What to do immediately after a car accident in New York

New York imposes strict legal duties on drivers involved in a crash. How you respond in the first hours can determine the strength of any injury or property claim that follows.

Stop, check for injuries and secure the scene

New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 requires every driver to stop immediately after a collision. If any person is injured, call 911 without delay. Where the accident is minor and movement is safe, relocate vehicles away from active traffic lanes. Activate hazard lights and, if available, deploy warning triangles to reduce secondary collision risk. 

Call the police and get the report

Under New York VTL § 600, you must stay at the scene and report the accident to police if anyone is injured or if a parked vehicle is damaged and its owner cannot be found. Request the officer’s badge number and the incident report number before you leave. A police report may support your insurance claim later.

Exchange information with other drivers

New York law requires all drivers involved in a crash to share key details. Collect the following from every driver at the scene:

• Full name and address: Include a phone number if possible.
• Driver’s license number: Note the issuing state.
• Insurance company and policy number: Verify the card matches the driver.
• License plate number and vehicle description: Record the make and model.

If the driver is not the registered owner, get the owner’s information too.

Document the scene and seek medical care

Take photos of all vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs and any visible injuries. Get witness names and contact details before they leave. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not appear until hours or days later. A medical record from that visit can support your claim if symptoms worsen.

File your DMV report and notify your insurer

New York requires you to file a Report of Motor Vehicle Crash (Form MV-104) with the DMV within 10 days if the accident caused a fatality, injury or property damage exceeding $1,000. Failure to file can result in a suspended license. Notify your insurance company promptly as well.  

You may speak with an attorney before making decisions

An attorney can help you understand your options, especially if you were injured or if liability is disputed. An attorney can also evaluate the full value of your claim before you accept any settlement offer.