Reports are not usually available immediately — agencies need time to complete and process them, and timing varies by agency and by the complexity of the investigation. While you wait, keep your own records, confirm the responding agency, and check that agency’s process for when reports are typically released.
Why reports take time
An officer has to complete the report, and the agency has to process and, in some cases, review it before release. Investigations that are ongoing — for example, a hit-and-run or a serious-injury collision — can take longer.
What you can do in the meantime
- Keep your own records: photos, notes, and the information you exchanged at the scene.
- Confirm which agency responded — see how to identify the responding agency.
- Check that agency’s official process for when reports are typically available and how to request one.
- Some agencies ask you to wait a set period before requesting; follow the agency’s guidance.
Still cannot find it
Try Find My Accident to search recent collisions by location, date and road. If it is not listed, you can ask for help locating your accident information through Accident Report Help.