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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-crash-report-dmv

In states like California and New York, a crash must be reported to the DMV if damage reaches about what amount?

About $1,000, or if anyone is hurt.

  1. About $100
  2. About $1,000 ✔
  3. About $10,000

Why: Both states require a DMV report within 10 days when anyone is hurt or killed, or property damage reaches about $1,000. Other states use different amounts, so check yours.

Huh, didn't know that: Telling your insurance company about a crash does not count as reporting it to the DMV.

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References

Answer: About $1,000. Both states require a DMV report within 10 days when anyone is hurt or killed, or property damage reaches about $1,000. Other states use different amounts, so check yours.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Section 10: Financial Responsibility, Insurance Requirements, and Collisions www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/financial-responsibility-insurance-requirements-and-collisions
    you must report it to DMV within 10 days if: The collision caused more than $1,000 in damage to property.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 12: If You Are in a Traffic Crash dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-12-if-you-are-traffic-crash
    You must also report any traffic incident or crash that involves $1000 or more in damage to the property of any one person.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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