How Long Do I Have to Report a Car Accident?

By Eric Rayz – Updated Jul 2, 2026

Whether you’re on your way to work, dropping the kids off at school, or running a few errands, there’s never a good time to get in a car accident. But regardless of who’s at fault, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of immediately after the accident happens.

Of course, if you or your passenger(s) sustain an injury after a car accident, receiving medical treatment should be the priority. But you may also wonder how long you have to report a car accident, especially if you seek compensation for your injuries.

In some situations, you may wonder if reporting a car accident is necessary or how long you have to file a lawsuit if you weren’t at fault. When you need a car accident lawyer in Philadelphia, count on Kalikhman & Rayz, to provide personalized attention during the entire legal process.

Should I Report a Car Accident?

You may not want to report a car accident, but contacting law enforcement and EMTs should be your priority after a car crash. Even if you don’t have an injury after a car accident, you should contact law enforcement so they can file a police report. You may also want to get checked out by medical professionals, even if you don’t feel like you have an accident injury.

Additionally, reporting a car accident is necessary for filing a claim with your insurance company. As such, you should keep your insurance company’s contact information handy in case of an accident. In most instances, the drivers involved in the incident call 911 and wait until a police officer arrives and submits a report.

If you’re involved with another driver who doesn’t have car insurance or flees the scene, you’ll need a police report. In addition, you’ll need this report to file a claim if you’re entitled to uninsured motorist benefits.

"The outcome of a case often comes down to preparation. We build every claim as if it may go to trial."

Eric Rayz, Founding Partner

What If the Police Don’t Show Up at My Car Accident?

Occasionally, law enforcement officers don’t show up at the scene of an auto accident. They don’t arrive because it’s a minor accident or the people involved aren’t able to call the police.

If you end up in this situation, you must file an accident report with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation within five days of the incident. Failure to file a report within this timeframe may result in your driver’s license suspension.

How Long Do I Have to Report a Car Accident in PA?

Pennsylvania allows you five days to report a car accident — meaning within five days after it occurred. However, we recommend contacting the police to file a report while you’re still on the scene.

As long as you don’t suffer a personal injury, reporting an accident should be your first step. Your primary concern should be your health when you have an injury after a car accident, especially a life-threatening injury.

Many insurance companies require their policyholders to file a claim within a specific period after the incident. Each policy’s statute of limitations is unique, so contact your insurance agent for more information. The longer you wait to file, the higher the chance you’ve passed the statute of limitations.

Put a Team on Your Side That Fights to Win

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Kalikhman & Rayz Are Ready to Help You

Reporting a car accident is the first step in reaching a proper resolution, especially if you have property damage or a personal injury. Whether you have a severe injury after a car accident, a work injury, or are a victim of medical malpractice, we’re here to help you.

If you’re looking for a DUI defense lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding suburbs, we know DUI law and can help you get past this situation. We understand how difficult it can be for DUI offenders to face the consequences of their actions. Even if it’s only your first DUI offense, seeking legal consultation is essential for representing yourself properly.

About

Eric Rayz

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