If you have been in a car accident in Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, you should plan on filing a car accident report with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department. In doing so, you’ll create an official record of the incident, which may prove crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings that happen. A police accident report also helps establish the facts of the accident, including the involved parties, damages, and any witnesses, reducing disputes over what occurred. Additionally, reporting the car accident shortly after it occurs will allow you to stay in compliance with Georgia state laws, which mandate that accidents resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage must be reported to the police.
Reporting the Accident to the Police
You should contact the Athens-Clarke County Police Department immediately after a car accident, even if you aren’t sure if anyone has been badly injured. Reporting the accident while still at the scene will let law enforcement agents document the incident accurately, assist with any injuries, direct traffic away from the scene, and create an official accident report. This same report will be important for insurance claims and any legal actions that may follow, so you’ll want to keep track of it.
To reach the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (East Precinct) directly, you’ll want to dial 706-613-3888. If someone has been injured or you can’t remember who to call, just dial 911.
When the police arrive, you should:
- Cooperate with officers: Follow their instructions and remain calm.
- Provide accurate information: Share your account of the incident truthfully, including personal identification and insurance details.
- Note the officer's name and badge number: Record these details for future reference and to obtain a copy of the accident report.
- Expect to answer questions: Be prepared to describe the events leading up to the accident and any contributing factors.
- Document evidence: The officers may take photographs and measurements to support the report.
- Receive instructions: Officers will guide you on the next steps, such as how to file a formal report or request a copy of the accident documentation.
Evidence That Can Help the Police Report
To help form a better police report after a car accident, you can gather the following evidence:
- Photographs: Capture images of vehicle damage, license plates, the overall scene, traffic signs, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Witness statements: Obtain contact information and statements from any bystanders or other drivers who witnessed the accident.
- Personal notes: Write down your own recollection of the accident, including the sequence of events, weather conditions, time of day, and any other relevant details.
Requesting a Copy of the Accident Report
If an accident report was made at the crash site and you haven't received a copy yet, you can request one to add to your records. The Athens-Clarke County Police Department allows you to request a copy of the accident report online, in person, or by mail.
You can visit https://www.accgov.com/10340/Obtain-Accident-Reports to use the official online portal to request an accident report.
Be prepared for associated processing fees and a typical waiting period, which can vary based on the department's workload and specific case details, though. Currently, the filing fee is about $24, and the waiting period can be a few business weeks.
Learn How to Use the Accident Report
Our attorneys from The Law Office of Joshua W. Branch, LLC in Athens, Georgia can ease the process of filing or requesting a car accident report after a crash. Let us act on your behalf from start to finish, including taking care of the initial report filing, obtaining copies of the accident report from the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and utilizing these reports to support your case. Our experience in all matters related to car accident claims can be your benefit while you pursue justice and compensation.
Dial (706) 760-9220 or contact us online for more information about how we can help you handle a car accident claim in Athens-Clarke County, Georgia.