How to Report a DUI Accident to an Auto Insurance Company 

Insurance companies are notorious for paying as little as possible on car accident claims and will look for any reason to deny coverage. However, the insurer is often more open to settling an injury claim involving DUI because it wants to avoid a costly trial. Judges and juries have no sympathy toward drivers who engage in reckless behavior, so the odds are stacked against insurance companies arguing that a drunk driver was not at fault. 
Financially, the insurer is typically worse off taking the case to trial because the jury is free to award any amount of punitive damages it sees fit. Depending on the injuries, that could mean paying out millions to the victim or their family. To avoid a large verdict, the insurance company is likely to exhaust the policy to reach a settlement when the victim has suffered serious injuries.  

Yes. Georgia law requires that you report any accident that involves injuries, fatalities, and property damage greater than $500. Most accidents meet these criteria, so it is best to report all accidents just to be on the safe side. Even if you think nobody was injured, injuries sometimes only show up later. Also, if you are mistaken in your belief that the accident does not meet the legal criteria to report, you could be held liable for felony hit and run if you leave the scene. 

Although you should report any car accident, it is especially important to report an accident if DUI is involved. Not only can reporting help bolster your claim if you later decide to file one, but you can also help prevent an intoxicated driver from hurting another person after they leave the scene. Reporting the accident to the police could save someone else’s life.