What are the consequences of not reporting a car accident?

In Massachusetts, not reporting a car accident can have serious consequences. If the accident involves property damage above $1,000 or any injuries, the law requires that an accident report be made with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Failing to do so is a criminal offense. If a person is caught not reporting a car accident, they could be charged with a misdemeanor and face fines of up to $500, as well as a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days. In addition, if an accident is not reported, the insurance companies involved may not have the information they need to make a proper determination of who is at fault and who is responsible for paying for damages. This can result in either person being liable for expenses that they weren’t necessarily responsible for. Not reporting a car accident can also make it difficult for the police to investigate the incident. They need to have as much information as possible in order to determine the best possible outcome. In short, it is important for drivers in Massachusetts to report any and all car accidents they are involved in. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, insurance issues, and a lack of legal protection. It is always best to err on the side of caution and report any accidents immediately.

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