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Las Vegas Accident Report Guide: Essential Information


— March 24, 2025

Getting your accident report is just one step in protecting yourself after a collision.


All car accident victims should obtain official accident reports after experiencing accidents in Las Vegas. The document created by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department with other local agencies serves as an essential tool for insurance claims processing and legal procedures. The existence of an official Las Vegas police report creates substantial evidence that supports your case alongside providing direction towards claims procedures.

Why an Accident Report Is Important

An official accident report creates unbiased documentation that details all who observed the incident. The decision-making process for insurance companies exists based on accident reports when they determine liability and evaluate claims. You will struggle with multiple obstacles if you do not have an accident report.

When an official reports the crash story they provide us with an objective description of all events. Insurance firms use official documents to judge who caused the accident and complete the claims process. You will encounter difficulties if you lack an official police report in Las Vegas in issues of determining fault and processing insurance claims.

  • Proving who was at fault
  • Documenting the extent of damages
  • Supporting your insurance claim
  • Creating your case for legal proceedings when needed

Getting Professional Help

Having injuries requires you to contact an attorney in your area. Contact us on (702) 291-8007 or email us to access your report free of charge through our professional service. An experienced accident attorney can:

  • Understand how the report affects your legal case details
  • Detect problems in the report that need professional attention
  • Apply the report to develop stronger evidence in your matter
  • We assist you with all contact made to insurance companies

Identifying the Correct Agency

First make sure to determine which police department dealt with your event at the scene. Several organizations maintain public safety in Las Vegas which includes:

  • Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD)
  • North Las Vegas Police Department
  • Henderson Police Department
  • Nevada Highway Patrol
  • Nevada State Police

You need to find the proper agency because they determine which report you will receive. Visit any Las Vegas police documentation you have from the scene or dial (702) 828-3111 for the non-emergency line to determine which response agency handled your call.

Methods to Request Your Report

Online Request

  • Those seeking police records can easily submit their request using the Las Vegas police report online service on the department’s website.
  • A fee of about $12 applies
  • The report processing period usually takes 10 business days to complete the request
  • You must establish an account or leave your contact details to get digital delivery
  • People normally use this selection when their police needs are not critical

In-Person Request

  • You may visit the Records and Fingerprint Bureau at 400 S. Martin Luther King Blvd. (Building C) with valid ID from Monday to Thursday between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
  • Show your valid ID and have the required service fee ready
  • A regular office visit lets you get your results sooner than using the online system
  • After 30 days the office automatically destroys reports not collected by the owner
  • You should select this choice when you want your document fast

Request By Mail

  • Submit your filled request form to the bureau headquarters by mail
  • Send us both your ID and its photocopy
  • Please return your results using the self-addressed envelope you provide
  • Send the fee money order or check with your request
  • Wait longer than normal preparation time when you send in your mail application

Information You’ll Need

Gather all required information before submitting your request to the agency.

  • The records need the exact time and spot where the accident happened with full date details
  • Names of all parties involved
  • Provide details about vehicle type, manufacturer, product name and license plate number
  • Report or Incident number if given during the scene investigation
  • Your contact information
  • Your role in the accident (driver, passenger, vehicle owner)

Acceptable Identification

Before getting your report you need to show your official identification when you make the request. Acceptable forms include:

  • Driver’s license
  • State-issued ID card
  • Passport
  • Military ID

The authorities will need proper authorization documentation if you submit the request as a representative of another party.

What If No Report Was Filed?

Police officer leaning in window of car after accident; image by Matt Chesin, via Unsplash.com.
Image by Matt Chesin, via Unsplash.com.

After an accident in Nevada you must still submit a police report when three important conditions apply:

  • Significant damage (typically over $750)
  • Any injuries or fatalities
  • Hit-and-run incidents

You need to submit the Report of Traffic Accident SR-1 Form either at designated agencies or through the Nevada DMV. You must submit your report within 10 days of the incident based on Nevada state regulations.

Understanding Your Report Once Received

Check your accident report for all right details including the following information:

  • Accurate description of the accident
  • The report should feature accurate details about everyone who was part of the incident
  • Proper documentation of injuries and damage
  • Officer’s notes and potential determination of fault
  • Witness statements and contact information

Tell the issuing agency right away when you spot wrong information in your report.

What to Do Following Admission of Your Accident Report

Review each section in your accident report that includes:

  • Send the copies to your insurance provider
  • Hold a duplicate file for your individual records
  • Give your appointed lawyer the report when you have chosen to hire one
  • The information will direct you toward any necessary legal actions

Taking Action After Your Accident

Getting your accident report is just one step in protecting yourself after a collision. When you have this crucial document in hand, take immediate action to preserve your rights and pursue fair compensation. Don’t delay – insurance companies work quickly to minimize their liability. An experienced Las Vegas accident attorney can help navigate this challenging process and ensure your interests are protected throughout negotiations and potential litigation.

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