may be available for pickup if digital access is restricted.
- Hire a qualified accident attorney. A Richmond personal injury attorney can step in, validate your eligibility, and formally request the document on your behalf.
How The Johnson Injury Firm Can Help
Our attorneys, Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford, routinely assist clients who are stuck in the crash report process. Whether it is navigating DMV bureaucracy or following up with local police, our team has the tools and experience to move things forward.
We do not simply send you a link and hope for the best—we handle the request, ensure accuracy, and explain how each piece of information affects your injury claim. If the report is unavailable, we investigate alternative records, contact witnesses, and preserve other forms of evidence to strengthen your case.
“When I could not find my crash report online, I called The Johnson Injury Firm. They had it in their hands within a few days and used it to prove the other driver was at fault. I am so thankful for their help.” —Client Testimonial
Why Your Accident Report Is Critical to a Personal Injury Claim
An accident report is not just a formality—it is often the foundation of your personal injury case. Insurance adjusters, attorneys, and even judges rely on the details in this document to assess fault, verify damages, and determine legal responsibility. If you are working with a Richmond personal injury attorney, the sooner you obtain your Virginia police crash report, the stronger your case can be from the start.
How the Report Supports Your Claim
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we carefully review every detail in your accident report to build a compelling legal strategy. This document often helps us:
- Establish fault: The officer’s narrative, diagram, and any citations issued can provide persuasive evidence that the other driver was negligent.
- Confirm injury documentation: If injuries are noted in the report, it adds credibility when negotiating with insurance companies.
- Identify key witnesses: Witness names and statements included in the report can help validate your account and provide third-party support.
- Dispute false claims: If the other party makes misleading or inaccurate statements, the official record can help correct the narrative.
- Strengthen insurance negotiations: Adjusters take accident reports seriously. A clear and detailed report can lead to faster and more favorable settlement offers.
Real Case Impact
In one recent case handled by attorney J. Penn Crawford, the accident report included a witness statement that was not initially disclosed to our client. That testimony proved instrumental in confirming liability—and led to a six-figure settlement.
“Most clients do not realize how powerful a single report can be. It is our job to use that information to their full advantage,” said Mr. Crawford.
Building Trust Through Transparency
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we take pride in combining legal expertise with compassion and clarity. We review every report with our clients, explain its meaning, and guide them through the following steps every time. This level of personal service has earned us the trust of injured Virginians across Richmond and beyond.
How The Johnson Injury Firm Helps You Navigate the Accident Report Process
Navigating the legal and procedural steps after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are injured, facing medical bills, or unsure of what comes next. That is why The Johnson Injury Firm provides more than legal representation. We act as your partner from day one, starting with one of the most important steps: securing your accident report.
Our Process: From Report to Recovery
When you contact our firm, our legal team begins investigating your case immediately. Here is how we assist with the accident report process:
- Determine the proper reporting agency based on where and how the crash occurred (Richmond Police Department vs. Virginia State Police)
- Submit accident report requests on your behalf—online, by mail, or in person, depending on the situation
- Follow up with agencies to prevent delays or locate missing documentation
- Analyze the crash report to identify favorable facts, fault indicators, and possible witness support
- Discuss the report with you directly, explaining every part of the document in clear, accessible language
- Build a case strategy based on what is contained in the report and how it aligns with your version of events
A Legal Team You Can Trust
Led by attorneys Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford, our firm brings decades of litigation and negotiation experience to every case. We are based in Richmond and deeply familiar with local law enforcement procedures, DMV processes, and courtroom expectations. This gives our clients a distinct advantage when dealing with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel.
“The Johnson Injury Firm took care of every detail—from getting the report to handling all the communication. I never had to worry,” said one recent client.
Whether you are just beginning your case or facing difficulties accessing your report, we are here to help. Your recovery matters. Your rights matter. And so does having the right legal team in your corner.
FAQs
Can I get a car accident report if I was not at fault?
Yes. In Virginia, any driver, vehicle owner, or authorized party involved in the accident can request the report, regardless of who was at fault.
How much does it cost to get an accident report in Virginia?
Typically, the cost is $8–$10 depending on the agency (Richmond Police Department or Virginia DMV).
How long does it take to receive an accident report?
It usually takes 7–10 business days for city reports and 10–15 business days for DMV reports. Delays may occur if the crash involved serious injury, fatality, or a criminal investigation.
Can my lawyer request the accident report for me?
Yes. If you hire a personal injury attorney, they can obtain the report on your behalf as your legal representative.
What if I cannot find my crash report online?
If your report is not available online, it may still be in processing or filed with the wrong agency. The Johnson Injury Firm can investigate and locate it for you.
Take the Next Step: Protect Your Rights After a Richmond Car Accident
Securing your Virginia accident report is one of the most important steps you can take after a crash—and it is something you do not have to face alone. At The Johnson Injury Firm, we ensure that our clients understand every step of the process, from requesting the report to utilizing it to support a strong legal claim.
If you were injured in a car accident in Richmond or anywhere in Virginia, our attorneys—Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford—are here to help you obtain the documentation you need, explain what it means for your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We understand the stress that follows a serious collision. Medical bills, missed work, and dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. That is why we offer free consultations and handle all communications with police departments and state agencies on your behalf.
What You Can Do Now:
- Call our office to speak directly with a Richmond car accident attorney
- Let us request your accident report and begin investigating your case
- Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your options
You do not need to navigate this alone. Let us stand beside you, protect your rights, and move your case forward—starting today.
