What to Do If the Police Fail to File a Report Regarding an Accident

Some states allow drivers up to 30 days to submit accident reports.

In certain states, police do not need to file accident reports as it is the drivers' responsibility. Each state has different rules, so drivers should contact their local police departments to ensure any required paperwork has been submitted by the deadline.

Colorado

The State of Colorado Motor Vehicle Division allows residents to submit an accident report online. Accidents must be reported to law enforcement immediately, although residents can choose to file their own accident report online. In this case, no official police report will be filed.

Arkansas

Arkansas state law requires every driver involved in an accident that causes at least $1,000 in damages or at least one fatality to file an accident report. The report must be filed within 30 days of the incident. Drivers must provide proof of insurance that meets Arkansas minimum insurance laws.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire law states that either the police or the drivers involved can file an accident report. If the police are called to the scene of an accident, they can file the report and the drivers do not need to file anything additional. If police are not called, both drivers must submit an accident report within 15 days.

References

• Colorado State Patrol: Colorado Online Accident Report
• State of Arkansas: Arkansas Motor Vehicle Accident Report
• City of Manchester: Traffic Unit