The short answer
After a car accident in Georgia: get to safety, call 911 if anyone is injured or damage looks like $500 or more (Georgia law requires a report), see a doctor within a day or two, photograph everything, swap insurance information, and avoid giving a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer before getting advice.
Key Georgia facts
- Georgia requires you to report a crash to police if anyone is injured or killed, or property damage appears to be $500 or more (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-273).
- Georgia is an at-fault state: the driver who caused the crash, and their insurer, is responsible for the damages.
- You generally have 2 years to file an injury lawsuit (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) — but claims against a city can require written notice in just 6 months.
At the scene
Move to a safe spot if you can and turn on your hazard lights. Check on everyone involved and call 911 if there are injuries.
Call the police if anyone is injured or the damage looks like it could cost $500 or more to fix — in Georgia that report is required, and it becomes key evidence later.
Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance companies and policy numbers. Take photos of all vehicles, license plates, the road, traffic signs, skid marks and your injuries. Get names and numbers of any witnesses.
Be polite, but don't argue about who caused it or apologize. Georgia reduces what you can recover by your share of fault, so casual comments can be used against you.
The next 72 hours
See a doctor even if you feel okay. Neck, back and head injuries often show up a day or two later, and a gap in treatment is one of the first things an insurance adjuster points to.
Notify your own insurance company that the accident happened. Stick to the facts.
Ask for the police report number. You can usually request the report from the agency that responded.
The weeks after
Keep a folder (or a phone album) with every medical bill, receipt, pharmacy charge, repair estimate and note about work you missed.
Follow your doctor's treatment plan and keep your appointments.
If you have injuries, talk to a personal injury attorney before you sign anything or accept a settlement. Once you accept, you usually can't reopen the claim.
Common questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Georgia?
You must report it if anyone is injured or killed, or if property damage appears to be $500 or more. Since most repairs today cost more than that, calling is usually the safe choice.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine?
Yes. Some injuries take a day or more to show symptoms, and early medical records help document what the accident caused.
This guide is general information about Georgia law as of the date above, not legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different — talk to a licensed Georgia attorney about your specific case. Auto Accident Connection is not a law firm.