Immediate steps at the scene
Check for injuries first. Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move vehicles to safety if possible — pull to the shoulder, side street, or parking lot to avoid blocking traffic and prevent secondary collisions on the BQE, Belt Parkway, or other busy roads.
Exchange information with the other driver: name, phone, address, insurance company, policy number, license plate, driver's license number. Photograph driver's licenses and insurance cards. Photograph all damage to both vehicles from multiple angles, including the position of the cars before they're moved.
Police report — when you need one
New York requires a police report (MV-104) for any accident with injuries or vehicle damage over $1,001. For minor fender benders below that threshold, a police report isn't legally required — but it's often worth filing anyway. The report establishes fault, witness statements, and documented timeline.
If the other driver is uncooperative, uninsured, or fleeing, get a police report immediately. NYPD typically responds within 30 minutes to non-injury accidents in NYC.
Contacting your insurance
Contact your insurance carrier within 24 hours. Most carriers prefer claim filing online or via app. You'll need: accident date, time, location, the other driver's information, police report number if any, photos, your description of what happened.
Important: do not admit fault, do not speculate, and do not sign anything from the other driver's insurance company without consulting your own carrier first. Stick to facts.
Choosing your body shop
Under NY Insurance Law §2610, you choose your own body shop. Your insurance company may suggest DRP-network shops; you're not required to use them.
Bring your vehicle for an estimate. Most reputable shops give written, free estimates without obligation. Compare estimates — but watch for shops that lowball to win business and add cost during the repair. A fair, itemized estimate from a shop with a real workmanship warranty is what you want.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to call the police for a minor fender bender?
Not always — only if damage is over $1,001 or anyone is injured. But filing a report establishes documented fault and is often worthwhile.
Should I file an insurance claim?
Get a body shop estimate first. If the cost is below your deductible, paying out-of-pocket may make more financial sense than filing.
What if the other driver is uninsured?
Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies if you have it. File the claim through your own carrier.