Not sure how to get an accident report in New York? You’re not alone. The DMV process can feel confusing, and police departments don’t always make things clear. You might not even know which report you need or how to get it quickly.
An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to obtain an accident report for you, so you don’t have to worry about the details. They’ll know which agency to contact and what information to include. This can save you time and prevent delays, especially if you need the report right away for an injury claim.
Why Do I Need a Copy of My New York Accident Report?
You may need a copy of your accident report to file an insurance claim, prove fault, or protect yourself legally after a collision. Insurance companies often review police reports to determine who caused the crash and how to handle claim payouts. If you plan to take legal action, a report can help you prove what happened.
An accident report typically includes key facts about the crash, such as the time, location, and names of the people involved. If police responded, it may also include their notes and observations. Having your own copy allows you to access information directly and makes it easier to deal with the next steps.
How to Obtain an Accident Report in New York
You can get a copy of your accident report through your local police department, on New York’s online DMV system, or by mail. Here’s an overview of how each option works.
At Your Local Police Department
If the police responded to the crash, you can contact the local department that prepared the report. Ask if the report is available and how much it costs (fees may vary by location). Some departments let you pick it up in person, while others may send it by mail or email. Before you call or visit, make sure you have all the relevant details handy, including the date of the crash and the names of the people involved.
Online
Here’s how to get an accident report online through the New York DMV:
- Use the DMV’s site to run a free search by county and crash date, which will bring up a list of available reports.
- If your report shows up, you can run a paid search using a plate, license, or DMV case number. Each search costs $7, and each report costs $15.
- Once you pay, you can download the report as a PDF.
You’ll have seven days to access the PDF before the police report online link expires.
By Mail
If you prefer, you can request a copy of the accident report by mail. Use DMV form MV-198C, and fill out as much information as you can. Include the required payment and send it to the DMV in Albany at:
New York State DMV
MV-198C Processing
6 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12228
Each report requested by mail costs $15 plus a $10 non-refundable search fee.
FAQs About Accident Reports in New York
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions drivers ask about obtaining and using accident reports in New York.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New York Accident Report?
How long it takes for your crash report to be available will depend on how it was filed:
- If the police filed the report electronically – It may be available within 14 days.
- If they filed a paper report – It may take up to 30 days.
- If you filed the report yourself – It could take up to 60 days to appear in the system.
If you visit your local police station or access the report online, you can view it immediately. Otherwise, there will be a wait to receive it.
What Information Is in the Accident Report?
Your New York accident report may include:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Details about the vehicles involved
- Names and contact information of any drivers, passengers, or witnesses
- Insurance policy information for involved drivers
- The responding officer’s observations
- Diagrams of the crash and a description of the scene
- Notes about traffic violations or unsafe conditions
- Any injuries and property damage
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get My Report?
You don’t need a lawyer to request or receive a copy of your accident report. Reports are public and available to anyone involved in the crash. However, if you work with a car accident attorney, they can handle the process so you don’t have to.
What If Police Didn’t Come to the Scene?
If the police didn’t respond to a crash resulting in injury, death, or more than $1,000 in estimated property damage, you must file your own report. New York law requires drivers to file form MV-104 with the DMV within 10 days of the crash in those cases.
You will also need to notify your insurance company right away. If you don’t report the accident, you could face difficulty with related insurance claims and possible license suspension by the DMV.
How Much Does the Police Report Cost?
If you get the report through the DMV’s website, expect to pay $7 for the search and $15 for the report. The report also costs $15 if you order it by mail using form MV-198C, along with a $10 search fee.
Local police departments set their own NY police report fees, so it’s best to contact them directly for details.
Contact the NY Car Accident Lawyers at Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP Today
After you were injured in a NY car crash because of someone else’s negligence, the thought of having to track down an accident report and manage the claims process can be overwhelming. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone.
If you have questions about your crash report or need help with your next steps after an accident, Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP is here for you. We have over 30 years of experience and have recovered millions in verdicts and settlements for New York accident victims.
Clients count on DMB Legal for clear answers, timely support, and real results after New York traffic accidents. Here’s what one recent client of ours had to say:
“Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP is top rate. Their commitment to their clients goes above and beyond. They focus on details and the best for their clients. Choosing them to represent you will not disappoint.” – Deb F.
Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we’ve built a reputation for trustworthiness that keeps clients coming back whenever they need an experienced personal injury lawyer in the Capital District.
