If you get into a car accident in New York State, you will most likely need to report it to the police, the Department of Motor Vehicles, or both. Failing to file a report in time can lead to legal repercussions, including fines or even having your license suspended.
Reporting a car accident is not only important for following the law—it can also help you make an insurance claim or start building a personal injury lawsuit. If you need help filing a report or taking further legal action after a crash, the skilled car accident attorneys with Richmond Vona can help you navigate the process with minimal stress and achieve the best possible results.
When Does a Car Accident Need To Be Reported in New York?
If a car accident causes a personal injury, a death, or more than $1,000 in property damage, New York law requires you to report it in some capacity.
It’s important to report even a seemingly harmless crash. While you might not face legal repercussions for keeping quiet about a minor collision, filing a report can help protect your right to insurance coverage and support future legal action.
Who Do I Need to Report the Accident To?
If the accident resulted in any injuries or fatalities, you must call the police immediately and remain at the scene. If you crashed into an unoccupied vehicle, damaged someone else’s property, or hit a domestic animal, you are legally required to call the police if you can’t find the owner.
Crashes causing $1,000 or more in property damage don’t need to be reported to the police, but they do require you to file a Report of Motor Vehicle Accident, known as form MV-104, with the DMV within 10 days. Accidents involving injuries must be reported to both the police and the DMV. The DMV can suspend your license if you fail to file a crash report on time.
Additionally, New York’s no-fault insurance law requires you to file a notice of claim with your insurance company within 30 days of a car accident. If you wait too long, your insurer can deny coverage for any injuries or damage to your car.
How Do I Report a Car Accident in New York State?
Though you won’t always need to complete each step, doing things in the right order after a car accident in New York can help ensure you’re fully compliant with the law and put yourself in the best position to make successful insurance and legal claims later.
- Ensure your safety and call 911. Move to a safe location, check yourself for any injuries, then check on your passengers and those in the other car. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt or either vehicle is significantly damaged.
- Exchange information with the other driver. Make sure to get their name, insurance details, and contact information.
- Document the scene. Take photos of any injuries or property damage, and write down any observations. Talk with any bystanders to see if they’re willing to provide witness statements. Note any nearby security cameras that may have captured the crash.
- Submit a report to the DMV. Fill out form MV-104 and submit it by mail or at your closest DMV office. You only have 10 days after the crash to turn in the report, so act quickly.
- Notify your insurance company. You have 30 days after a crash to file a notice of claim with your insurer under New York’s no-fault law.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in New York?
It’s best to report any car accident to the proper authorities as soon as possible, but the legal time frame allowed in New York State depends on the details of the crash and who you must notify:
- You must call the police immediately after any car accident that results in an injury or death.
- You must file a crash report with the DMV within 10 days of a car accident that causes an injury, a death, or property damage over $1,000.
- You must submit written notice of your intent to seek no-fault (PIP) benefits to your insurance company within 30 days of the accident, per New York’s insurance regulations. Failing to do so may result in your claim being denied unless you have a valid excuse.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
The best time to call a lawyer after a car accident is as soon as possible. While not all crashes will require legal help, a skilled attorney can help you meet all reporting requirements and go over your next steps. Your lawyer can help you:
- Properly fill out and submit a crash report to the DMV
- Navigate the no-fault insurance system and recover compensation
- Obtain the police report and gather other evidence
- Build a claim and pursue litigation against the other driver if you have a serious injury or more than $50,000 in financial losses from the crash
Contact Richmond Vona for Expert Legal Support After an Accident
Whether you want to file a personal injury lawsuit or just need help dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, the knowledgeable legal team at Richmond Vona is ready to provide convenient, compassionate, and personalized representation. We’re based in upstate New York and have over two decades of experience helping clients like you get the best possible results.
When the unexpected happens, expect Richmond Vona. Contact us online or call 716-500-5678 today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
