In Virginia, you generally need to report a car accident to the police if it meets certain criteria. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you are required to report an accident to law enforcement if:
1. The accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500. This threshold is used as a guideline, and the specific dollar amount may change over time, so it's a good idea to check the current threshold with the DMV or local authorities.
2. If there is any injury or death involved, it's especially important to contact the police immediately. They will assess the situation, provide assistance to those injured, and create an official accident report.
3. If the accident involves a hit-and-run situation, you should report it to the police regardless of the extent of the damage or injuries.
4. If the accident involves a commercial vehicle, like a truck or bus, you should report it to the police.
5. If a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you should report the accident to the police.
It's generally a good practice to call the police for any accident that involves injuries or significant property damage, as they can help ensure that all parties involved are safe and gather the necessary information for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Keep in mind that specific reporting requirements and procedures may change over time, so it's important to consult the latest information from the Virginia DMV or local law enforcement agencies to ensure you are following the most up-to-date regulations.
If you have questions about your case or about an accident, feel free to call me for a free consultation at 757-454-2110.