Garda Incident Number for Irish Car Accident Claims: PULSE, Abstract, and What You Actually Need
Author: Gary Matthews, Principal Solicitor, Law Society of Ireland PC No. S8178 • 3rd Floor, Ormond Building, 31–36 Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin D07 • 01 903 6408 •
Summary: Your insurer asked for a "Garda report." You reported at a station and got a reference number. Is that enough? Here's the reality: the PULSE incident number is the reference created when you report, and you should receive it on the spot. The Garda Abstract is a separate document you request later. You can file your Injuries Resolution Board [1] application immediately using your medical report. Don't wait weeks for the Abstract. This guide explains exactly how the Garda incident number system works for car accident claims in Ireland.
At a glance: Report at any Garda station → get PULSE number immediately → request Garda Abstract later (€60 since 2017, takes weeks) → file IRB without waiting for Abstract. The Abstract won't include third-party contact details (GDPR). Sources: Garda.ie [2]; RTA 1961 s.106 [3].
Contents
What is a PULSE number?
A PULSE number is the unique reference created when you report a collision to An Garda Síochána. PULSE stands for Police Using Leading Systems Effectively. It's the central Garda computer system that logs all incidents across Ireland. When you attend a station and report your accident, the details are entered into PULSE and you're given an incident reference number. This is your "case handle" for everything that follows.
What does a PULSE number look like? PULSE numbers are unique reference codes, commonly in numeric format such as 12345678. Some stations add a year suffix (e.g., 12345678/26). If Gardaí attended the scene, the number appears on any documentation they issued at the time.
The PULSE number links all documentation about your incident: the initial report, any witness information recorded, and eventually the Abstract. Quote this number to insurers, solicitors, and when requesting the Garda Abstract. Unlike older station-specific reference numbers, the PULSE ID can be accessed from any Garda station nationwide. In my view, it's the single most important piece of information to take away from your station visit. See Garda.ie on PULSE [4].
How to get your PULSE number at the station
Under Section 106 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 [3], you must report a collision at any Garda station "as soon as possible." You do NOT need to return to the station nearest the accident, and you do NOT need an appointment. When Gardaí don't attend the scene (common for minor collisions), you need to self-report. Here's what to bring and what to say:
Station visit checklist:
- Photo ID (driver's licence or passport)
- Your vehicle registration number
- Date, time, and exact location of the collision
- Other driver's details (name, reg, insurance if exchanged)
- Any photos from the scene
What to say: "I'd like to report a road traffic collision under Section 106. It happened on [date] at [location]. I need a PULSE incident number for my records." The Garda at the counter will take your statement and enter details into PULSE. Ask for the PULSE number before leaving. Write it down. If they say "the system is slow" or "it will be generated later," get the station name and the Garda member's shoulder number, and call back within 24 hours.
Lost your PULSE number? Contact any Garda station with your name, the date of the collision, and the location. They can search PULSE by these details and retrieve your reference. You may need to verify your identity in person if the request is made by phone.
A common mistake we see is people leaving the station with just a verbal "it's sorted" and no reference number. Without the PULSE number, tracking your file later becomes much harder. See the Garda guidance on collisions [2].
What is a Garda Abstract?
A Garda Abstract is a short official summary of a collision record. It confirms core facts (date, time, location, vehicles involved, and the PULSE reference) but excludes private information like witness statements or third-party contact details due to data protection law. It's not the same as a "police report" you might expect from the UK or US. The Abstract is the document insurers typically request.
You request the Abstract separately from reporting. It costs €60, takes weeks to months to process, and must be requested from the District Superintendent, not just the local station. See the Oireachtas record on fees [5].
Sample request letter: "Dear Superintendent, I request a Garda Abstract for PULSE reference [your number], incident date [date] at [location]. I enclose €60 by postal order. Please post to [your address]. Signed, [your name]."
PULSE number vs Garda Abstract: what's the difference?
| Aspect | PULSE Number | Garda Abstract |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Reference code in Garda system | Short official summary document |
| When created | Immediately when you report | Requested later, takes weeks |
| Cost | Free | €60 standard fee |
| How to get | Ask at station counter | Written request to Superintendent |
| For IRB claim | Provide immediately | Add when available |
| Contains | Just the reference number | Date, time, location, vehicles, PULSE ref |
The PULSE number is your immediate proof of reporting. The Abstract is the formal document released for civil proceedings.
What's included (and excluded) from a Garda Abstract
According to Data Protection Commission guidance [7], the Abstract is NOT a full investigation file. It's a limited summary designed for civil proceedings, and it excludes anything that could identify third parties without their consent.
Typically included: The Abstract confirms date and time of collision, location, vehicles and registration numbers involved, the PULSE incident reference, and names of parties (if recorded).
Typically excluded (under data protection law): Based on GDPR requirements, third-party personal data such as witness statements, contact details, investigation notes, opinion on fault, and the other driver's phone number or address are generally not included.
This is where many people get caught out. They expect to receive the other driver's contact details from the Abstract, but they won't. Under GDPR principles [7], the Gardaí can't release third-party personal data without consent. Collect this information yourself at the scene. If you didn't, you may need to rely on your solicitor's discovery process during litigation.
Fees and processing times
According to Oireachtas records on Garda fees [5], the standard Abstract costs €60 (standardised in January 2017; no subsequent fee updates published). This is NOT refundable if your claim settles or fails, so in most cases it's worth budgeting for this as a claim expense your solicitor can recover as an outlay if you succeed.
| Document | Typical fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garda Abstract | €60 | Standard summary for civil claims |
| Copy of statement | €40 each | Your own statement or witness |
| Scene photographs | €25 first, €5 each after | If available |
| Forensic collision report | €400 | Serious/fatal collisions only |
Fees waived for fatal collision families. Capped at €1,000 for serious injury files. Source: Oireachtas debate 2017 [5].
Processing times: From what we see in practice, Abstract processing typically takes 4–12 weeks, though no official timeframe is published by An Garda Síochána. Times vary significantly by station workload. If a prosecution is pending (dangerous driving charges, for example), the Abstract may be withheld entirely until criminal proceedings conclude, sometimes months or years. In such cases, you can request a "reduced Abstract" for free. This contains only basic insurance details, enough to identify the insurer and proceed with your civil claim while the full Abstract remains unavailable. See Garda press release on documentation [8].
Do you need the Abstract to file your IRB claim?
No. File your Injuries Resolution Board (IRB, formerly PIAB) application immediately with your medical report. The Abstract helps establish facts but is not mandatory to start your claim. Don't delay filing while waiting for paperwork that may take weeks or months.
In practice, the medical report is your anchor document. When the Abstract arrives, add it to your file. Waiting risks your two-year limitation period, especially if the accident happened some time ago. It depends on your circumstances, but a delay of even a few months can create pressure if complications arise. The IRB will proceed with your application while documentary evidence is still being gathered. See the IRB claims process [1].
Limitation reminder: Personal injury claims in Ireland must typically be filed within two years from the accident (or date of knowledge). Waiting months for a Garda Abstract could put you dangerously close to this deadline. Start your IRB process early.
MIBI claims: the 2-day reporting rule
If the other driver was uninsured or untraced (hit-and-run), your claim may involve the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland [9]. The MIBI Agreement requires you to report to Gardaí within two days of the accident, or "as soon as reasonably possible." This is stricter than standard reporting obligations.
Missing this window without good reason can be grounds for MIBI to refuse your claim. The PULSE record's "Date Reported" field is the proof they'll check. If you were hospitalised or otherwise unable to report immediately, document why, but report as soon as you can. See MIBI Agreement clause 3.13 [6].
Since 2024, Gardaí can check insurance status in real-time via the Irish Motor Insurance Database (IMID). In 2024, 18,676 uninsured vehicles were seized, up 67% on 2023. This improved detection helps identify uninsured drivers at the scene, supporting MIBI claims. See MIBI 2024 statistics [10].
Common Questions
Do I need a Garda report to make an insurance claim in Ireland?
Yes for MIBI claims; helpful but not mandatory for standard insured claims. For uninsured or hit-and-run accidents, the Garda report is essential. For insured-driver accidents, it strengthens your claim but your insurer may proceed without it if liability is clear. Always report injuries to Gardaí, get the PULSE number at the station, and request the Abstract for your records.
Why it matters: Insurers use the report to verify facts and identify the other party.
Next step: Garda collision guidance [2] • Citizens Information [11]
How long does a Garda Abstract take to process?
Typically 4–12 weeks based on practical experience, though no official timeframe is published. Processing times vary by station workload. If a prosecution is pending, the full Abstract may be withheld until court proceedings conclude. Request early rather than waiting, follow up after 6 weeks, and ask about a "reduced Abstract" if there's significant delay.
Why it matters: Plan ahead so delays don't stall your claim.
Next step: Garda documentation policy [8]
What if the Gardaí didn't attend my accident?
Self-report at any Garda station. Gardaí often don't attend minor collisions. Your obligation is to report at a station "as soon as possible" under Section 106. This creates the PULSE record just as a roadside report would. Bring ID and collision details, ask for your PULSE number, and keep photos and witness details yourself.
Why it matters: Non-attendance doesn't affect your claim if you self-report promptly.
Next step: RTA 1961 s.106 [3]
Can I get the other driver's contact details from the Abstract?
No, third-party personal data is excluded under GDPR. The Abstract confirms vehicles involved but won't include phone numbers, addresses, or statements from other parties. Collect this at the scene or through legal discovery. Exchange details at the scene, note witness names and numbers, and your solicitor can request further information via discovery if needed.
Why it matters: Relying on the Abstract alone leaves gaps in your evidence.
Next step: DPC on data rights [7]
How much does a Garda Abstract cost?
€60 for the standard Abstract (standardised fee since January 2017). Additional copies of statements cost €40 each. Fees are waived for fatal collision families and capped at €1,000 for serious injury files. Pay by cheque or postal order, address your request to the Superintendent, and include your PULSE number.
Why it matters: Budget for this as a claim expense; your solicitor can recover it as an outlay.
Next step: Oireachtas fee schedule [5]
Do I need the Garda Abstract before filing my IRB claim?
No. File immediately with your medical report. The Abstract helps but isn't mandatory to start. Add it when it arrives. Waiting risks your limitation deadline. Your medical report is the anchor document. File early, add documents later, and remember the two-year limitation applies.
Why it matters: Delays can put your claim at risk if limitation approaches.
Next step: IRB claims process [1]
What's the MIBI 2-day reporting rule?
Report to Gardaí within two days of an accident involving an uninsured or untraced driver. This is a condition of MIBI cover under Agreement clause 3.13. Late reporting without good reason can defeat your claim. Report as soon as possible even if hospitalised later, document reasons for any delay, and remember the PULSE "Date Reported" field is your proof.
Why it matters: MIBI strictly enforces this; don't give them grounds to refuse.
Next step: MIBI Agreement [6] • Uninsured driver claims
Can I use a GDPR Subject Access Request instead of paying for the Abstract?
Not effectively. A SAR only gives you your own data. It won't include third-party details, witness statements, or investigation notes. The result is often too redacted for civil litigation purposes. The paid Abstract is the practical route. A SAR is free but heavily redacted, while the Abstract costs €60 but provides more complete information. Use a SAR only for checking your own data.
Why it matters: Trying to save €60 may leave you without usable evidence.
Next step: DPC on access rights [7]
What if multiple vehicles were involved in the collision?
One PULSE incident number covers the entire collision. All parties involved reference the same number. Each driver or injured person can request their own copy of the Abstract, and each request incurs the €60 fee separately. Quote the shared PULSE number when making your request.
Why it matters: You don't need to track down different reference numbers for different vehicles.
Next step: Garda collision guidance [2]
Can I get my Garda report online?
No. There is no public portal to check your PULSE record or request a Garda Abstract online. You must submit a written request by post to the District Superintendent. You can phone your local station to confirm your report was logged, but the Abstract itself requires a formal written application with payment.
Why it matters: Budget time for postal delays when planning your claim timeline.
Next step: Garda station directory [12] for Superintendent contact details
What to Consider Next
Evidence beyond the Abstract: Your Garda documentation is one piece of the puzzle. Dashcam footage, CCTV, witness statements, and medical records all strengthen your claim. See our evidence hub.
If the other driver fled: Hit-and-run claims have additional requirements including the 30-day MIBI interview. See hit-and-run claims.
Worried about time limits: The two-year limitation period runs from the accident date (or date of knowledge for latent injuries). See limitation periods for car accident claims.
References
All sources accessed January 2026 unless otherwise noted. Irish Statute Book citations are to official published versions.
- Injuries Resolution Board. "Making a claim." injuries.ie (2026).
- An Garda Síochána. "I've been involved in a road traffic collision. What should I do?" garda.ie (2026).
- Road Traffic Act 1961, Section 106. Law Reform Commission Revised Acts.
- An Garda Síochána. "PULSE Data Quality." garda.ie (2026).
- Oireachtas Debates. "Garda Administrative Costs." oireachtas.ie (2017).
- Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland. "MIBI Agreement 2009." mibi.ie (2009).
- Data Protection Commission. "Rights of individuals under GDPR." dataprotection.ie (2026).
- An Garda Síochána. "Road Traffic Collision Documentation." garda.ie (2016).
- Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland. mibi.ie (2026).
- MIBI. "Over 18k vehicles seized for being uninsured in 2024." mibi.ie (2025).
- Citizens Information. "Motor vehicle collisions." citizensinformation.ie (2026).
- An Garda Síochána. "Station Directory." garda.ie (2026).
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different and outcomes vary. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice specific to your situation.
Related guides: Evidence overview • Uninsured driver claims • Dashcam and CCTV • Car accident claims hub
Gary Matthews Solicitors
Medical negligence solicitors, Dublin
We help people every day of the week (weekends and bank holidays included) that have either been injured or harmed as a result of an accident or have suffered from negligence or malpractice.
Contact us at our Dublin office to get started with your claim today
