Detailed answer

This article explains how to get a copy of a crash report or a more detailed accident/incident report in Oklahoma and how those records can support an insurance claim. This is educational information only and not legal advice.

Who creates and keeps crash reports?

The police agency that responds to the collision (city police, county sheriff, or the Oklahoma Highway Patrol) prepares the official crash report. For state highways or incidents handled by State Troopers, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS)/Oklahoma Highway Patrol maintains the report. Local police or sheriff departments keep reports for crashes in their jurisdictions.

Can you get your crash report?

Yes. Under Oklahoma public records rules and standard police practice, you can request a copy of the crash report prepared by the responding law enforcement agency. Most agencies release the basic crash report to involved parties, insurance companies, and the public, although some information may be redacted (for example, social security numbers or sensitive investigative details).

Relevant law and where to look

Oklahoma’s public access rules are governed by the Oklahoma Open Records Act. See Title 51 of the Oklahoma Statutes (Open Records Act) for general rules about access, disclosure, and permitted redactions. For state-maintained crash reports and instructions, check the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety website. Helpful starting points:

• Oklahoma Legislature (statutes and the Open Records Act, Title 51)
• Oklahoma Department of Public Safety

Common limits on disclosure

While crash reports are generally available, law enforcement can withhold or redact portions if disclosure would jeopardize an ongoing criminal investigation or reveal confidential information protected by law. Identifying information like social security numbers and medical records will normally be redacted. If you need additional investigative materials (photos, witness statements, dash-cam/body-cam video), agencies often treat those as separate records and may require a specific request.

Step-by-step: How to request your crash report

1. Identify the responding agency. Look for the agency name on any paperwork you already have (police report number, citation, or a contact card). If you are unsure, call the non-emergency number for the city police, county sheriff, or the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for the county/route where the crash occurred.
2. Request the report directly from that agency. Most agencies accept requests in person, by mail, by email, or through an online portal. For state-level crashes, the DPS or OHP page has instructions for ordering crash reports online.
3. Provide required information. Typical requests need the names of involved drivers, the crash date and location, and the report or case number if you have it.
4. Pay any fee. Agencies commonly charge a small fee for a certified copy or for copying costs. Fees vary by agency.
5. Ask about supplemental materials. If you need photos, diagrams, witness statements, or video, ask whether those exist and the procedure to request them. These items may be governed separately and could require a formal Open Records request.

Timing and what to expect

Many agencies post basic crash reports within days to weeks after the incident. If investigators need more time (serious injury, fatality, or complex scene), release may be delayed. Video and body-cam footage often take longer to process and may be subject to broader redaction or withholding rules.

Using the report for an insurance claim

A copy of the crash report is useful for your insurer because it contains officer observations, diagram of the collision, listed contributing factors, and witness information. Provide the report to your insurance adjuster as soon as you receive it. If the report is missing important facts, ask the responding agency whether supplemental or follow-up reports exist and how to obtain them.

When a report isn’t enough

If the basic crash report lacks details you need for a claim (for example, exact speeds, extended witness statements, or raw video), consider these options:

• Request supplemental reports and evidence from the responding agency via an Open Records request.
• Ask your insurance company to subpoena records if the agency refuses to release certain materials for investigatory reasons.
• If there are injuries or disputed fault, consult a lawyer to learn what additional evidence (accident reconstruction, medical records, expert testimony) will help your claim.

If the agency denies or delays release

If your request is denied or heavily redacted and you believe the withheld material is public, you may ask the agency for a written explanation of the legal basis for withholding. If disagreement persists, the Oklahoma Open Records Act allows the requester to file a petition in court to compel disclosure. Legal advice or counsel can help with that process.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a licensed Oklahoma attorney.

Helpful hints

• Start by contacting the specific law enforcement agency that responded — it is the fastest way to get the report.
• Keep a written record of your request (email or mailed letter) and note dates and names of people you speak with.
• Ask for the report number at the scene or from the officer before you leave — it speeds up later requests.
• If you need video or detailed witness statements, ask for those separately and be prepared to make a formal Open Records request.
• Expect small fees for copies or certification; ask about costs up front.
• If the crash involved a state route or troopers, check the Oklahoma DPS/OHP site for online ordering options.
• If you face a refusal to disclose, request a written denial and the legal basis. Consider consulting an attorney or using the formal appeal process under the Oklahoma Open Records Act.