Police reports play a pivotal role in Georgia car accident claims. They provide official documentation of the crash, including key details such as the date, time, and location. They may also have statements from involved parties, witness information, a diagram of the accident scene, and an initial assessment of fault.
Attorneys and insurers can use the details in a police crash report to help them determine which party was at fault. So, if you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, understanding the role of police reports and how to obtain a copy will be essential to building a successful claim.
What Information Can You Find in a Georgia Car Accident Police Report?
After a car crash, even a minor accident, a police officer will file a police report detailing the drivers and other parties involved, the vehicles involved, and how the accident happened. The information in the official police report will be helpful to your personal injury attorney and help determine fault. Typically, the information in a police report includes the following:
- Driver and vehicle details – Officers will record the names, driver’s license numbers, and contact and insurance information of all drivers involved in the motor vehicle accident.
- Witness information – The report should include names, contact information, and statements from anyone who saw the crash or its aftermath, including the names of anyone who performed emergency medical services. Their testimony can provide key details and lend credibility to your claim.
- Crash diagram – The officer will draw a diagram showing vehicle positions and impact points to provide a visual that your attorney and an accident reconstruction professional can use to establish liability.
- Weather and road conditions – Officers can note when weather, such as heavy rain or ice, contributed to the accident. These details in the official record can provide context to help your attorney build your case.
- Citations and violations – The report will list traffic citations issued at the scene. Tickets for speeding or distracted driving can help prove negligence.
- Initial assessment of fault – The responding officer will conclude the report with a description of what they think occurred. The assessment is not conclusive. Still, it can be helpful for your attorney when building your claim.
Do You Need a Police Report to File a Car Accident Insurance Claim or Personal Injury Lawsuit in Georgia?
Georgia law does not require a police report for every car accident claim. However, having one can strengthen your case. Claims require strong evidence, and official documentation from a reputable, unbiased source can provide it.
Even though you may not need a police report to pursue a car accident claim, you may have a legal obligation to file one. Under Georgia law, if the accident results in injury, death, or over $500 in property damage, you must report it to law enforcement or face fines, license suspension, and potentially even jail time.
Legal obligations aside, reporting the crash will protect you from false claims or inaccurate statements by other drivers. Officers collect objective details that can make it more difficult for the at-fault party to dispute your version of events. The bottom line is that you should always call the police.
How Do You Get a Police Crash Report After an Accident in Georgia?
You can obtain a copy of your police report in three different ways:
- Online – Visit the Georgia Department of Transportation website or use the Georgia Open Records portal. Many local police departments also provide online access through third-party vendors.
- In person – Go to the local police department or sheriff’s office that responded to the crash. Bring your case number and driver’s license. You’ll have to pay a processing fee to receive your report.
- By mail – Send a written request to the agency that filed the report. Depending on the agency, you can download a form to complete. You may need to provide identifying details about the accident.
What Do You Do If Parts of the Report are Incorrect?
Mistakes can occur on crash reports, but you can take steps to address them quickly. If you want to correct the report, you should do the following:
- Gather proof – Provide proof that a correction is necessary by collecting documents, photos, videos, and witness statements that show the error.
- Contact the officer – Call or visit the officer who prepared the report. Politely explain the inaccuracy and provide your supporting evidence.
- Submit a supplemental statement – Some police departments allow drivers to attach a written statement to the report describing their version of events and share corroborating evidence.
- Consult an attorney – If the department refuses to change the report, your car accident attorney can protect your rights by clarifying discrepancies when dealing with insurance companies or the court.
How Can a Police Report Influence My Car Accident Injury Claim?
A detailed police report can strongly influence your car accident claim in many ways, including:
- Establishing liability – The report can give key details that demonstrate the other party’s responsibility. For example, if police cite a driver for running a stop sign, that evidence can establish negligence or even recklessness.
- Proving damages – The report may describe vehicle damage and serious injuries, directly linking the accident to the physical and financial harm you’ve endured.
- Strengthening negotiations – Your car accident attorney can lean on a clear, consistent crash report that supports your version of events when negotiating for a fair settlement.
Will a Police Report Be Required for Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim?
If you plan on filing an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim, you will need a police accident report. The report can show how the accident occurred and the other driver’s involvement. Without this documentation, your insurance company may question whether an uninsured driver actually caused your injuries and could deny your claim.
Contact a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer Near You
You don’t have to face the aftermath of a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence on your own. The team at Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., offers compassionate support and aggressive advocacy as you seek justice for your injuries.
For over 30 years, we’ve proudly protected the rights of injured Georgia car accident victims and their families. In that time, we’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients, and they have left us a long list of heartfelt testimonials in return.
Our team knows how to obtain and use police crash reports to build a compelling case for holding the at-fault party accountable. While you focus on your health, we’ll fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today and receive a free consultation.
