Should You Report Minor Vehicle Scratches to Traffic Police?
2 Answers
In the case of minor vehicle scratches, you may choose not to report to the police if the damage is minimal. Related information: 1. Overview: So-called minor scratches refer to slight road traffic accidents where the vehicle damage is minor and the vehicle can still move on its own. It is recommended to opt for a quick settlement approach. Even if the other party is not present at the scene, you can leave your contact information, take photos for evidence, and preserve the first-hand scene of the incident. If the damage is not significant, you can directly proceed with an insurance claim. 2. Additional Information: If the involved party chooses to flee the scene and the other driver is not present, you can report the incident to the police afterward. Once the case is accepted, the traffic police will review surveillance footage from the vicinity of the incident. Generally, hit-and-run cases are processed and concluded by the traffic police within three months.
Whether to report a minor scratch to the traffic police depends on the specific situation. Based on over 20 years of driving experience, if it's just a small scratch on the paint or a minor dent on the rearview mirror, and the other driver is unharmed with estimated damages of only a few hundred yuan, there's no need to waste time calling the police. Park safely at the scene, take clear photos documenting the location and license plates, and exchange contact information. Last time I was scratched in a parking lot, we settled privately after a quick chat on WeChat, avoiding the hassle of police paperwork and saving an hour. However, if liability is unclear or there's a dispute—like the other party denies responsibility or the damage is significant (e.g., a broken headlight)—you must report it to protect yourself. Safety reminder: After the incident, move your car to the roadside and turn on hazard lights to avoid blocking traffic and causing bigger issues. Overall, handle minor frictions flexibly to free up police resources for emergencies.
