If you’ve been involved in a Kensington accident, getting your accident report is one of the first steps to take. This document can play a major role in any insurance claim or legal case. Without it, you may not have the full picture or the evidence needed to protect your rights.

At Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers, we help people in Kensington and across Philadelphia navigate the aftermath of serious accidents. With more than 75 years of combined legal experience, our team knows how to use key evidence, such as accident reports, to build strong cases. If you have questions about your report or your next steps, we’re here to help.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to request your Kensington car accident report and what to expect depending on which agency handled the crash.

What Is an Accident Report?

An accident report, also called a police report on a car accident or a crash report, is an official record created by law enforcement after a car crash. The report explains what happened during the accident. It includes important details such as:

• The date, time, and location of the crash;
• The people involved;
• The vehicles involved;
• Statements from drivers and witnesses; and
• The officer’s notes about what they observed at the scene.

The report provides a clear, independent account of the accident. Insurance companies and attorneys rely on it to understand the crash and assign responsibility.

How Do I Get My Police Report on a Car Accident in Kensington?

If you’re trying to get your Kensington car accident report, the process depends on which agency investigated the crash. In many Kensington cases, the Philadelphia Police Department handles the report. However, there may be instances where the Pennsylvania State Police is responsible for the report.  

Philadelphia Police Department Reports

If your accident was handled by the Philadelphia Police Department, you can request your report in several ways.

1. Mail

To request your report by mail, send a completedapplication and payment to the Philadelphia PD’s Department of Records:

Department of Records

Public Safety Records Unit

City Hall, Room 170

1400 John F. Kennedy Blvd.

Philadelphia, PA 19107

Include a business check or money order for $25, payable to the City of Philadelphia. The fee is non-refundable. Add a self-addressed, stamped envelope to receive your report.

Reports are generally available within one to three weeks after the collision, depending on the complexity of the investigation. 

2. In Person

You can also drop off your application and payment at the Department of Records in person (see address above). 

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. When you submit your request, the Department of Records will forward it to the issuing department. Once it is processed, you will receive a copy of your report.

3. Online

You can request your report online through the City of Philadelphia’s portal. This allows you to handle everything from home.

Enter your crash details online and follow prompts to request your report. This is usually the fastest and most convenient method.

Pennsylvania State Police Reports

If the Pennsylvania State Police investigated your crash, their process differs and usually applies to crashes on state highways or in specific areas.

Crash reports from the Pennsylvania State Police are generally available about 15 days after the accident. Not everyone can request them; only specific parties are eligible. This includes individuals involved in the crash, their attorneys or insurance companies, and certain government agencies.

The cost for a Pennsylvania State Police crash report is $22.

1. Online 

The Pennsylvania State Police offers an online system for requesting crash reports, which many people find the fastest option.

First, search for your report. If you have it, you can use the incident number. This may have been provided by the responding law enforcement personnel at the scene. If not, you can search by your name and the crash date.

Once you find the report, complete an online application form. This form asks for basic information and the reason for your request. After you submit it, you will get a confirmation email. Your request will be reviewed in about seven business days.

If your request is approved, you’ll get an email with instructions to pay the fee. After payment, your report will be sent to you electronically.

2. Mail Request

You can also request your report by mail if you prefer a paper process.

Start by downloading, completing, and signing the application form. You will need to provide details such as the date and time of the crash, the location, your contact information, and the names of any other involved parties.

Mail the completed form along with a money order or certified check for $22, payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, to:

PA State Police

Crash Reports Unit

1800 Elmerton Avenue

Harrisburg, PA 17110

Check that all information is correct and complete to avoid delays. When processed, your report will be mailed to you.

Let Us Help You Get Your Kensington Accident Report and Explain Your Legal Options

Getting your Kensington car accident report is important, but it’s only one step. Knowing how to use that report and how to protect your rights moving forward can make a real difference.

At Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers, we stand up for injured people across Kensington and the Philadelphia area. Our Kensington personal injury lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for clients and are known for tackling tough cases, even if it means going to trial. We work on a contingency fee basis; you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

If you were hurt in a car accident, we’ll help you understand your options and move forward confidently. Contact us to talk about your case and see how we can help.

Legal References Used to Inform This Page

To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:​​

• City of Philadelphia, “Get a copy of a public safety report”
• City of Philadelphia, “Public safety reports”
• Pennsylvania State – Application to Obtain Copy of Police Crash Report  
• Pennsylvania Government, “How to Request a Crash Report”