When to Call the Police After a Minor Collision

Even the most minor car accidents can cause significant stress. You may feel shaken, embarrassed, or eager to move on quickly, especially if the damage seems minor. But deciding whether to call the police after a fender bender isn’t always straightforward.

Many drivers wonder: Is it really necessary to involve law enforcement when no one is hurt? The short answer is yes, in many cases, it is. Reporting the incident can protect you legally, financially, and even physically.

Here’s how to know when to call the police after a minor collision and why taking that step matters more than you might think.

Why It’s Important to Call the Police

Even if a crash seems minor, it can lead to complications later. Some car accident injuries may not appear for hours or days. Vehicle damage might be worse than it looks. And without a police report, proving what actually happened becomes significantly more difficult.

A police officer documents the scene, collects statements, and writes an official report. That report becomes an essential piece of evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action. If the other driver later changes their story or denies responsibility, you’ll have the police report to support your version of events.

When You Must Call the Police

Each state has its own laws regarding the reporting of car accidents, but South Carolina’s are clear. According to state law, you must report an accident to law enforcement if:

Someone is injured or killed
There’s property damage exceeding $1,000
A driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs
A vehicle needs to be towed from the scene
Public property is damaged (for example, a stop sign or guardrail).

Even if you’re unsure whether the damage exceeds $1,000, it’s better to make the call. Police can assess the situation and file the report correctly. Failing to report a qualifying accident can result in penalties, including fines or even license suspension.

When You Should Call the Police (Even If It’s Not Legally Required)

Sometimes an accident doesn’t meet the legal threshold for reporting. Maybe no one’s hurt, and both cars drive away just fine. Still, calling the police can be a smart move.

Here are a few scenarios where it’s best to involve law enforcement:

The other driver seems intoxicated or impaired
The other driver doesn’t have insurance or refuses to share details
You suspect the other driver might leave the scene (hit-and-run risk)
There’s visible damage, but you’re unsure how serious it is
The other driver becomes aggressive or confrontational
The crash happened on private property (like a parking lot), and you want documentation for insurance.

Even if the officer doesn’t issue a full report, having an official record of the call, including a reference number, strengthens your position later.

When You Might Not Need to Call the Police

There are situations where calling law enforcement isn’t strictly necessary. For example:

Both drivers agree there’s only a small scratch or dent.
No one is injured.
Vehicles are drivable.
You’ve exchanged information and feel confident handling it through insurance.

If that’s the case, take these steps to protect yourself:

Exchange details: Get full names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information.
Take photos: Capture the position of vehicles, any visible damage, weather conditions, road conditions, and any skid marks.
Collect witness information: If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact details.
Notify your insurance company promptly: Even if you don’t plan to file a claim immediately, letting them know early can prevent complications.

Still, if there’s any uncertainty about the damage, the other driver’s honesty, or your own injuries, make the call. It’s always safer to have an official record.

What Happens If Police Don’t Respond

In some cases, especially if no one is injured and traffic isn’t blocked, police may not come to the scene. Don’t panic. You can still protect yourself.

Visit the nearest police station or highway patrol office as soon as possible and file a report yourself. Bring all the details you collected, including photos and driver information.

In South Carolina, if officers don’t investigate the crash, you must submit a completed Traffic Collision Report (Form FR-50) to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 15 days.

Protecting Your Rights After a Minor Collision

Even a “minor” accident can have lasting effects: hidden injuries, expensive repairs, and frustrating disputes with insurers. If you’re uncertain about your rights or the following steps, consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can help.

A skilled lawyer can:

Review your case and determine if you’re entitled to compensation
Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
Help you gather evidence and build a strong claim
Make sure deadlines are met, and your rights are protected.

After any collision, your priority is safety. Once everyone’s secure, take a moment to think clearly about what comes next.

The report you file today can prevent major problems tomorrow, and if you need guidance after a crash, contact a personal injury lawyer. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, property damage, or a difficult insurer, the attorney will protect your rights and help you get back on track.