Car accident records are available in Massachusetts, but you need to know where to look. The police crash report is your starting point. From there, an attorney can gather additional documentation to build your case. Do not wait too long. Evidence and records become harder to obtain as time passes.
What Types of Accident Records Exist in Massachusetts?
There are a few different kinds of records that may be relevant after a crash:
- Crash reports filed by police (also called motor vehicle accident reports)
- Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) records related to your license or vehicle
- MassDOT crash data, which covers statewide accident statistics
- Insurance claim records
- Medical records from the treatment you received after the crash
The most important document for most injury claims is the official crash report filed by the responding police officer. That report captures basic facts about the accident, including the date, location, vehicles involved, and any citations issued.
How to Get the Police Crash Report
If police responded to your accident, they filed a crash report. Here is how to get it:
- Contact the law enforcement agency that responded. This could be your local police department, the Massachusetts State Police, or a city department like the Boston Police.
- You can usually request the report in person, by mail, or through an online portal if one is available.
- There is typically a small fee, often between $10 and $25, depending on the agency.
- Provide your name, the date of the accident, and the accident location to help them locate the right report.
In Massachusetts, crash reports are filed on a standard form called the Motor Vehicle Crash Operator Report. All parties involved in the crash are generally entitled to request a copy. If you need assistance obtaining police reports, our office can help you secure them for free.
How to Access Crash Data from MassDOT
MassDOT, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, maintains a statewide database of crash information called the IMPACT Crash Data Portal. It is available to the public at: https://apps.crashdata.dot.mass.gov/cdp/home
This database is more useful for research purposes than for getting your individual crash report. It includes data about crash frequency, locations, types of crashes, and contributing factors across the Commonwealth. Attorneys use this data to identify dangerous intersections and patterns of accidents.
For your personal accident report, you still need to contact the responding law enforcement agency directly.
Can Anyone Access My Accident Records?
Massachusetts has rules about who can obtain certain records.
- Police crash reports: Involved parties and their legal representatives can typically get copies. Third parties may face more restrictions.
- RMV records: Access is limited under federal law. The Driver’s Privacy Protection Act restricts who can obtain personal information from motor vehicle records without a permissible purpose.
If you hire an attorney, they can request records on your behalf and access a broader range of documentation through the legal discovery process.
What If There Was No Police Report?
Not every accident results in a police report. If officers did not respond to the scene, or if the crash was minor and no report was filed, you may still be able to document the accident.
In Massachusetts, drivers involved in a crash that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 are required to file an accident report with the RMV within five days. This is sometimes called the operator’s report. Contact a local accident attorney to help you handle this correctly if a police report was never filed for your accident.
How Accident Records Help Your Injury Claim
Accident records are some of the most important evidence in a personal injury case. The police report may:
- Establish who was at fault based on the officer’s observations
- Document injuries or property damage observed at the scene
- Record witness information and statements
- Note any traffic violations or citations issued
Insurance companies rely heavily on crash reports when evaluating claims. If the report contains errors, it can be challenged. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand the report and determine whether anything needs to be corrected.
Need Help Getting Your Records?
DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers can help you gather the documentation you need after a car accident. Call 855-342-3552 or contact us online for a free consultation. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on getting better. No fee unless we win.
Sources
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles
- Massachusetts Auto Insurance Claims FAQ: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/frequently-asked-questions-about-auto-insurance-claims