How to Report an Accident in Maryland

By definition, a traffic accident, in Maryland or anywhere else, remains something unplanned, and often it can be ugly. Traffic accidents should be reported to the police, insurance companies and the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles. Following these steps can lead to a speedier resolution and recovery from unfortunate circumstances.

Things You'll Need

• Paper & pen
• Vehicle registration & insurance information
• Maryland DMV report form

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Instructions

• 1

  Call the police in case of a traffic accident of any type. You need to have an authority not involved in the conflict to record the facts of the case. In the event of a collision with another car, write down the license number and attempt to exchange car registration and insurance information while awaiting the arrival of police. However, do not accuse, berate or admit liability to the other driver. Jot down witness contact information, if any.

• 2

  Write down the name of the police officer who assesses the damage at the scene. If you have a police report number at that time, write it down too.

• 3

  Create your own notes about the accident

  Record all you remember about the accident immediately when you return home. Then call both your auto insurance agent and the other driver's insurance company to report the accident.

• 4

  Complete Maryland's DMV form within a week if serious injuries, fatalities or more than $750 worth of damage occurred. You or a legal representative must complete this form, which can be obtained from Maryland's Department of Motor Vehicles.