Do u need a police report when you have a small car accident?

Question

i got into a small car accident (my fault) here in ny and the guy just got my insurance card n plate number, we didnt call the police. Can he still process the claim to the insurance with out a police report. do u really need one. because if you do need it its good on my side now he cant do anything? or can he go on his own to file one at the police any other time?

Answer 1

Usually (depends on the state of course) the police will not write a report on accidents with less than like 1000 dollars worth of damage. The guy can still file an insurance claim even without a police report. If the guy wanted to get a police report he couldnt make one without both vehicles being at the scene of the accident together.

Answer 2

In my state, it didn't used to be that way.  I got screwed that way.  He didn't even get my insurance info.  Just must have copied down my license plate number when I didn't know about it.  I rear ended him, and no damage was done.  I got a call a few weeks later saying I did something like $500 worth of damage from my insurance company.  He can and likely will do something similar to you.

I learned my lesson to call the cops even if I am the one at fault,

Edit:"do u think the other guy can lie and say something and if he does do the insurance call me and notify?"

Yes, he can, and probably will, lie, and you'll be screwed.  And your insurance will notify you that they are covering his claim and will raise your rates for reimbursement, like they did with me.

Answer 3

you should  

Answer 4

It is always best to get the police involved and file a report to ensure all information is accurate and nothing gets taken to court.

Answer 5

I would get one no matter what to be on the safe side.

Answer 6

You should ALWAYS file an accident report no matter how minor the damage is.

Answer 7

it would be best to get one!!  To be on the safe side!

Answer 8

If it's a minor accident, depending on your state, you may not be required to notify the local police and file a report with them.  I know in our area (VA), most of the time, if it's a minor accident, with little to no damage, and both vehicles can be safely driven, they'll just tell both parties involved to exchange information and deal with it through the insurance agencies.

Answer 9

Always call the police and file a report. If you don't people turn around and lie, and it is your word against theirs.  

Answer 10

agreed, it's best to get a police report. but yes, he can still file insurence w/o it.

Answer 11

I am with it would really be his word against yours. When the insurance company asks him for the police report and he cannot give one then the burden is on him to prove his case,not yours

Answer 12

just remember karma... do the right thing if it's your fault

Answer 13

Nah, I wouldn't worry about it.  Its only your word against his.

What could go wrong?