How to Get a Car Accident Police Report in Connecticut

One of the most important pieces of evidence you will need after a car accident is the police report. Every driver needs to know how to get a car accident police report in Connecticut and what they can expect when it comes to claiming compensation for their damages. The initial aftermath of any accident can be confusing, but working with an experienced car accident attorney can help you feel more confident in this difficult situation.

How to Get a Car Accident Police Report in Connecticut

Connecticut law requires drivers to report accidents that cause property damage, injury, or death. When police arrive on the scene of an accident, they will gather evidence, interview those involved as well as any nearby witnesses, and compile their findings into a police report. Connecticut is an at-fault state for vehicle accidents, so if another driver caused your recent crash, knowing how to get a car accident police report in Connecticut is crucial.

You may have suffered serious injuries and/or have little to no recollection of the accident. If you are able to do so on your own, you can obtain a copy of the police report for your accident within a few working days through the Connecticut State Police. Alternatively, your car accident attorney can secure the police report, and they can also gather any additional evidence you may need to prove liability for it.

Proving Fault for a Car Accident in Connecticut

The Connecticut Crash Data Repository recorded a total of 103,243 crashes involving 247,196 people in Connecticut in 2024. Most of these car accidents statistics involve more than one vehicle, and most are the result of driver negligence. Speeding, moving violations, and distracted driving are just a few examples of how car accidents often occur throughout the state each year. Accidents can also happen because of illegal misconduct, like drinking and driving.

The police report from your accident will include the responding officers’ initial findings as well as statements made by those involved. You will likely require more evidence than just the police report, and attempting to gather this evidence on your own while struggling with your injuries could be more challenging than you realize. An experienced attorney can gather additional physical and digital evidence to help you firmly establish liability for the accident.

After you have established fault for the accident, the at-fault driver will be responsible for all of the economic and non-economic damages they caused. You may be able to recover compensation for vehicle repair or replacement costs, the cost of any medical treatment you need for your injuries, and compensation for lost income if you are unable to work during your recovery. You can also claim compensation for your pain and suffering.

Your recovery may require filing an auto insurance claim and/or personal injury suit, both of which will require the police report from the accident. Ultimately, it is important to secure a copy of the police report as quickly as possible to have the greatest chance of success with the recovery efforts you attempt. The attorneys at Bartlett & Grippe can provide compassionate and responsive legal counsel for all stages of your case, so reach out today to learn how we can help.

FAQs

Are Police Reports Public in Connecticut?

Many police reports are public in Connecticut, with few exceptions. Arrest records are maintained by the State Police Bureau of Identification, which classifies them as public records. Members of the public are also able to access vehicle accident police reports from the Connecticut State Police Accident Information Summaries website. If you were recently involved in an accident, a copy of the police report is a crucial piece of evidence.

How Do You Prove Liability for a Car Accident in Connecticut?

Proving liability for a car accident in Connecticut typically requires evidence and witness testimony. Your attorney can gather evidence, such as the police report from your accident, vehicle computer data, cell phone records, and traffic camera footage, if available. Your attorney can also identify witnesses who saw the accident happen and obtain statements that can support your case.

Do I Have to Report a Car Accident in Connecticut?

You have to report a car accident in Connecticut if the accident resulted in property damage, injury, or death. If you are unsure whether you need to report an accident, it is always safest to err on the side of caution and report it. This will ensure you meet the reporting requirement and that first responders can arrive on the scene as quickly as possible. Do not leave the scene of the accident until responding officers allow you to leave.

When Should I Hire an Attorney for a Car Accident in Connecticut?

You should hire an attorney for a car accident in Connecticut as quickly as possible after the accident. If another driver caused the accident, you would need an experienced attorney’s help to hold them accountable for the damages they caused. You have limited time to pursue accountability and compensation for your damages, so it is crucial that you consult an attorney at your first opportunity.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Report in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, it usually only takes a few business days to get a copy of a police report. The exact timeframe usually depends on the nature of the accident and whether any type of follow-up investigation is necessary. Standard car accident police reports are usually available from the Connecticut State Police Accident Information Summaries website within a few business days, while those involving arrests may take longer to become publicly available.

The aftermath of any car accident can be confusing, and knowing how to get a car accident police report in Connecticut is crucial for every driver. If you believe another driver caused your accident, the police report will be a valuable piece of evidence, and an experienced attorney can help you gather the other necessary elements of your case. Contact Bartlett & Grippe today to schedule a free consultation and learn how our team can assist with your recovery efforts.