Virginia: accident reporting rules
When you must report a car accident to police or the state, the damage threshold, and the deadline.
| Report required if there is | Death or injury |
|---|---|
| Deadline | Immediately |
'Immediately' usually means calling police from the scene. A police report does not always satisfy a separate DMV report. Your insurer also needs prompt notice under your policy.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in Virginia.
Also for Virginia: Car insurance by state in Virginia · Claim deadlines in Virginia · Small claims limits in Virginia · Total loss rules in Virginia · Dog bite rules in Virginia · Shared fault rules in Virginia · Phone-while-driving laws in Virginia · Motorcycle helmet laws in Virginia
How we checked this
Thresholds come from the AAA Digest of Motor Laws as published in a 2026 table, compared with a second insurer table. States where the two differ are marked for review. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.