How Long Does a Car Accident Stay on a Record in NY?

When you’re involved in a car accident, whether at fault or not, it may be reported to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. In New York, the record stays for three years from the end of the year in which the accident occurred. Consequently, the accident then becomes part of your standard driving record, which can affect your insurance rates and more.

An adverse driving record can impact your car insurance premiums, lead to criminal penalties, and hurt your ability to obtain compensation for injuries from the accident. It also might lead to liability to others involved in your collision.

If you were not to blame, it is critical that you ensure an at-fault accident does not go on your driving record.

Does an Insurance Company Report an Accident to DMV?

In most states, a DMV report is mandatory following an accident you were involved in, regardless of who was at fault. However, the requirement is subject to a property damage or bodily injury threshold.

Further, it is not the insurance company’s responsibility to report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicle. An insurance company will notify the DMV about your activity if your insurance doesn’t meet specific standards.

In New York, drivers must report to the DMV when involved in a collision that results in at least $1,000 of property damage or when someone sustains an injury or dies. Drivers must file their report within 10 days of the accident date or risk driver’s license suspension.

When the police are involved, they will make a DMV report.

Other Ways an Accident Record Can Affect You

Sometimes, accidents on your driving record can affect more than just insurance premiums. For example, if you apply for a job that requires a clean driving record, the employer might not choose not to hire you if you have a history of crashes. The same goes if you wish to begin driving for rideshare companies or want to obtain your commercial driver’s license. This can affect much more than your monthly bills, but your entire livelihood.

Get in Touch With an Experienced New York Car Accident Attorney

If you are in a crash and suffered injuries, it is always wise to consult a car accident lawyer who can advise you of your rights. If someone else was liable for the accident, they should also be liable for your losses. An experienced New York car accident attorney can identify any insurance claims to file and pursue compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and much more.

The Barnes Firm attorneys have over 500 combined years of experience, giving us a competitive edge to represent you in New York. We have obtained settlements and awards for many injured car crash victims, and we will honestly and accurately evaluate your legal options.

Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation. You never pay anything unless we obtain compensation for you.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

“As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years