In Georgia, the law generally requires you to notify the police after a car accident, with a few exceptions for minor accidents. Even when not legally required, it is advisable to contact law enforcement to document the incident. For non-emergency situations, you should call the Atlanta Police Department’s non-emergency number at 404-658-6666. However, if the accident involves injuries or significant damage, you should call 911 to ensure immediate assistance.
The Duty to Report an Accident
Georgia law includes the duty to report an accident if it involves the injury or death of any person or property damage over $500. This law carries other closely related obligations:
- Stop immediately near the scene of the accident.
- Provide your name, address, and registration to the other driver or the police.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver.
- Show your driver’s license to the police and the other driver if they ask for it.
- Assist anyone who suffered an injury, including calling 911 if necessary.
- Remain at the scene of the accident until you have fulfilled all of your legal obligations.
Violating this law by leaving the scene of the accident is an offense known as “hit-and-run.” Penalties range from a fine to as long as 15 years in prison, depending on the seriousness of the accident. Typically, hit-and-run results in prison time only in the event of serious injury or death.
You don’t need to call 911 for property damage under $500 or for damage that was not caused by a car accident (e.g., hail, theft, or vandalism).
What to Do If You Hit a Pedestrian, Bicyclist, Parked Car, or Dog in Atlanta, GA
If you hit a pedestrian or bicyclist, you will likely cause injury, which automatically triggers the obligation to call the police.
If you hit a parked car, Georgia law requires you to find the owner or leave a note with your contact details. You must also call 911 if the damage exceeds $500.
If you hit a dog, you are not required to call the police unless vehicle damage exceeds $500. However, it is ethically recommended to notify the dog’s owner or contact the Atlanta Humane Society to help locate the owner.
What If the Damage Looks Superficial But Turns Out to Be Worth More Than $500?
Even seemingly minor car accidents can result in repair costs exceeding $500, particularly when dealing with higher-value vehicles. In some cases, even superficial damage, such as a scratch, can lead to repair bills above the $500 threshold.
Under Georgia law, if you fail to report an accident due to the absence of injuries or fatalities and misjudge the damage as being under $500, you could still face legal consequences. This includes the possibility of being charged with a misdemeanor, which may result in a fine and/or points on your driving record. It is important to accurately assess and report any accident, even if the damage initially seems minor.
Should I Call My Insurance Company After a Minor Accident?
Yes, you should contact your insurance company if you intend to file a claim unless your deductible is equal to or greater than the amount of the claim. Even in cases of minor vehicle damage under $500, your insurer may request a copy of the police report, especially if:
- You are making a third-party claim for economic or non-economic damages against the at-fault driver’s insurance,
- The accident was a hit-and-run,
- Liability is disputed, or
- A rental car was involved.
If a police report is unavailable, the insurance company may accept alternative evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene, eyewitness statements, or official repair estimates.
Do You Have a Personal Injury Claim? Contact a Professional for Assistance
Were you injured in an Atlanta car accident? No matter how serious your accident was, contact Spartan Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers at your earliest convenience to schedule a free initial case consultation with an Atlanta car accident lawyer. Since we charge on a contingency fee basis, you won’t have to pay attorney’s fees unless you win.
