Check out 'The Soloff & Zervanos Show' Podcast on WWDB Talk 860 - Click Here !
Local: (215)732-2260
Local: (215)732-2260

How Do I Get a Police Report for a Car Accident in Philadelphia?

Posted in Car Accidents on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

If you have experienced a car accident in Philadelphia, getting a copy of the police report is key to winning your insurance claim or legal case.  The police report is packed full of crucial details about the crash, like statements from those involved, witness accounts of the event, and details from the responding officer. Here is everything you will need to know about getting yourself a copy of the police report in Philadelphia.

Wait for the Report to Be Filed

The officer may take some time to process and file the report. In Philadelphia, this can take a few days or even a few weeks, depending on how complicated the crash was. The best practice is to wait at least five business days before checking in with the officer who responded to the accident.

Information Needed for Your Request

To ask for a copy of your accident report, make sure you have the date and time of the accident, the location, and the names of all individuals involved in the crash. If the responding officer gave you an incident number, that would help move things along a bit quicker.

How to Request the Police Report

In Philadelphia, you have a few options for requesting a police report:

  • Online: Your quickest option is to order the report online through the Philadelphia Police Department’s website. There are clear instructions, and you can pay the required fee with a card (usually around $25).
  • Snail Mail: You can send a written request to the Philadelphia Police Department’s Records Unit along with info regarding the incident, as well as payment (cash or check).
  • In-Person: You can go to the Records Unit in person at 750 Race Street, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., where you can give details of your accident and pay the required fee.

Submitted requests need processing, so prepare to wait a few days before receiving the report.  The length of your wait can depend on the way you requested the report and how busy the Records Unit is.

Need Help After a Car Accident?

Even after you receive a copy of your report, you may be left feeling confused about your options after the accident. Your best bet is to seek professional advice from an attorney, who will help highlight key points in the report and offer guidance on your next steps. Contact our firm to discuss your legal options with a knowledgeable attorney.