How to File an Accident Report in New York

According to Section 605 of the NY Vehicle and Traffic, you must file an accident report within 10 days if you are involved in an accident where there is over $1,000 damage to the property of an individual, personal injury, or death. It may seem overwhelming to do this after an accident, but the timeline is strict. If a driver fails to submit an accident report within 10 days, the DMV can suspend the driver’s license until the report is received.

According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles:

1. If the accident only involved property damage, the driver must file an MV-104 and exchange information with the other driver, including information about your driver’s license, insurance and registration. 
2. If someone is injured or killed, the NY State Vehicle and Traffic Law requires the driver to immediately notify the police and file an MV-104.
3. If the accident involved a parked vehicle, other property is damaged, or a domestic animal is injured, the driver must locate the owner or contact the police.
4. It is a crime to leave the scene of an accident that causes personal injury or death. 

When an accident is reported, it will appear on the driving records of all involved parties. An accident listed on your driving record does not mean you were at fault. According to the DMV, it does not try to determine fault in an accident. 

Once you file your accident report, you can ask the police for a copy or if the police and/or motorists’ reports have already been filed and processed by the DMV, you can download a PDF copy of the report directly from the DMV website.   

Hurt in a Car Accident? Call William Mattar

If you have been injured in a car accident, call William Mattar law offices after you have filed your police report. Our experienced accident injury lawyers can help you through the claim process. Contact us online or call 844-444-4444.