After a car accident, one of the first things you may need is a copy of the police accident report. These reports provide a detailed account of the crash and are helpful for insurance claims, legal matters, or simply keeping a record of what happened. Obtaining your report in Georgia can be done online, by mail, or in person, depending on the agency involved. Knowing the process ahead of time can save time and reduce stress.
Why Police Accident Reports Are Important
Police accident reports document the details of a crash from law enforcement’s perspective. They are not a final determination of fault, but they include important information such as the date, time, location, parties involved, vehicle details, citations, and a written description of the collision. Having this report can help support insurance claims, provide evidence for personal injury cases, and clarify discrepancies in how the accident occurred.
Information You Will Need to Access Your Report
Before requesting your accident report, make sure you have the following details ready:
- Your full name and contact information
- The names of all parties involved in the accident
- The crash report number or incident number, if available
- The Georgia county or city where the accident occurred
- The date of the accident
- Any other records you may need, such as accident photos
Having all this information on hand helps speed up your request, whether you are obtaining the report online or by mail.
Getting Your Accident Report Online Using BuyCrash
BuyCrash is an online database that allows the public to quickly access police accident reports in Georgia. Reports are typically available three to five business days after the crash.
To get your report through BuyCrash:
- Go to the BuyCrash website and select the state and jurisdiction where your accident occurred. Jurisdictions may include city police departments, county sheriffs, or Georgia Department of Public Safety offices. Contact BuyCrash support if you are unsure.
- Enter the required information: your last name, date of the incident, and either the report number, VIN, or driver’s license number.
- Pay the fee, usually around $5, using a credit or debit card.
- Download your report immediately or have it sent via email.
Online requests are the fastest way to get your report, especially if you need a digital copy for insurance or legal purposes.
Getting Your Georgia DOT Accident Report
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) handles accident reports for incidents on state-owned roadways and highways. You can request these reports online or by mail.
Requesting Online
- Visit the GDOT website and access the BuyCrash portal.
- Enter the accident details, including the date, location, and names of all parties involved.
- Pay the $5 fee online with a credit or debit card.
- Download your accident report once the request is processed.
Requesting by Mail
- Download and complete the GDOT request form.
- Include the $5 fee via money order or cashier’s check. Certified copies carry an additional $2 fee. Personal checks are not accepted.
- Mail the form and payment to 935 United Avenue SE, Building 24, Atlanta, GA 30316.
- Expect delivery in about two weeks.
Getting a Georgia DPS Accident Report
Some accidents in Georgia are investigated by the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GA DPS), including the Georgia State Patrol. If GA DPS handled your case, you can request the report online or by mail.
Requesting Online
- Visit the GA DPS website and locate the accident report request section.
- Fill out the online form with the accident date, location, and names of the parties involved. Include the incident number if available.
- Pay the $5 fee using a credit or debit card.
- Submit your request and download the report once processed.
Requesting by Mail
- Download the open records request form from the GA DPS website.
- Complete the form and include a $5 payment via cashier’s check.
- Mail the request to Open Records Unit, P.O. Box 1456, Atlanta, GA 30371.
- Wait for delivery, which may take up to two weeks.
Requesting Reports Directly From the Police Department
You can also obtain your report from the police department that responded to the crash. Many agencies provide online request portals, while others allow in-person or email requests. Examples include:
- Atlanta Police Department: Online request or in-person at 141 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
- Dekalb County Police Department: Email dkpdprecords@dekalbcountyga.gov or in-person at 1960 W. Exchange Place, Tucker, GA 30084
- Gwinnett County Police Department: Call 770-513-5000 or visit 770 Hi Hope Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044
- Roswell Police Department: Access reports online at roswellpolicega.policetocitizen.com
Review your report carefully. Mistakes can happen, and in some cases, errors may affect who is listed at fault. Consider consulting a personal injury attorney if you notice discrepancies.
What Information Is Included in a Georgia Police Accident Report
These reports typically include:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Personal information of all parties involved
- Vehicle details such as make, model, year, and license plate number
- Diagrams of the accident scene
- Narrative description of the collision and contributing factors
- Traffic citations issued
- Preliminary information about injuries sustained
These reports provide a starting point for understanding the crash, but they do not replace medical documentation or more detailed investigations.
Tips for Accessing Your Report Quickly
- Collect all required information before submitting your request.
- Choose online requests for immediate access to digital copies.
- Check accepted payment methods for each agency.
- Contact the agency directly or seek legal support if you encounter difficulties.
How Long It Takes To Receive a Report
Timeframes depend on the method used:
- Online requests: Usually available immediately after payment
- Mail requests: Typically take up to two weeks
Having your report on hand can support insurance claims, provide evidence for legal matters, and help clarify details of the accident.
Getting Legal Help After a Georgia Car Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, obtaining your accident report is the first step in protecting your rights. Reports from police, GDOT, and GA DPS can help attorneys evaluate your case and pursue fair compensation for injuries or damages. Legal guidance can also help resolve disputes with insurance companies and ensure your documentation is complete.
Next Steps
To secure your police accident report quickly and accurately, consider gathering all required details, choosing the fastest request method, and keeping a copy for your records. If you need assistance with your report or with a personal injury claim, you can contact a legal professional to ensure your rights are protected.
Call B’Ivory LaMarr Trial Lawyers at (877) 438-7243 to get help obtaining your police accident report and to discuss your legal options after a Georgia car accident.