Some things are relatively easy to handle even if it’s a dreaded chore like laundry. Other tasks can be a little more complicated like filing a car accident report in Georgia. There’s a little more to the process than simply calling 911. Even after you figure out the filing process, you still need to pick up a copy of the accident report, and this can be a whole other process.
Why do you need to know how to file a traffic accident report? Depending on the severity of the accident, it may be the law. Also, if you’re planning on pursuing compensation for your damages, you’re going to need to file an official accident report.
Georgia Law and Accident Reports
You know you’re going to need a copy of your accident report to file a personal injury claim. Your report acts as proof that the accident happened. Without the report, the insurance adjuster can deny your claim. The insurance company may state that since there isn’t an official report, your damages may not be the result of an accident.
Now that you have a better understanding of why an accident report is a vital part of any personal injury claim, it’s time to see what the law says about filing one in Georgia.
The Peach State defines a traffic accident as any collision involving a motor vehicle. The state doesn’t care if the crash involves two vehicles or if it’s a single-car collision. If there are any injuries or fatalities present, the accident must be immediately reported. There aren’t any exceptions to this statute. You must immediately report an accident if property damage exceeds $500.
Since most vehicle wrecks result in more than $500 in damage, it’s safe to presume all car accidents should be reported immediately. If your accident doesn’t meet the above-listed requirements, you can wait up to 10 business days to file a police report. You still have a copy of the report to provide to the insurance company, but you may still run into issues proving your claim.
Evidence is usually lost from the accident scene after a few days, and sometimes a lot sooner. If fault is in question, waiting to file the report can mean you’re assigned more than your fair share of the blame. Georgia follows contributory negligence rules that allow multiple drivers to assume blame for the same accident. Your potential settlement amount will be reduced by your percentage of blame.
The best way of avoiding this issue is to immediately report the accident and wait at the scene until the authorities arrive.
Who Files Your Accident Report?
Chances are, you’re dialing 911 after being involved in an accident. The police show up and take your statement and those of the other involved driver/s. So far, everything’s going along smoothly.
You answer the officer’s questions truthfully without going into a lot of detail. Insurance and contact information are exchanged and the police are releasing everyone from the accident scene.
You’re already planning on making an appointment for a health checkup with a physician and getting ready to call your preferred auto mechanic. You’re taking the necessary steps for starting a personal injury claim, you’re just missing your accident report, and this brings you to the question of who has your accident report and how you get a copy.
Where the accident occurred has a lot with who is holding onto your accident report. Traffic accidents occurring on city roads and streets are usually with the local police department. The highway patrol takes care of vehicle wrecks on freeways. They may also be responsible for responding to car accidents that occur in unincorporated areas.
You can show up in person at your local police precinct or the highway patrol headquarters. However, there’s another way you can get a copy of the accident report without leaving your house. You can get a copy online, all you have to do is print it out.
When Can You Pick Up Your Accident Report?
Most car accident reports are ready in about three to four business days. However, there can be exceptions. Reports on multi-car collisions where injuries are significant or a fatality occurs can take longer to complete. The officers may be waiting on findings from the accident scene investigators.
Be ready to pay a small fee for a copy of the accident report. Don’t worry, this isn’t a huge expense. Typically, it’s only around $10 for your accident report.
What happens if you can’t find your report in the system? Don’t panic, it may not be ready for pickup or it’s incorrectly filed. If using your first and last name doesn’t produce the report, try looking for it by the address of the accident. You may also want to try searching under the responding officer’s name or badge number. You should’ve received this information at the accident scene.
If you still can’t find the accident report, call the police department that has jurisdiction in the area where the incident occurred.
Are There Penalties for Not Filing an Accident Report?
Deciding not to file an accident may be perfectly legal. Remember, not all accidents require reporting. The Peach State kind of leaves it up to drivers to report an accident if damages are less than $500 and there aren’t any injuries or fatalities. However, not reporting the accident can also mean you can’t file a personal injury claim.
What about if property damage is over $500 or someone sustains minor injuries? Failing to report this type of traffic accident can result in hit-and-run charges which can range from a misdemeanor to a second or third-degree felony. You may be facing possible jail time and hefty fines. Regardless of the accident’s severity, it’s always best to file a report.
Don’t Let Potential Compensation Slip Away
Even a minor car accident can result in significant damage. Instead of just moving on with your day, take the time to file a car accident report.
Not only is it required by law in most situations, but it can also protect your right to seek compensation for any injuries or damages that may arise later. Proper documentation ensures you’re covered if unexpected issues come up after the accident.
