Can I be in trouble for not reporting an accident to the police?
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Can I be in trouble for not reporting an accident to the police?
I was in a accident today I swerved I to a oncoming cars lane and hit it which had minor damage. We did not call the police we just exchanged information. Do I have to tell my insurance company?
Asked on June 3, 2011 under Accident Law, New York
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
In a minor, non-injury accident, the police frequently don't even take a report. So, not reporting the accident to the police should not present a problem except that a report would have clearly established who was at fault in the accident.
It would be advisable to report the accident to your insurance carrier so that your insurance carrier is informed of the accident. Your insurance carrier should pay for the repairs to the other vehicle. Since you already exchanged information with the other driver, the other driver probably will file a claim with your insurance company to have his/her car repaired.
If the accident is not reported to your insurance company by you or the other driver, you would remain liable for paying for the repairs to the car you hit out of your own pocket. This could be expensive due to the cost of parts and labor just to repair minor damage. Therefore, it would be advisable to have your insurance carrier handle this matter for you.
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