By Christie Nicholson, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq. | Last reviewed June 14, 2024
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If you're driving along the streets of Boston and get into a car accident, you must do certain things to preserve your injury claim. Do you need to report the car crash? If so, how do you do that?
You may also wonder why you should call the police, especially if the auto accident is minor.
Here, we’ll explain the crash report requirements under Massachusetts law. We will also describe how to file your accident report. Finally, we’ll briefly discuss why you must call 911 immediately after the collision.
According to state law, you must report most car accidents to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). This isn’t true for all car accidents. But you should err on the side of caution.
According to Massachusetts General Law Ch. 90, § 26, motorists must report any accident involving the following:
You must file your report with the Massachusetts RMV within five days of the accident, regardless of whether there is a police report. If you fail to meet this deadline, the state may suspend your driver's license.
Remember that you must also file a claim with the insurance company. The RMV will not forward a copy of the report to the insurance adjuster handling your car accident claim.
The following table covers the basics of the commonwealth of Massachusetts car accident reporting, including instructions on filing a car crash report.
State Statutes |
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 § 26 |
|---|---|
When To Report: |
If any of the following occur, you must report an automobile accident to the Massachusetts RMV, even if a police officer has already filed a report:
|
How To File a Car Crash Report in Washington: |
If you’re involved in an accident meeting the above conditions, you must file a Motor Vehicle Crash Operator Report with the Massachusetts RMV. You must also file this report with the local police department where the accident occurred. You must mail a copy to your insurance agent as well. Your report must include:
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Note: State laws are subject to change. It is essential to verify the information by conducting research or consulting a Massachusetts car accident attorney.
Under Massachusetts law, you and the other driver must exchange information at the accident scene. Most people do this while waiting for law enforcement to arrive.
At a minimum, you should exchange the following information with the other party:
You may wonder if you have to report an accident with an unattended vehicle. In short, the answer is yes. You must also try to find the car, truck, or motorcycle owner. If you see them, exchange the above information with them.
If you can’t locate the owner, leave a note with your name, contact information, and a brief description of the accident.
Massachusetts law prohibits leaving the scene of an accident. It also requires you to stay at the scene and aid people with serious injuries. You must also stay at the scene to help anybody who suffered an injury.
If you fail to comply, the state may suspend or revoke your driving privileges.
Do you still have questions about the basics of a Massachusetts car accident report? A legal professional can help you comply with the law and pursue compensation for your injuries.
Visit Findlaw.com’s attorney directory to find a Massachusetts car accident lawyer.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your accident. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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