Accident Help Needed: Do I Have to Report It to the DMV?
Hi everyone, I had an accident tonight where the other driver was clearly at fault. I was going straight through a green light when another driver made a left turn without yielding. Despite my efforts to stop by slamming on the brakes and swerving right, I couldn’t avoid the collision. The other driver apologized and accepted responsibility.
I called the police, but they took about an hour and a half to arrive. The other driver mentioned she needed to get home for her dog, which added to the delay. When the officer finally arrived, he told me that, because New York is a no-fault state, a police report isn’t really necessary. However, I’ve been reading online and it seems that I should file something after all.
I’ve already contacted her insurance to file a claim, but I found the MV-104 form and I’m wondering if it’s necessary to fill that out and send it to the DMV. Also, what should I do next? This is my first accident, and I’m not entirely sure of the steps to take.
My car has significant damage, and it could cost a couple of thousand dollars to fix—or it might even be totaled. Thankfully, I managed to drive it home, but I’m unsure of any underlying damages until a shop assesses it. Should I also contact my own insurance to file a claim?
Thanks for any guidance you can provide! 🙏🏼
I’m sorry to hear about your accident; that sounds really stressful. Since you’re in New York, you typically need to file an MV-104 form with the DMV, especially if there are injuries or significant damage to vehicles involved. It’s a good idea to submit this form as soon as possible, even if the police report isn’t required in your case.
Since you’ve already called and filed a claim against the other driver’s insurance, it would also be wise to contact your own insurance company. They can help you navigate the process and assess any further damage to your vehicle.
Make sure to gather all documentation related to the accident, including photos of the damage, any witness statements, and anything else that might support your claim. Keep track of all communications with insurance companies as well.
If your car is deemed a total loss, your insurer should guide you through that process as well. Just ensure you keep them in the loop about everything. Good luck, and I hope you get everything sorted out quickly!