Car accidents in New York have strict filing requirements and deadlines. Failure to meet the specific filing criteria could diminish or deny the possibility of obtaining compensation for damages or injuries.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we've seen firsthand the stress accident survivors go through because they don't understand how to file an accident report.
Our goal with this learning resource is to illuminate the process, provide insights into the types of accident reports, and provide guidance on how our car accident lawyers can assist when injuries make things too hard to accomplish on your own.
When Do You Need to File a Car Accident Report in New York?
New York state law requires anyone involved in a car collision to fill out the MV104 accident form if:
- Someone dies
- One party is injured
- Property damage exceeds $1,000
- The accident is a hit-and-run collision
- Damage is sustained to a parked vehicle or domestic animal, AND the owner cannot be found
What Information Must an MV104 Accident Report Contain?
The MV104 accident form requires the information, including:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names and contact information of all drivers involved in the collision
- Vehicle registration numbers and insurance information for all vehicles involved
- Description of any injuries sustained by drivers or passengers
- Description of property damage caused by the accident, including photographs, if possible
- Any witness statements or contact information for witnesses present at the scene
You must honestly and truthfully report all information related to the accident on the form.
How Do I Get Form MV104 After a Car Accident in New York?
There are a few different ways to obtain a copy of MV104, including:
- Visit the NY DMV in person and request a paper copy
- Download the PDF from the NY DMV website and submit it in person, online, or by mail
- Request a copy from the police officer who responded to the scene
- Obtain a new form by visiting an NYPD precinct in your area
As soon as you have the form, don't delay filing it out and sending it to the DMV.
How Do I Get a Copy of My New York Car Accident Report?
How you obtain a copy of the accident report depends on whether the DMV has processed the form and uploaded it into its system.
Typically, the DMV takes some time to process and upload the report. After that time, you can obtain a copy in the following ways:
- Online through the NY DMV website
- By mail upon request using form MV198C
- In person at a local DMV office
If you need a copy before it is processed through the DMV, you will generally need to contact the precinct that responded to the accident directly or work with an attorney who can obtain a copy for you.
How Much Does MV104 Cost?
There is no cost for obtaining or filing the form. However, if you need a copy of it for your records, you will pay fees for:
- Searching the DMV website for your accident report. This fee can range from $7 to $10.
- A completed electronic or physical copy. This is a set $15 fee per report.
Before you commit to paid searches, the NY DMV site has a limited free search that allows you to check if they have your report on file.
Why Is Filing an Accident Report Important?
Filing an accident report is crucial for several reasons:
- It serves as a record of the details and facts surrounding the accident
- It can help establish liability and determine fault in case of legal action
- It ensures that all parties involved are held accountable for their actions
- It helps facilitate communication between insurance companies and legal representatives
- It provides documentation for any potential future claims or lawsuits regarding the accident
Whether you are filing a claim with your insurance company or seeking compensation through legal channels, the accident report will be evidence supporting your case.
Learn more: How Long do You Have to Report a Car Accident?
Obstacles to Filing and Obtaining an Accident Report in New York
Filing an accident report and obtaining a copy is not always straightforward. There are a few obstacles that can arise, including:
- Severe injuries that prevent the involved parties from filing a report in the designated time frame
- Difficulty obtaining contact information or witness statements for all parties involved
- Conflicting narratives that may not accurately reflect what happened
Fortunately, these obstacles are easily navigated with the help of a knowledgeable NYC car accident injury attorney. They can assist in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and ensuring all necessary steps are taken to file and obtain the accident report.
Injured in a Motor Vehicle Accident? Contact William Mattar Law Offices for Professional Legal Assistance
At William Mattar, we know how difficult it can be for injured parties to navigate the legal process while recovering from an accident. That's why our experienced car accident lawyers are here to help guide you.
If you've been involved in a motor vehicle accident, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation and discuss your options for filing an accident report and seeking compensation.