Car accidents are chaotic. One minute, you’re cruising down the road; the next, you’re pulling over, heart pounding, wondering what just happened. In the flurry of exchanging information, checking for injuries, and assessing damage, one critical question often arises: how long do you have to file a police report after a car accident? The answer depends on the severity of the accident and New York state laws.

In most cases, if there’s injury, death, or property damage over $1,000, New York law requires you to report the accident to the police immediately and file an official report within 10 days. But here’s the catch: insurance companies love to use delays against you. The longer you wait, the harder it is to prove your side of the story. That’s why you should act fast, even if the law gives you time.

At Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., we handle insurance claims and ensure your police report is filed correctly and on time. With over 30 years of experience, we know how to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Let’s break down the specifics so you don’t get caught off guard.

How Long Do You Have to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in New York?

Not every car accident requires a police report, but many do. New York has strict reporting requirements, depending on the situation:

  • Accidents with injuries or fatalities. You must immediately report the accident to the police and remain at the scene. If you leave, you could face hit-and-run charges.
  • Property damage over $1,000. If damage exceeds $1,000, you must file an MV-104 accident report within 10 days. The MV-104 form is New York’s official “Report of Motor Vehicle Accident” that drivers must complete and submit to the DMV. 
  • Unattended vehicle or property damage. If you hit a parked car or other property and can’t find the owner, you must notify the police immediately.
  • Accidents involving government vehicles or public property. There are different rules for accidents with city buses, police cars, or government-owned vehicles. Always report these accidents immediately.

Failing to report when required could lead to fines, license suspension, or criminal charges. Don’t take that risk. At Greenspan & Greenspan, we ensure all accident reports are filed correctly and on time to protect your driving record and legal standing. Our attorneys can also guide you through the insurance claims process, ensuring you have the strongest possible case for compensation.

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident to the Police for Insurance Purposes?

Even if the law doesn’t require a police report, your insurance company might. So, how long do you have to report a car accident to the police? Most insurers demand that accidents be reported within 24-72 hours—especially if you plan to file a claim. Waiting too long could result in a denied claim, a reduced payout, or even policy cancellation.

If another driver was at fault and you plan to pursue a claim, having an official police report strengthens your case. Without one, insurers may argue that you were partially or fully responsible. It’s always better to have a report than to wish you had filed one later.

What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?

New York takes accident reporting seriously. If you fail to file a required MV-104 accident report within 10 days, you could face:

  • A suspended license. The DMV may suspend your driver’s license until you submit the report.
  • Legal penalties. Failure to report accidents involving injury or death can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.
  • Weakened insurance claims. Without an official report, proving fault and securing fair compensation is harder.

In short, missing the deadline could cost you both legally and financially. Don’t let a simple mistake ruin your case. At Greenspan & Greenspan, we help clients navigate accident reporting requirements, ensuring compliance with New York laws to protect their licenses and insurance claims. If you’ve missed a deadline, we can advise on minimizing penalties and fighting for your rights.

How Can Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C. Help?

At Greenspan & Greenspan, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. You’re dealing with injuries, vehicle repairs, and aggressive insurance adjusters who don’t have your best interests at heart. That’s where we come in. Clients and colleges alike respect us for our:

  • Over 30 years of experience helping New York accident victims. Our seasoned attorneys have handled thousands of cases, ensuring clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
  • No recovery, no fee. You don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. Our firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
  • Full-service legal representation. From the moment you contact us, we take over the legal complexities. We handle your property damage claims, medical reimbursements, and accident reports so you can focus on recovery.
  • Proven success. Our firm has secured over $15 million in settlements for clients. We leverage our extensive experience to maximize settlements and courtroom victories.
  • Client-first approach. When you call, we answer. Our commitment to accessibility means you’re never left in the dark about your case.

We offer free case reviews and 24/7 availability to ensure you get the legal support you need. Don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us handle the details.

Don’t Wait, Take Action Now: Contact Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C. Today

If you’ve been in an accident in New York, you don’t have unlimited time to act. How long do you have to file a police report after a car accident? The answer varies, but waiting is never a good strategy. Filing promptly can protect your legal rights, strengthen your insurance claim, and prevent unnecessary legal headaches.

At Greenspan & Greenspan, we’re here to help. Whether you need assistance filing your report, dealing with insurance companies, or pursuing compensation for injuries, our team is ready to fight for you. Contact us for a free case review and take the first step toward justice.