How Long After a Car Accident Can You File a Police Report in NYC?

There is a 10-day window to file a report to the police after a car accident in New York City. You must file a report if people are injured or killed, there is property damage exceeding $1,000, or law enforcement was not previously contacted. Once you get a police report, you can share it with your insurer, which may help you recover full damages for your accident-related losses. 

A car accident lawyer in New York can discuss how to request a police report. They can explain what information you will have to provide to the police. Along with this, your lawyer can help you hold anyone who caused your accident to happen accountable for their actions.  

How do You File a Car Accident Police Report in NYC?

Call the police to request help at the scene of your auto accident. Police officers will come to the scene and speak with you and others involved. They will use the information provided to prepare their report.

If you decide not to report your accident the moment after it happens, you can submit your report online. The New York Police Department (NYPD) Reporting Service is accessible 24/7. Use your computer or mobile device to share information about your accident and report it to the police. 

Those who have concerns or questions about how long they have to file a police report after a car accident or similar topics should seek legal help.

A New York car accident attorney can evaluate your case in depth. They can help you provide information to the police about your accident, get a copy of your report, and use it to prove you are not liable for the incident. 

How Long does it Take to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in New York City?

You may need only a few minutes to file your report. For example, you discuss your auto accident with police officers at the scene. In this situation, you can provide relevant information about your accident to these officers, including:

• Your full name and the names of others involved in the accident
• A description of what happened that resulted in your accident
• Details about your injuries and any property damage you have incurred

As you give police officers information about your accident, resist the urge to assign blame or accept responsibility for it. In terms of how to file a police report in New York City, it is in your best interests to focus on the facts. That way, police officers can accurately report your accident. 

How Long does it Take to Get a Police Report After a Car Accident in NYC?

You should be able to get a copy of your report within 30 days of your car accident. Request your report online. Or ask for your report in person or through the mail via the precinct where your accident occurred. 

A car accident attorney will explain if your police report goes to your insurance automatically. Ultimately, it is your responsibility to request your report. Choosing not to get your report can hurt your chances of securing maximum compensation for your accident-related losses. 

Your report could also help you in a case against a liable motorist. For instance, you are dealing with pain and suffering and other subjective losses due to your accident. Your lawyer can use your report in conjunction with other evidence to build a body of proof that helps you get compensation for these and similar losses from this at-fault party. 

What Will Happen If You do Not File a Police Report Following an Auto Accident in NYC?

You could incur a fine, jail time, and other penalties due to your actions. In addition, a liable motorist could attempt to blame you for the accident. If they succeed, you could be accountable for some or most of their accident-related losses. 

Not getting a police report can impact your auto insurance claim. There are New York state insurance requirements for motorists, and you must have no-fault coverage if you drive a car in New York City. This coverage protects you financially in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. 

Without a police report, your insurer could dispute your claim. This can make it difficult to recover compensation you can use to repair your car, pay your medical bills, and cover other losses. Take the time to file your report immediately following your accident, and you could avoid this issue altogether. 

Our New York City Car Accident Lawyers Fight for Justice for Our Clients

You may wonder how long after a car accident you can file a police report in NYC. As you weigh this and other legal topics, consult with an auto crash lawyer. This gives you access to a legal representative and advocate who puts your best interests front and center. 

Morelli Law Firm has more than 40 years of combined legal experience on our team. Our car accident lawyers will pursue justice and damages on your behalf. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys.