Detailed Answer
This section explains how to obtain a copy of a Wisconsin traffic crash report and what to do if you need more detail for an insurance claim or legal matter. The guidance below summarizes how crash reports are created, who can access them, where to request them, timing and fees, and options if the report does not include the information you need.
What a Wisconsin crash report is and who prepares it
When a law enforcement officer investigates a motor vehicle crash in Wisconsin, the officer usually completes the Wisconsin Traffic Crash Report form. That report documents the basic facts observed by the officer: date/time, location, parties involved, visible injuries, vehicle damage, and a narrative summary of what the officer believes happened. The investigating agency (city police, county sheriff, or state patrol) files the report and often forwards a copy to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT).
Who can get a copy
Crash reports are generally public records in Wisconsin, so members of the public—including the drivers involved and their insurance companies—can request a copy. Certain personal identifiers or confidential law enforcement information may be redacted under Wisconsin’s public records law. For the statutory framework on traffic crash reporting, see Wis. Stat. § 346.70: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/346/70. For Wisconsin’s public records rules, see Chapter 19: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/19.
Where and how to request a crash report
- Contact the law enforcement agency that investigated the crash. If you do not know which agency responded, check your insurance paperwork, tow records, or the DOT crash data page: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/crashdata/default.aspx.
- Provide identifying information: date and time of the crash, location, names of drivers, and the agency report number if you have it. Ask whether they accept requests in person, by phone, by email, or by mail.
- Pay any reasonable copy or processing fee. Agencies commonly charge a modest fee for copies and for search time under Wisconsin’s public records rules.
- Ask whether the crash report has been finalized and submitted to DOT. Some agencies complete reports in a few days; others may take several business days or weeks depending on caseload and whether additional investigation (e.g., for serious injury or fatal crashes) is required.
If you need more detail than the standard crash report provides
The standard crash report summarizes the officer’s observations and conclusions. If you need more information for an insurance claim or litigation, consider these options:
- Request related public records from the agency: 911 call logs, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) reports, photos taken by officers, tow records, or video (dashcams or body-worn cameras). These records may be available under Wisconsin’s open records law though some content (e.g., ongoing-investigation material, certain witness information) may be withheld or redacted.
- Ask the investigating officer or records division if there is a supplemental report or evidence log not included in the initial crash report.
- Coordinate with your insurer. Adjusters regularly request and obtain accident reports and related records. They can also hire investigators if more follow-up is needed.
- If you are a party to litigation, your attorney can obtain additional material through discovery and may subpoena the complete investigative file (subject to court rulings on confidentiality or privilege).
Privacy, redactions, and denied requests
While crash reports are public records, Wisconsin law allows redaction of certain personal identifiers and the limited withholding of records if disclosure would harm an ongoing investigation or violate privacy interests under Chapter 19. If the agency denies your request or redacts material, ask for a written explanation citing the legal basis for the denial. You can appeal a denial under the Wisconsin public records process or consult an attorney if necessary.
Common practical timelines and fees
Timelines: many agencies can provide a copy within several business days after the report is complete. More serious crashes or investigations can take longer. Fees: agencies typically charge copying fees and may charge a small search or retrieval fee consistent with Wisconsin public records law. Ask the records clerk for the fee schedule up front.
Key statutes and official resources
- Wisconsin traffic crash reporting statute (Wis. Stat. § 346.70): https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/346/70.
- Wisconsin public records and open meetings law (Chapter 19): https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/19.
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation — crash data and report information: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/crashdata/default.aspx.
Helpful Hints
- Start with the officer’s agency: most crash reports are obtained faster from the police department or sheriff’s office that responded than from DOT.
- Collect identifying details before you call: date/time, exact location, names, license plate numbers, and the report number, if available.
- Ask whether the agency posts a redacted copy online or offers electronic delivery to speed the process.
- If you need videos or body-cam footage, request them specifically and ask about possible exemptions or redactions under public records law.
- If you receive a heavily redacted report and believe you need the withheld material for a claim, discuss options with your insurer or consult an attorney about subpoena or court-ordered disclosure.
- Keep a paper or electronic copy of every record request and any written responses in case you need to show follow-up or pursue an appeal.
- Remember that the officer’s crash report is often a starting point. Witness statements, surveillance video, vehicle data, and expert reconstruction may be necessary for a full understanding of fault and damages.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. I am not a lawyer. For advice specific to your situation, consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney or the appropriate law enforcement records office.