Short Answer

In North Carolina, request the crash report (DMV-349) directly from the investigating agency’s Records Unit (city police, county sheriff, or State Highway Patrol). Have the report number if you received it; otherwise use the date, location, and names to search. Reports typically post within a few days, and a small fee may apply. You can also ask your attorney to request it for you.

Understanding the Problem

You’re a North Carolina driver who was in a collision and you want the official police crash report to understand what the officer recorded. The narrow question is: how do you, as an involved driver, get the report from the agency that investigated your crash, and when is it available?

Apply the Law

Under North Carolina law, the officer who investigates a motor vehicle collision completes a DMV-349 crash report and submits it to the Division of Motor Vehicles. That report is a public record with certain personal information removed. To get a copy, you contact the investigating agency’s Records Unit (or use its online portal) and request the DMV-349 for your crash. Most agencies release reports after the officer files and approves them, often within 3–7 business days, but timing varies by agency.

Key Requirements

• Identify the investigating agency: Determine whether city police, a county sheriff’s office, or the North Carolina State Highway Patrol handled the crash.
• Have search details ready: Report number (if provided), plus the crash date, location, and names of drivers.
• Request through the Records Unit: Use the agency’s records counter, online request portal, or mail-in request, as offered.
• Allow processing time: Reports usually appear a few days after the officer submits them; supplements may post later.
• Pay any fee: Agencies typically charge a small fee for certified or printed copies; many provide electronic PDFs.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 20-166.1 (Reports of accidents) - Officers prepare crash reports and submit them to the Division; reports are maintained and subject to access rules.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 132-1 (Public records) - Defines public records and the public’s right to inspect and obtain copies, with limited redactions.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: Because you were in a North Carolina crash and want the report details, start by confirming which agency investigated. If it was a city police department or sheriff’s office, request the DMV-349 from that agency’s Records Unit using the crash date, location, and driver names (or the report number, if you have it). If it was the State Highway Patrol, use its public request process. Expect a brief wait while the officer finalizes the report.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: An involved driver, passenger, vehicle owner, or their attorney. Where: The investigating agency’s Records Unit in North Carolina (city police department, county sheriff’s office, or the North Carolina State Highway Patrol). What: Request the “Crash Report (DMV-349)” using the agency’s online portal or records request form posted on its official website. When: Reports typically become available within 3–7 business days after the crash, but some take longer.
2. Pay any stated fee and request electronic delivery (PDF) or pick up a paper or certified copy at the Records Unit. Ask whether any supplemental reports or diagrams will follow.
3. Receive the crash report and review it for accuracy. If you find errors, follow the agency’s process to request a correction or supplemental statement.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• Wrong agency: If multiple agencies responded, only the primary investigating agency files the report; confirm which one handled it.
• Too early: Reports are not instant—check back in a few days if the officer has not filed it yet.
• Search mismatches: Small spelling or date errors can block online searches; try alternate spellings or use the location and report number.
• Supplements: Diagrams or amendments may post later; ask for all available parts of the report.
• Redactions: Personal data may be removed under privacy rules; this is normal and does not affect your ability to use the report for claims.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you need help obtaining your crash report and understanding what it means for your claim, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Reach out today at (919) 341-7055.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.