After an automobile accident, most people are a bit confused and frightened. And the last thing on your mind is trying to figure out whether you need to report the accident to law enforcement authorities and what your insurance company requires of you.
Depending on the nature or location of the accident, different law enforcement authorities will get involved, such as the Highway Patrol, city police or the county sheriff’s office. For example, an accident within the city limits will most always be handled by the police.
Regardless of which authority responds, you should always make a report when an auto accident involves injuries and severe damage to any vehicle.
Your insurance company may also require you stay on the scene and report the accident to law enforcement, even in cases where the other driver flees the scene. When to Make a Police Report for a Claim