If You Have an Accident

Accidents happen. When one happens to you, New Jersey requires that you report it if it involves injury, death, or over $500 worth of damage to vehicles or property.

If law enforcement is not called to the accident scene and property damage was the only result, you'll need to send a letter to your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Agency within 10 days of the accident, stating the circumstances and providing as much information as possible.

You'll also need to notify your insurance agent.

What to Do on the Scene

When you have an accident, you need to keep your wits about you. Be sure to exchange information with all parties involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, car tag numbers, vehicle descriptions, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses, get their names and addresses too.

It's a good idea to write down the time and the weather and road conditions at the time of the accident, too.