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Preserving Evidence After A Car Crash In Indianapolis

The first 72 hours after a car accident are crucial. Protecting key records can mean the difference between a strong case and one that falls apart. Many of the most valuable pieces of evidence, such as crash reports, 911 audio, body or dashcam video and traffic camera footage, are only available for a limited time. During this period, working with an experienced injury attorney is critical.

At Ladendorf Fregiato & Bigler we are a local personal injury team that helps  ensure injury victims in Indianapolis are not left in the dark. Our attorneys understand the urgency and stress that follow a crash, and we provide decisive guidance when time is short. Whether you need an Indianapolis crash report, a Marion County crash report or statewide records, our lawyers know how to move fast to protect your rights.

Step-By-Step: How To Request Records After A Crash

In Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, several types of records may be available through a public records request under the Indiana Access to Public Records Act (APRA). Acting quickly helps ensure nothing is lost.

  • IMPD crash report or Indianapolis crash report: A collision report documents the facts of the incident. These can be found at BuyCrash.com or requested in person by visiting the IMPD office at the below address:50 N. Alabama St., E100
    Indianapolis, IN 46204You will need to provide the date, time, and location of the accident, and if possible, the investigating officer’s name. See indy.gov for more information.
  • Marion County crash report: These reports are needed when county officers respond and also fall under open records laws. You can make a general public records request by using the city-county APRA  (Indiana Access to Public Records Act) request form or mail request here.
  • IMPD body cam or dashcam footage request: Police body cam and dashcam footage can show the immediate response and conditions. Law enforcement video may only be retained briefly, so early requests are vital. Use the APRA request form here.
  • 911 audio request in Indianapolis: CAD logs and recordings can be requested, but retention deadlines are short. These are also available through a public records request.
  • Traffic camera footage in Indianapolis: Often overwritten within days, so subpoenas or fast outreach may be required. A car accident attorney can help you with this.

These records play a part in evidence preservation and support the building of a strong case. Missing a deadline can result in lost footage or reports, which can weaken claims.

Helpful Links to Request Reports & Records After a Crash

  1. Request IMPD or Indianapolis crash reports: City of Indianapolis Public Records portal — Request an Accident Report (Indy.gov)
  2. Request any police or incident report (APRA): Public records request form — Request a Public Record (Indy.gov)
  3. Statewide crash reports (all Indiana agencies): Indiana State Police BuyCrash portal — BuyCrash.com
    Indiana Government
  4. IMPD Records Office: Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department – Headquarters
  5. Marion County Sheriff’s Office reports: Marion County Sheriff’s Department

 

At Ladendorf Fregiato & Bigler, we’ve spent decades making sure evidence doesn’t vanish on Indianapolis families. When insurance companies try to stall or destroy proof, we push back hard and fast, because we’ve seen too many times what happens when that evidence disappears.

Your family’s future is on the line, and we fight like it’s our own.

Our team of attorneys has more than 100 years of combined experience helping injury victims throughout Indiana. We are a family-centered firm that understands the devastating impact an accident can have on the individuals involved. We aim to ease the burden you face after a car accident, help preserve accident-related evidence, and seek compensation to help you move forward.

Call Our Indianapolis Injury Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one were injured in Indianapolis, Marion County or elsewhere in Indiana, Ladendorf Fregiato & Bigler is here to offer reliable, local representation. Call 317-842-5800 for a free consultation.