Step 1: How do you obtain the Salem report?
- Wait for the report to be completed. Under normal circumstances it is available 24 to 48 hours after the officer finishes it (City of Salem (opens in a new tab)).
- Call the records line at (540) 375-3083 and ask for a Records Clerk to confirm that the report is available (City of Salem (opens in a new tab)).
- Go to the Salem Police Department at 36 East Calhoun Street, Salem, VA 24153 (City of Salem (opens in a new tab)).
- Pay the fee of $10 for the service.
- If a State Police trooper investigated instead, request the report through the DMV. See the crash report page.
Only certain people may obtain a report, including those involved, their attorneys and insurers.
| Agency | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salem Police Department, records | (540) 375-3083 | Ask for a Records Clerk |
| Salem Police Department | 36 East Calhoun Street, Salem, VA 24153 | Fee $10 |
Step 2: What medical and insurance steps follow?
- Get medical care. LewisGale Medical Center is listed at 1900 Electric Road, Salem, VA 24153 (CMS (opens in a new tab)).
- Notify police if anyone is hurt. See the steps after a crash.
- Report the crash to your insurer. Keep calls with other insurers to basic facts. See the adjuster protocol.
- Track bills and liens. See medical bills.
Which state rules apply?
Virginia statutes apply in Salem as in the rest of the Commonwealth.
- Fault. Virginia courts apply contributory negligence as a complete bar to recovery. See the contributory negligence page.
- Filing deadline. Personal injury must be filed within two years (Va. Code § 8.01-243 (opens in a new tab)).
- Notice. A claim against a county, city or town needs a written statement filed within six months (Va. Code § 15.2-209 (opens in a new tab)).
Use the claim deadline checker for your dates. For a crash outside the city, see Roanoke County.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Salem Police records number?
The Salem Police records line is (540) 375-3083. The city's police page advises asking for a Records Clerk to confirm that the report is available. The department is at 36 East Calhoun Street, Salem, VA 24153. Reports are normally available 24 to 48 hours after the officer completes them, so call before you visit.
What does a Salem crash report cost?
The Salem Police page states a fee of $10 for the service. Confirm the amount and the accepted payment method with the records office before you go or call, since fees can change. The records office can also confirm whether your report is ready before you make the trip.
When is the report ready?
Under normal circumstances, a crash report is available 24 to 48 hours after the officer completes it, according to the Salem Police page. The completion date can differ from the crash date, so call the records line and ask a Records Clerk to confirm that your report is ready before visiting.
Which lawyers handle Salem crash cases?
The lawyers page lists Roanoke-area firms that handle car accident cases, including offices in Roanoke and Salem, with addresses and phones. Our picks appear first. Verify any attorney's license with the Virginia State Bar before signing a fee agreement, and compare fee terms in writing.
Last reviewed · Reviewed by the Roanoke Crash Lawyer Guide editorial team