Introduction

This article provides general information about Georgia statutes related to vehicle operation and duties following accidents. The information presented consists of direct quotations from Georgia law and does not constitute legal interpretation or advice.

Scenario

A driver backs out of a parking space in a shopping center parking lot on Zebulon Road in Macon, Georgia. While reversing, the driver’s vehicle strikes a legally parked, unoccupied vehicle. The impact causes visible damage to the parked vehicle’s rear bumper. No one is present in or near the parked vehicle at the time of the collision.

Georgia Law

Backing Vehicles

Georgia Code § 40-6-240: “The driver of a vehicle shall not back the same unless such movement can be made with safety and without interfering with other traffic.”

Duty Upon Striking Unattended Vehicle

Georgia Code § 40-6-271(a): “The driver of any vehicle which collides with any other vehicle which is unattended shall immediately stop and shall then and there either locate and notify the operator or owner of such vehicle of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle striking the unattended vehicle or shall leave in a conspicuous place in the vehicle struck a written notice giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle doing the striking.”

Duty to Report Accident

Georgia Code § 40-6-273(a): “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person or property damage to an apparent extent of $500.00 or more shall immediately, by the quickest means of communication, give notice of such accident to the local police department if such accident occurs within a municipality.”

Conclusion

The scenario describes a driver who struck a parked car while reversing in a Macon, Georgia parking lot. Georgia Code § 40-6-240 addresses backing vehicles. Georgia Code § 40-6-271 addresses duties upon striking unattended vehicles. Georgia Code § 40-6-273 addresses accident reporting requirements. These statutes establish the framework for driver responsibilities under Georgia law.

FAQ

Q: What does Georgia Code § 40-6-240 state about backing vehicles? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-240 states: “The driver of a vehicle shall not back the same unless such movement can be made with safety and without interfering with other traffic.”

Q: What are a driver’s duties under Georgia Code § 40-6-271 after hitting an unattended vehicle? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-271(a) requires the driver to “immediately stop” and either “locate and notify the operator or owner” or “leave in a conspicuous place in the vehicle struck a written notice giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle doing the striking.”

Q: When does Georgia law require reporting an accident? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-273(a) requires notice when an accident results in “injury to or death of any person or property damage to an apparent extent of $500.00 or more.”

Q: Where are vehicle operation laws found in the Georgia Code? A: Vehicle operation laws are found in Georgia Code Title 40, Chapter 6.

Q: What information must be provided under Georgia Code § 40-6-271? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-271 requires providing “the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle striking the unattended vehicle.”

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, recommendation, or guidance. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. No actions should be taken based on the content of this article. For any specific legal matter, consult with a qualified and licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Scenario Disclaimer

The scenario described is entirely fictional and intended solely for illustrative purposes. Any resemblance to real persons, events, or situations is purely coincidental.