FOIA / Public Records Request Letter (Traffic Crash) Template

FOIA / PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST LETTER (TRAFFIC CRASH) TEMPLATE FAQ

What is a FOIA or public records request letter?

A FOIA/public records request letter is a written request to a government agency asking for copies of public records. Traffic crash records can include the police crash report, 911 calls, dispatch logs, bodycam/dashcam video, photos, and diagrams.

Who should receive the request?

Send it to the agency that created or holds the record, such as the police department, highway patrol, sheriff’s office, city traffic department, or the agency’s public records/FOIA office. If multiple agencies responded, you may need to send separate requests.

What information should you include to locate the records?

Include the crash date/time, location, names of parties (if known), incident/case number, report number, responding agency, and the officer’s name (if known). If you don’t know numbers, provide as much detail as possible.

Can you request video and 911 audio?

Often yes, but releases can be limited by privacy rules, ongoing investigations, or redaction requirements. This template asks for originals plus a redacted version if needed.

Will it cost money and how long does it take?

Agencies may charge copying or media fees and have statutory response timelines. This template asks for a fee estimate and offers to narrow the request if costs are high.

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