what are my rights to getting copies of x-rays & photos?

[meg]

I'm not sure if this is the correct spot on here to ask but here goes... A family member was killed in an auto accident and I need to know if there is any way with out going to court for me to obtain copies of the state police accident photos and the cause of death x-rays that were taken at the hospital? I have seen these items but would like my own copy if there is a way to get them. This is in Pennsylvania.

 

[JETX]

Most obviously, have you asked for them, in writing??

I don't believe that you would have too much problem getting a copy of the State Police photos because they may be public record. Additionally, as a family member, they might make them available to you for the asking. However, there might be some concern regarding possible litigation issues if there is a possibility of the state being blamed.

More of a problem with the x-rays. Primarily, they are considered the property of the hospital, with a secondary ownership issue being to the patient. Since the patient is deceased, the estate might be successful in getting a copy of them. Have the estate ask for a copy. Again, the hospital has probably would have a much greater concern for liability, making this a much harder issue to resolve. This might require the services of an attorney or a court order.

 

[meg]

police photos

Thank you for your reply, however, I have asked for a copy of the police accident photos and was told that they could not give me a copy. I don't think they are public record because they show my deceased sister in her car and I had a hard time just getting them to let me see them. It is very important to me to have a copy of them for personal reasons, I have no interest or for that matter I have no court case against anyone involved, it was her fault. Is there anyone else out there that can help? PLEASE