When you’re involved in a car accident in Georgia, it’s not just about exchanging insurance information or calling a tow truck. If the damage totals more than $500, the law requires you to report the accident to the authorities. Knowing how to report an accident over $500 in Georgia surprises many drivers, who assume that as long as no one is seriously injured, they can simply settle the matter privately.
However, failing to report such an incident may lead to fines, license suspension, legal consequences, and insurance claim complications. In this blog, we’ll cover Georgia’s accident reporting laws, what qualifies as “$500 in damage,” how to handle reporting, and what steps to take to protect yourself legally.
What Does Georgia Law Say About Reporting Accidents?
Georgia law (O.C.G.A. §40-6-273) clearly states that a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident must notify law enforcement if:
- The accident causes injuries or death.
- There is property damage exceeding $500.
This law enforces a legal obligation to create an official report, typically handled by police officers, county sheriff, or city police department personnel. Reporting creates an official record for your insurance claim and legal protection.
Why $500? Understanding the Threshold
The $500 property damage threshold is relatively low considering modern vehicle damage repair costs. A cracked bumper, broken headlight, or dented panel often surpasses this limit.
Even minor-looking auto accidents may actually involve hidden medical expenses, damage to electronic sensors, or internal parts.
What Happens if You Don’t Report It?
Failing to report an accident with damages over $500 may lead to:
- Criminal misdemeanor offense or even felony charge in some cases
- License suspension or points on your driving record
- Issues with your insurance policy, including outright denial
- Complications with future insurance claims and the claims process
- Accusations of hit-and-run charges if accident scene abandonment is suspected
Neglecting to file an official police report may affect your legal representation and limit financial compensation options later.
Who Do You Report It To?
In Georgia, report to:
- Local police departments, if within city limits
- County sheriff if outside city limits
- Georgia State Patrol on highways
Call 911 to dispatch emergency services and ensure an official documentation process starts.
What Should You Include in the Report?
Police will gather:
- Details of the accident scene, time, and date
- Insurance details, driver licenses, and license plate info
- Statements from drivers, witnesses, and law enforcement officer observations
- Condition of road or weather (road conditions)
- Photographic evidence, Physical evidence, and visible vehicle damage
Can You File a Report Later?
Yes, you can file a crash report later at a police station if officers were not called. Do this within 24 hours. Delayed reports can hurt accident claims and personal injury lawsuits.
Insurance Considerations
Even if you file with your auto insurance provider, you must also submit an accident report to law enforcement. Not doing both can result in:
- Breach of your insurance contract
- Non-renewal of auto insurance policy
- Higher insurance premiums
- Weakened personal injury claims or accident injury claims
What About Fault and Legal Issues?
Georgia follows a comparative negligence law. This means:
- Percentage of fault is assigned to all drivers
- Being the fault driver reduces your claim amount
- The more Physical evidence and medical documentation you have, the better
The accident report helps clarify these legal issues for the court, insurance carriers, or accident attorney.
Common Mistakes That Can Hurt You
- Assuming minor damage doesn’t need reporting
- Not contacting law enforcement after a bad crash
- Failing to collect Medical records or document emotional distress
- Talking to insurance adjusters without legal advice
- Trusting the other driver’s word instead of securing an official police report
Out-of-State Drivers in Georgia
If you’re visiting Georgia and involved in an automobile accident, the $500 law still applies. Out-of-state drivers may face severe consequences for non-reporting, including problems with liability coverage in their home state.
Protecting Your Rights After an Accident
Always:
- Report the accident to police and gather initial assessments
- Seek medical care even for small bodily injury
- Take photos of skid marks, vehicle positioning, and injuries
- Exchange info and contact law enforcement for the official report
- Consult an accident lawyer before dealing with insurance adjusters
How Ted Law Firm Can Help
At Ted Law Firm, we represent accident victims across Georgia in cases involving:
- Accident reporting requirements and police documentation
- Accident settlement negotiations
- Legal representation for injured party dealing with insurance requirements
- Guidance on legal deadline, such as Georgia’s two-year statute
Our team builds strong personal injury cases using official sources, admissible evidence, and sharp knowledge of traffic laws.
About Ted Law Firm
Ted Law Firm serves injury victims throughout Georgia. From auto accidents to wrongful death lawsuit cases, we help clients navigate the claims process, prove liable parties, and secure fair compensation. We support clients through challenging times after crashes involving Underinsured Motorist coverage, experienced car accident lawyer consultations, and more.
We also support clients recovering from heart attack, heart disease, and emotional response challenges that impact recovery and quality of life. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys will guide you through every step and help secure the justice your family deserves. Let Ted Law Firm handle the legal stress while you focus on healing. In addition to Georgia we also proudly help people in Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Athens, Savannah, Warner Robins, and all of Georgia! We advocate for accident victims across South Carolina and Georgia. We fight for fair compensation – even when insurance companies don’t.
