Make sure you request your accident report from the right Savannah agency
A Savannah crash report contains key details that insurers and attorneys use to determine what happened and who may be responsible. This guide explains why the report matters and provides a step-by-step process for requesting it from the correct agency.
A car accident report (sometimes called a “crash report” or “incident report”) is one of the most important documents you may need after a collision in Savannah. It contains factual, officer-recorded information about the crash and includes details that insurance companies and attorneys rely on when determining fault, evaluating claims, and reconstructing what happened.
Under Georgia law, drivers must report any accident involving injury, death, or at least $500 in property damage. In Savannah, this almost always results in police responding to the scene and completing an official crash report.
Why you may need a Savannah crash report
A crash report can serve several important purposes after an accident:
- Insurance claims: Adjusters use the report to verify what happened and determine liability.
- Legal claims: Attorneys rely on the officer’s narrative, diagrams, and witness information to build a case.
- Documentation of injuries or damage: The report helps establish a timeline and record of events.
- Proof for employers or government agencies: Some employers, schools, and government agencies require an official accident report before they will process certain requests or benefits.
Admissibility of crash reports in Savannah
Crash reports can be extremely helpful for insurance claims and settlement negotiations, but they are typically not admissible as evidence at trial because they are considered hearsay.
Nevertheless, portions of the report may still be used in certain situations. For example, an officer may testify about what they personally observed, and photographs, diagrams, or measurements taken at the scene may be admitted if properly authenticated.
Attorneys often rely on the report during pre-litigation and discovery to identify witnesses, locate physical evidence, and understand the officer’s impressions, even though the full report may not go before a jury.
How to obtain a Savannah accident report
Step 1: Identify which agency handled the crash
Several law enforcement agencies operate in and around Savannah. The agency that responded to your collision will determine where your crash report is filed.
Here is a look at the agencies that may have responded to your accident:
Savannah Police Department (SPD)
Handles crashes occurring within Savannah city limits.
SPD Headquarters: 201 Habersham Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Phone: 912-651-6675
SPD reports are generally available through the BuyCrash system at www.buycrash.com
Chatham County Police Department (CCPD)
Handles collisions outside Savannah city limits but within unincorporated Chatham County.
CCPD Headquarters: 295 Police Memorial Dr., Savannah, GA 31405
Phone: 912-652-6920
Reports are also available at www.buycrash.com
Georgia State Patrol (GSP) – Post 42 Rincon
Responds to crashes on state highways, interstates, or in situations where troopers assist local agencies.
GSP Post 42: 2792 Highway 21 South Rincon, GA 31326
Phone: 912-754-1180
GSP reports are available through BuyCrash or by contacting the Post directly.
If you’re unsure which agency responded, check the exchange form the officer gave you, or call SPD Records and provide your name, date of the crash, and location.
Step 2: Determine whether you are eligible to obtain the report
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72), accident reports are not considered fully public records. Because of this classification, only certain people may obtain them.
You are generally eligible to obtain an accident report if you are:
- A driver, passenger, cyclist, pedestrian, or property owner involved in the crash
- A parent or legal guardian of a minor involved in the crash
- An attorney representing an involved party
- An insurance company for a party in the crash
- Someone with a proven financial or legal interest in the case
If you are not directly involved, the agency may require additional documentation or may simply deny the request.
Step 3: Gather the information you’ll need
Having accurate information handy will make your request easier. Be prepared with the following:
- Date and approximate time of the crash
- Exact location (street, intersection, highway and mile marker, or nearest landmark)
- Names of drivers involved, if known
- Vehicle information (make, model, license plate)
- The crash report number (sometimes called a “case report number”), if provided at the scene
- Identification or proof of involvement (insurance card, driver’s license, attorney representation letter, etc.)
For BuyCrash requests, you will typically need the last name of a party, the date of the accident, and the agency that filed the report or the VIN of one of the vehicles involved.
Step 4: Request the report
There are three main methods to obtain your crash report in the Savannah area:
- Online via BuyCrash
Most Savannah-area agencies upload reports to www.buycrash.com.
Reports usually cost $5-$10. Reports often appear within 3–5 business days after the responding officer files them. - In person
You may visit the records office of the agency that handled the crash:
Savannah Police Department Records
602 East Lathrop Avenue, Savannah, GA 31401
Hours: Monday–Friday
Chatham County Police Department Records
295 Police Memorial Dr., Savannah, GA 31405
Georgia State Patrol Post 42
2792 Highway 21 South, Rincon, GA 31326
Agencies typically charge a small fee, usually around $5 per report. - By mail
Some agencies allow mailed requests. Include your identification, crash details, and payment (check or money order).
Step 5: Wait for processing
If the investigation is complete, your report is usually available within several business days. If the crash involved serious injuries or an ongoing investigation, the report may take longer to finalize. Georgia law allows redaction of certain personal or confidential information before release.
Step 6: Receive and review your report
Your report will be delivered by email (if obtained digitally), by mail, or handed to you at the records office. Review it for accuracy, especially:
- Names and vehicle details
- Diagram and narrative
- Listed contributing factors
- Roadway and weather conditions
If something appears incorrect, notify your insurer or attorney immediately.
See our guide Choosing a personal injury attorney.