There was a car crash at a busy intersection this weekend. As we drove by, the drivers were just standing around and didn’t seem to know what to do.

You know there’s going to be paperwork, but where do you start?

First and foremost, gather as much correct and complete information as you can at the scene of the accident. Then, depending on where the accident happened and the extent of damages, you may need to file an accident report with the State.

If an accident happens in the State of Washington

In the State of Washington, you must complete a Motor Vehicle Collision Report if the accident causes:

• injury or death
• property damage in excess of $700.00

You can get the Motor Vehicle Collision Report here:

http://www.wsp.wa.gov/publications/forms/345161_Civilian_Motor_Vehicle_Collision_Report_empowered.pdf

The report must be filed within four (4) days of the accident and mailed to the Washington State Patrol. For assistance in completing the Collision Report, view a training module online at: http://www.wsp.wa.gov/publications/collision.htm

If an accident happens in the State of Oregon

In the State of Oregon, you must file an Oregon Accident and Insurance Report if the accident causes:

• Any injury or death
• More than $1,500 damage to your vehicle or any property
• More than $1,500 damage to any vehicle and a vehicle is towed from the accident

The report must be filed directly with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 72 hours (three days) of the accident.

Report forms and detailed instructions are available at police departments, sheriff offices, DMV field offices, and on the State of Oregon DMV Web site at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/driverid/accidentreport.shtml

Who actually files an accident report?

• In the In the State of Washington, you are not required to file a report if a police officer makes an official report. It’s a good idea to collect detailed information for your records, though.

• In the State of Oregon, you must file a report even if a police officer at the scene files a report.

How can I get a copy of the report after it’s filed?

In the State of Washington, you can request a copy of the Collision Report by completing an online form, then printing and mailing it with a $5 fee. For instructions, visit: http://www.wsp.wa.gov/publications/collision.htm

NOTE: Without a signature on the original Vehicle Collision Report, you cannot obtain access to your own report. Only the signed author or his/her attorney can receive a complete copy.

In the State of Oregon, because many records now are confidential under Oregon law 802.220(5). DMV cannot provide you with a copy of your accident report. Be sure to make a complete copy of your report (front and back) for your records.