Traffic Accident Report: Understanding Who Can Request and Access

In the State of Texas, traffic accidents can be a serious issue that affects not only those directly involved but also the broader community. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is responsible for collecting and maintaining crash reports from law enforcement agencies across the state. In this article, we will delve into who can request a traffic accident report in Texas and how it can be accessed.

Who Can Request a Traffic Accident Report?

According to Texas Transportation Code §550.065, any person directly concerned in an accident or having a proper interest therein can request a crash report on written request and upon payment of the required fee. This includes:

* A radio or television station that holds a license issued by the Federal Communications Commission

* A person under contract to provide claims or underwriting to a person described in sections (F), (G) or (H)

* An insurance company that issued a policy covering any person involved in the accident

* An employer, parent or legal guardian of a driver involved in the accident

* The authorized representative of any person involved in the accident

* The owner of a vehicle or property damaged in the accident

How to Request a Traffic Accident Report

To request a traffic accident report in Texas, you will need to submit a written request to TxDOT and pay the required fee. Please note that CR-2 or similar local agency forms submitted to TxDOT will be destroyed as required by their records retention policy.

Retention Period for Crash Reports

As of September 1, 2017, per Senate Bill 312, the Driver's Crash Report (Form CR-2) is no longer retained by TxDOT. The state retention schedule for crash reports and data is 10 years plus the current year. However, published annual reports may be available for years outside this retention period.

Data Analysis

Effective September , data analysis for years outside this retention period is unavailable. If you need to access crash report data for a specific time period, it's best to contact TxDOT directly to inquire about availability and any potential fees associated with obtaining the information.

In conclusion, understanding who can request and access traffic accident reports in Texas is crucial for those involved in an accident or seeking information on a specific incident. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that your request is processed efficiently and accurately.

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