Weaver Law Injury Attorneys helps people that have been hurt in car accidents in Gainesville. Things can feel overwhelming after a car accident. But it’s still important to gather the right information. One key piece is the police accident report. Even though it may not always be used in court, it can still help a lot with your insurance claim. Our team can walk you through how to use that report and what steps to take next. Contact us for a free consultation.
How Can I Get a Police Report After a Car Accident in Gainesville?
If the Gainesville Police Department responded to your car accident, a report was likely filed–and you have the right to request a copy. This report becomes part of the public record and can be useful as you’re trying to piece together what happened and what you can do to move forward.
To get a copy, contact or visit the Gainesville Police Department’s Records Division:
Gainesville Police Department
701 Queen City Parkway SW
Gainesville, GA 30501
Phone: (770) 535-5275
Keep in mind there may be a small fee (typically 10 cents per page) for the report, so check in advance whether there’s payment required and what methods of payment they’ll accept.
Why Would You Need an Accident Report?
You might be surprised to learn that the police report on car accidents aren’t admissible as evidence in court in many states because they’re considered hearsay, which is due to the fact that the officer making the report didn’t actually witness the accident happen in most cases.
While this is generally true in Georgia, an accident report on a car accident is actually deemed to be admissible as an exception to the O.C.G.A.’s “hearsay” rule, especially when the report includes:
- The officer’s observations at the scene
- Statements from drivers or witnesses
- A diagram or narrative describing how the crash happened
- Citations issued for traffic violations
Insurance companies often rely on this report to decide who’s responsible for covering damages. And while a judge or jury may need more than just the report to determine liability, it can help tell the story and back up your version of events.
What Else Do You Need to Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?
It might be important, but an accident report taken by a police officer in Gainesville isn’t the only thing you need to worry about at the scene of your car accident. Here’s what else you need to do after you call 911 for an ambulance and police:
- Take pictures – If you’re able, use your phone to take pictures of the crash scene. Get shots of the cars, damage, license plates, the road, traffic lights, and anything else that seems important. These photos can help tell your side of the story later.
- Exchange information – Give your name, phone number, insurance details, and license plate number to the other driver, and make sure you get their information, as well. If anyone saw what happened, get their contact information too–witnesses can really help if there’s a dispute.
- Watch what you say – When you talk to police or insurance companies, keep it simple and factual. Don’t admit fault or say you’re fine if you’re not sure. What you say now could be used later to downplay your injuries or shift blame.
- Save everything – Hold on to anything related to the crash—police reports, repair bills, doctor visits, emails, texts, photos. The more you save, the easier it is to prove what happened and what it cost you.
These aren’t just inconveniences; they’re real setbacks that deserve real solutions. That’s where having the right legal team can make all the difference. When you understand your rights and have someone in your corner, it’s easier to move forward with confidence–and get the financial support you need to start putting things back together.
Talk to Weaver Law Firm About Your Gainesville Car Accident
If you were injured in a car accident in Gainesville, an accident report can help you make sense of what happened. That’s why it’s important to get one, but it’s far from the only thing you need. At Weaver Law Injury Attorneys, we help people through every step of the car accident claims process–whether that means dealing with insurance companies or preparing for court if needed. We’ll take the time to understand your situation and build a case aimed at covering what you’ve lost like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income from missed work
- Repair/replacement costs for your car
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
Contact our team today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you figure out what comes next and how to get the support you need to move forward.
