Under New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law, if a car accident resulted in injury or death, the drivers are obligated to contact the police and report the accident. It’s generally advised to contact the police immediately after a car accident takes place, even if there don’t appear to be any injuries or any damage to the vehicles. If the other driver has left the accident scene, you can still call the local police department’s non-emergency number or visit a police station.

Additionally, a car accident that results in injury or death or over $1,000 in property damage, must be reported to the New York DMV.