Get a Car Accident Report in the State of Minnesota
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How to Report?
Car Accident in the State of Minnesota
If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident in Minnesota, securing a copy of the official crash report is essential for insurance claims, legal proceedings, or accurate personal documentation. In Minnesota, accident reports are filed by the investigating law enforcement agency and maintained by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) or local agencies.
This guide outlines how to obtain an accident report in Minnesota, who can request one, and what information is included.
Who Can Access a Crash Report in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, accident reports are public records. However, only specific individuals and entities may access unredacted versions, including:
Drivers and passengers involved in the crash
Registered vehicle owners
Legal representatives or attorneys for any party involved
Insurance companies handling claims
Law enforcement and government agencies
Redacted copies may be available to members of the general public.
What Agency Filed the Report?
The agency that responded to the scene of the crash is responsible for generating the report. In Minnesota, this could be:
Minnesota State Patrol (MSP) – for crashes on highways and state roads
County Sheriff’s Offices – for incidents in rural or unincorporated areas
Municipal Police Departments – for crashes within city limits
Reports created by the State Patrol are filed with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), while other agencies may handle their own distribution.
Guide To Report
How to Report Accident in Minnesota
There are three official ways to request your Minnesota car accident report:
1. Online via the Minnesota DPS Crash Record Request System
For State Patrol crash reports and other reports processed by DPS, you can submit a request through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services division.
Steps:
Visit: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs
Download and complete the Crash Record Request Form (PS2502)
Include:
Full names of drivers involved
Date and location of the crash
Report or case number (if known)
Your relationship to the incident
Include a copy of your photo ID and a check or money order for $5.00 made payable to “Driver and Vehicle Services”
Mail to:
Driver and Vehicle Services – Records 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 190 Saint Paul, MN 55101
Reports are typically available within 10–14 business days.
2. From a Local Police Department or Sheriff’s Office
If your crash was handled by a municipal or county agency, you may be able to request the report directly from their records division.
Most agencies accept:
In-person or written requests
Email or fax submissions (in some cases)
Online portals, including LexisNexis or CrashDocs
Fees typically range from $5 to $10 depending on the department. Make sure to provide:
Names of involved parties
Date, time, and location of the crash
Report number (if known)
Proof of identity or legal interest in the case
3. Through Your Insurance Company or Attorney
Attorneys and insurance companies routinely request crash reports. Check with them first before making a request, as they may already have access to the documentation
What Is Included in a Minnesota Accident Report?
A typical Minnesota crash report includes:
Names, addresses, and contact information of drivers
Vehicle descriptions, license plates, and VINs
Insurance information for each party
Time, date, and location of the crash
Weather, road, and lighting conditions
Description of injuries or fatalities
Officer’s written narrative and diagram of the crash
Witness information (if applicable)
Citations issued or suspected violations
This report is used by insurers, attorneys, and the courts to help determine fault and liability.
FAQS
About Report
When Will the Report Be Available?
Minnesota State Patrol (via DPS): Typically within 10–14 business days
Local law enforcement: Usually within 5–10 business days
Serious or fatal crashes: May require extended processing time
Important Considerations
Requests for unredacted reports must include proof of involvement or representation
Incomplete forms or missing payment will delay processing
Reports are not automatically mailed to drivers—you must request them
Online access is limited; most requests are handled by mail
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