Who can get the report
The public may buy a Rhode Island crash report once it is approved for public release. Reports on fatal crashes and crashes still under investigation are withheld.
Where to request it
- Rhode Island State Police: buy the report online through LexisNexis BuyCrash, or mail a check with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the State Police Accident Bureau in North Scituate. Fatal crash reports and reports under investigation go through the Accident Bureau.
- Providence Police Department: reports are sold through LexisNexis Police Reports to involved parties and commercial account holders, or through Records at 401-243-6416.
- Warwick Police Department: reports are sold through BuyCrash.
What you need
- The driver's name
- The date of the crash
- The report number
Fees and timing
By mail, the State Police charge $15, the fee set by RIGL 42-28-37. Online through BuyCrash it is about $20, the figure the Warwick Police Department gives. Reports are available 72 hours after they are taken.
If the report is not filed yet
Wait 72 hours after the report is taken and search again. For a fatal crash or one still under investigation, contact the State Police Accident Bureau.