What is the legal classification of a crash involving total property damage exceeding $1,000?

A crash involving total property damage exceeding $1,000 is classified as a "Reportable Crash" under North Carolina law. This classification is important because it indicates that the damage has reached a threshold where a formal report must be made to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

The significance of the $1,000 limit is rooted in the legal requirements for documenting accidents. When property damage exceeds this amount, it triggers the obligation for law enforcement to investigate the incident, thereby creating a formal record of the event. This can be crucial for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and maintaining accurate traffic incident statistics.

In contrast, classifications like "Minor Accident" or "Fender Bender" do not carry specific legal definitions or reporting requirements. They may refer to less severe incidents but lack the formal implications tied to the total damage threshold. "Major Incident" also suggests a broader definition that may incorporate factors beyond just property damage, such as injuries or fatalities, which are not relevant when simply determining property damage amounts.