Finding information about a recent car crash in Kansas can be stressful. This guide provides resources for locating accident reports online and understanding the process. You can use the Kansas Highway Patrol Crash Log to quickly find preliminary information about injury or fatality crashes within the last 14 days.
Accessing Preliminary Crash Information Online
The Kansas Highway Patrol Crash Log allows public access to basic details about recent accidents. This online database includes crashes involving injuries or fatalities. Data is available for up to 14 days after the incident, sometimes extending to 30 days if updates occur. You can search the database by:
- Date: Narrow your search by specifying the date of the accident.
- County: Filter results to a specific Kansas county.
- Type of Crash: Refine your search based on the nature of the accident.
Remember that information in the crash log is preliminary and subject to change. It is frequently updated as investigations progress.
Obtaining Official Kansas Accident Reports
For a comprehensive account of the accident, you’ll need an official crash report. These reports are available for accidents that occurred since May 2013. You can obtain them:
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Online: Access the official accident report request portal at https://www.kansas.gov/accident-reports/.
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By Mail: Submit a written request with a self-addressed, stamped envelope, and payment to the Kansas Highway Patrol Records Section.
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In Person: Visit the Kansas Highway Patrol General Headquarters Records section.
Whether requesting online, by mail, or in person, provide the following information to expedite your request:
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Name of Involved Individual: Knowing the name of someone involved in the accident helps narrow down the search.
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Case Number: If you have it, the case number directly identifies the specific accident report.
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Date of Accident: Providing the date helps locate the correct report.
There is a $5.00 fee for each accident report and a $2.00 fee for each witness statement.
Understanding the Kansas Open Records Act
The release of crash report information is governed by the Kansas Open Records Act. While public access is generally granted, some information may be withheld to protect individual privacy, particularly in fatality crashes where next of kin notification is pending.
Disclaimer and Limitations
The information available online and in official reports is intended for informational purposes only. The Kansas Highway Patrol does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and disclaims any liability for errors or omissions. The mention of specific commercial products or services does not constitute endorsement by the Kansas Highway Patrol.
Finding a Car Crash Today Near Me: Summary
Locating information about recent car crashes in Kansas involves using the online crash log for preliminary details and requesting official reports for comprehensive information. Remember that fees apply for official reports and access may be limited in certain circumstances.
