If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Georgia, obtaining a police report is a crucial step in building a strong case. But how do you get a police report after an accident and how long does the process take?
In this blog, we will walk you through the important facts you need to know. Our attorneys at Horst Shewmaker are dedicated to helping accident victims secure the maximum compensation. Contact our Alpharetta car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
When to File a Police Report After a Crash
Georgia law requires drivers to report car accidents that result in:
- Injury
- Death
- At least $500 in property damage
In Georgia, failing to file a police report when legally required can result in fines or penalties. Beyond legal requirements, the police report can be pivotal in proving fault and helping you pursue compensation after the crash.
It’s best to call the police after any collision. Injuries may not show symptoms right away, and the full extent of property damage might not be obvious at first glance. Reporting the crash to the police provides an official record, which can be critical for insurance claims and potential legal action. Having the police respond to the accident scene can help protect you if the other driver disputes the facts later.
How the Police Report Helps Your Car Accident Claim
A car accident report is important evidence when filing an insurance claim or if the case escalates to a lawsuit. This personal report serves as an objective, third-party account of what happened at the scene and can help establish the facts of the case.
Insurance companies often rely heavily on police reports to make decisions about fault and compensation. Without a crash report, you may face challenges in proving the facts of the case, and it could make it harder to obtain a fair settlement from the other driver’s insurance company.
If the case goes to court, the police report can strengthen your case against the at-fault driver.
What Information Is on the Police Accident Report?
A police accident report contains vital information, including:
- Date, time, and location of the crash
- Identification of the police officer who responded
- Details about the drivers involved (names, contact information, and driver’s license numbers)
- Descriptions of the vehicles involved (make, model, and year)
- Statements from witnesses
- Diagrams of the accident scene
- Notes about physical injuries or property damage
- The police officer’s assessment of how the crash happened and who may be at fault
How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Report After an Accident?
If you’ve recently been in a car wreck in Georgia, you may be wondering “How soon can I get the police report?” Typically, it takes between 3 to 5 business days for the accident report to be processed and made available by the responding police department.
However, if the crash happened in a more complex scenario—such as involving multiple vehicles, significant property damage, or fatalities—it may take longer for the report to be finalized.
Once the Georgia accident report is processed, you can access it online via BuyCrash.com or request a copy in person at the police station or law enforcement agency that responded. If you’re unsure which agency responded to the accident, we’ll explain how to track down that information below.
How to Obtain a Police Report Online from BuyCrash.com
The quickest way to obtain the police report after a Georgia car accident is by visiting BuyCrash.com. This website allows you to download the accident report as soon as it’s processed, often within a few business days. Here’s how to obtain a police report online:
- Visit BuyCrash.com and select Georgia from the list of states.
- Input the required information, including your driver’s license number, the police report number (if available), and the date of the accident.
- Pay a small fee to download your report.
This is the most convenient option if you want immediate access to your police accident report without having to visit the police department in person.
How to Get a Police Report With an Open Records Request
Georgia has specific laws that allow citizens to access public records, including police reports, through an open records request. If the crash was investigated by the Georgia State Patrol, you can contact a local State Patrol post or the Open Records Unit to request a crash report. If the collision was investigated by another agency, you can submit a form to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
What If You Don’t Know What Law Enforcement Agency Responded to the Crash?
Sometimes, in the aftermath of an accident, you may not know which law enforcement agency responded to the scene.
If you remember where the accident happened, you can contact the nearest local police department and ask if they have a record of the crash. If they don’t, try contacting the closest sheriff’s office and highway patrol post.
You can also search for a police report on BuyCrash.com using the location, date, and VIN number.
Can a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer Help Me Get the Report?
Yes. A Georgia car accident lawyer can be an invaluable resource when it comes to obtaining a police report after a crash. Lawyers are familiar with the process of requesting accident reports from local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments or the Georgia Department of Public Safety, and can navigate any delays or complications in accessing the report.
In addition to filing the necessary paperwork, your lawyer can follow up on the request and ensure that the report contains all the vital information needed for your case. By securing the accident report quickly and efficiently, a car accident lawyer helps build a strong foundation for your claim, making it easier to prove fault and seek compensation.
Contact Our Alpharetta Car Accident Lawyers Today
Obtaining a police report is a critical part of the process after a car accident, but it’s just one step in your journey toward recovery and fair compensation. If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Georgia, the lawyers at Horst Shewmaker, LLC can help you navigate the complexities of filing car accident claims and ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
From gathering necessary evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to discuss your options and start building your case.
