If you’ve been in a car accident in Georgia, an accident report is one of the most critical pieces of evidence you’ll need for insurance claims or legal action. This official third-party record of the incident can help:
- The report often includes the officer’s assessment of who may be at fault.
- The report may list injuries, vehicle damage, and contributing factors like weather or road conditions.
- Insurance companies rely on the report to evaluate claims and determine payouts.
- If you pursue legal action, the accident report is a key piece of evidence supporting your case.
Here’s what else you should know about obtaining an accident report in Tucker. If you or a loved one were hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault, contact our Tucker car accident lawyers at (678) 506-8900.
Georgia’s legal requirements for accident reporting
Under Georgia law, drivers must report accidents to law enforcement if:
- There are injuries or fatalities.
- Property damage exceeds $500.
- A driver leaves the scene without exchanging information or providing aid.
Failing to report an accident may result in legal consequences.
Step-by-step guide: How to obtain an accident report in Georgia
Request the report online
The easiest way to get an accident report in Georgia is through the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) or third-party services like BuyCrash.com. Here’s how:
- Visit BuyCrash.com: This platform allows you to search for and purchase accident reports filed by law enforcement agencies across Georgia.
- Provide required details: You’ll need specific information, such as:
- Date and location of the accident.
- Names of the drivers involved.
- The accident case number (if available).
- Pay a small fee: The cost typically ranges from $5 to $10.
This method is fast and convenient, especially if you cannot visit the local police department in person.
Request the report from the law enforcement agency
You can also obtain the accident report directly from the law enforcement agency that responded to the scene. Here’s what to do:
- Contact the agency: Call or visit the police department, sheriff’s office, or Georgia State Patrol post that handled the accident.
- Provide identifying details: Share key information, including the names of the involved parties, the accident’s date and location, and the case number (if known).
- Follow their procedures: Some agencies allow requests by phone or email, while others require an in-person visit.
- Pay applicable fees: Most agencies charge a nominal fee for copies of reports.
Request a copy through your insurance company
If you’ve already reported the accident to your insurer, they may obtain the report on your behalf. While this can save time, it’s always a good idea to request your own copy to ensure you have the full report for your records.
What if you don’t have the accident report case number?
If you don’t know the accident case number, don’t worry. You can still obtain the report by providing alternative details such as:
- The names of the drivers involved.
- The date and location of the accident.
- The vehicle license plate numbers.
Having as much information as possible will help expedite the process.
How long does it take to get an accident report?
In Georgia, accident reports are generally available within 3 to 5 business days after the incident, although this timeline can vary depending on the agency and the complexity of the accident.
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How Fox Injury Law can help
Understanding how to obtain an accident report is just the first step in building a strong case. At Fox Injury Law, we assist clients with every aspect of the claims process, from gathering essential documents like accident reports to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate this process alone. Contact Fox Injury Law today for personalized guidance and dedicated representation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.
