When must you report an accident to the police in Virginia?

In Virginia, you are required to report an accident to the police when there is an injury involved or if property damage exceeds $1,500. This law is in place to ensure that serious incidents receive the necessary legal and safety attention. Reporting to the police allows for documentation of the accident, which can be crucial for insurance claims, determining fault, and providing an official record of the event.

The threshold of $1,500 is significant because it sets a clear guideline for when a situation becomes serious enough to warrant police involvement. Even if no one is injured, significant property damage can lead to disputes about liability or can signal other issues that need to be addressed. Having an official report can help clarify these matters.

In other scenarios, such as minor accidents or those where damage is below this threshold, it may not be required to involve law enforcement, though it can still be a good idea to ensure all parties are protected and that the incident is properly documented.