In the aftermath of A Car Crash in Texas, obtaining a crash report is a crucial step for various reasons, from insurance claims to legal proceedings. Texas law, specifically Texas Transportation Code §550.065, outlines who is legally entitled to access these reports. Understanding this law is essential for anyone involved in or affected by a car accident in Texas.
Who is Eligible to Receive a Texas Car Crash Report?
Texas law grants access to car crash reports to specific individuals and entities directly or indirectly involved in the incident. This ensures that those with a legitimate need for the information can obtain it, while also protecting the privacy of individuals involved. According to Texas Transportation Code §550.065, the following parties are entitled to a crash report upon written request and payment of the required fee:
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Directly Involved Individuals: This encompasses anyone who was directly part of the accident. This clearly includes:
- Any person involved in the car crash itself.
- A driver involved in the accident.
- Passengers injured in the crash would also fall under “any person involved.”
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Representatives of Involved Parties: Recognizing that individuals may need assistance, the law allows for authorized representatives to act on their behalf:
- The authorized representative of any person involved in the accident.
- An employer, parent, or legal guardian of a driver involved in the accident. This acknowledges the responsibility and potential liability employers and guardians may have.
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Vehicle and Property Owners: Those whose property was damaged in the crash have a clear need for the report:
- The owner of a vehicle or property damaged in the accident.
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Financial Responsibility and Insurance Entities: Parties responsible for financial coverage related to the vehicles or individuals involved are granted access:
- A person who has established financial responsibility for a vehicle involved in the accident, including a policyholder of a motor vehicle liability insurance policy covering the vehicle.
- An insurance company that issued an insurance policy covering any vehicle involved in the accident.
- An insurance company that issued a policy covering any person involved in the accident.
- A person under contract to provide claims or underwriting services to these insurance entities.
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Media Outlets: Recognizing the public interest in news and information, certain media organizations are included:
- A radio or television station holding a license from the Federal Communications Commission.
- A qualified newspaper, meeting specific criteria related to circulation and public interest in news dissemination.
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Legal and Related Parties: Those with potential legal standing or responsibilities arising from the crash are also included:
- Any person who may sue because of death resulting from the accident.
- An employee or authorized representative of a vehicle storage facility that stored a vehicle involved in the accident.
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Government Agencies: Finally, governmental bodies may require crash reports for various purposes:
- An agency of the United States, the State of Texas, or a local government within Texas.
Access for Those Not Explicitly Listed
For individuals or entities who do not fit into any of the categories listed above, Texas law provides a pathway to request a crash report. However, in these cases, while a report may still be released, it will likely be a redacted copy. This means certain personal information may be removed to protect privacy. TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation) provides an option for those not explicitly listed to explain their “proper interest” in obtaining the report. This allows for consideration of requests on a case-by-case basis, while still adhering to the principles of the law.
Understanding Your Rights to a Car Crash Report
Texas Transportation Code §550.065 ensures that individuals and entities with a legitimate connection to a car crash have the right to access the official report. Whether you were directly involved, represent someone who was, or have a financial or legal interest, understanding these regulations is key to obtaining the information you need following a car accident in Texas.
