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When involved in a traffic accident in Oregon, it’s crucial to understand the requirements surrounding the Oregon DMV Accident Report form. This form is essential for documenting incidents that meet specific criteria, such as damage exceeding $2,500 to any vehicle or property, injuries, or fatalities. Drivers must file this report within 72 hours of the crash, and failure to do so can lead to suspension of driving privileges. Even if a police report has been filed, individuals are still required to submit their own report to the DMV. The form consists of several sections that gather vital information, including the date, location, and details about the vehicles and drivers involved. It also includes sections for insurance information, which must be accurate to avoid potential penalties. Additionally, if the crash involves a commercial vehicle, a separate form must be filed within 30 days. Completing this report thoroughly is not just a legal obligation; it helps ensure that all parties are properly documented and can assist with any insurance claims that may arise. For those who have questions or need assistance, the DMV provides a dedicated Crash Reporting Unit to help navigate the process.

Form Sample

OREGON TRAFFIC CRASH AND INSURANCE REPORT

Tear this sheet off your report, read and carefully follow the directions.

ONLY drivers involved in a crash resulting in any of the following MUST file a Crash & Insurance Report:

Damage to your vehicle is over $2500

Damage to any one person’s property over $2500

Injury (No matter how minor)

Any vehicle has damage over $2500 and any vehicle is

Death

towed from the scene as a result of damages

Oregon law requires these reports be filed within 72 hours of the crash. If you are not able to file within the 72 hours, submit it as soon as possible. If you fail to report the crash to DMV, it may result in suspension of your driving privileges. If the police department files a police report, you are still required to file your own Crash and Insurance Report with DMV. When required to report, even if you are licensed in another state, or you are not an Oregon resident, you still must file a report with Oregon DMV. DMV does not determine fault in a crash, but does post the crash to the driving record of those drivers required to report, unless the vehicle is parked. If you have questions, please call DMV Crash Reporting Unit at (503) 945-5098.

INSTRUCTIONS

PRINT OR TYPE ALL INFORMATION. (Use black or dark blue ink and press firmly.)

Complete both sides of the form.

If additional vehicles were involved in the crash, complete the attached Supplemental Report (Form 735-32B), or on a blank piece of paper, write all the information as requested in Section 4, the “Other Driver” Section.

DMV Headquarters will verify the insurance information submitted. Complete the insurance section or a suspension of your driving privileges may occur.

SECTION 1

DATE, LOCATION AND TIME — Clearly identify the date, location and time of the crash. The correct date, location and time is critical to processing your report. If you are unsure of the county, contact any local law enforcement agency for assistance.

SECTION 2

Your vehicle is Vehicle #1. Complete ALL fields. Provide Insurance company name (not agent), policy number, and Vehicle identification number (VIN). Failure to provide complete insurance and vehicle information may result in DMV issuing Notice of Suspension due to incomplete information.

SECTION 3

Failure to complete this section may result in DMV sending Notice of Suspension for failure to file a report. Principle purpose of driving and being paid to drive does not mean driving to reach a destination to perform a service. Property: Includes, but is not limited to, fixed or real property, landscaping, signs, parked vehicles, and animals.

COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATORS: In addition to this report, Oregon Administrative Rule requires that Form

735-9229, Motor Carrier Crash Report, MUST be filed within 30 days of a commercial motor vehicle crash when there is a FATALITY, INJURY (requiring treatment away from the scene), or when a vehicle is TOWED from the scene because of disabling damage. Form 735-9229 (attached on back) MUST be submitted with Oregon Traffic Crash and Insurance Report (Form 735-32) to DMV. Call (503) 986-3507 for questions regarding the Motor Carrier Crash Report.

You may now file the Motor Carrier Crash Report at: www.oregontruckingonline.com/cf/MCAD/pubMetaEntry/accidentRpt/

SECTION 4

OTHER VEHICLE (# 2) — Completion of this information will help DMV match all driver's crash reports more efficiently. If additional vehicles were involved in the crash, complete attached Supplemental Report (Form 735-32B).

SECTION 5

DESCRIPTION AND SIGNATURE — Describe what happened. It is important for you to sign and date the form. Only a family member may sign and date this form on behalf of a driver when the driver is incapacitated or physically unable to sign. No other signatures will be accepted.

COMPLETING AND FILING REPORT

HOW TO SUBMIT A REPORT TO DMV:

Email to [email protected]

Fax to 503-945-5267

Mail to DMV Crash Reporting Unit 1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, Oregon 97314

Deliver to a DMV office

Keep a copy of the report and documentation that shows when you submitted your report to Oregon DMV. Under ORS 802.220(5), DMV is not authorized to provide you with a copy of the report that you file. If submitting by:

Email, DMV sends an autoreply that your email was received. Save that autoreply.

Fax, many fax machines provide the option to generate a fax confirmation report. Save that report.

DMV Field Office, request and save that receipt.

PURSUANT TO OREGON INSURANCE LAW, AN INSURANCE COMPANY CAN NOT REQUIRE REPAIRS BE MADE TO A MOTOR VEHICLE BY A PARTICULAR PERSON OR REPAIR SHOP.

735-32 (3-23)

STK# 300009

INSTRUCTIONS

TOTALED VEHICLE NOTICE

DEFINITIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR TOTALED VEHICLES

IF YOUR CRASH HAS RESULTED IN A “TOTALED” VEHICLE, YOU ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO

FOLLOW APPROPRIATE INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS NOTICE.

DEFINITION OF “TOTALED” VEHICLE

“Totaled Vehicle” or “Totaled” as defined in Oregon law (ORS 801.527) means:

A vehicle that is declared a total loss by an insurer who is obligated to cover the loss or a vehicle that the insurer takes possession of or title to.

A vehicle that has sustained damage that is not covered by an insurer and the estimated cost to repair the vehicle is equal to at least 80% of the retail market value prior to the damage. “Retail market value” is defined as the amount shown in publications used by financial institutions (banks or lenders) in this state.

A vehicle that is stolen, if it is not recovered within 30 days of theft and the loss is not covered by an insurer. In this situation, you must notify DMV within 60 days of the theft.

FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS IF YOUR VEHICLE IS TOTALED

If your vehicle is totaled, in addition to completing the crash report, follow the instruction that is applicable to your case. Either:

1.SURRENDER the title to the insurer if the damage is covered by an insurer who declares the vehicle to be a “total loss,” and the insurer takes possession of the vehicle; or

2.SURRENDER the title to DMV and apply for salvage title if the damage is covered by an insurer who declares the vehicle to be a “total loss,” but you keep possession of the vehicle; or

3.SURRENDER the title to DMV and apply for salvage title if the damage was not covered by an insurer and the estimated cost of repair is at least 80% of the retail market value of the vehicle before the damage; or

4.NOTIFY DMV that your vehicle has been totaled if, for some reason, you are unable to obtain the title for surrender. You must provide DMV with a signed statement which includes:

A description of the vehicle which includes the year model, make, plate number and vehicle identification number.

A statement indicating the vehicle has been totaled.

A statement that you are unable to obtain the title and why.

DO NOT SUBMIT THE TITLE WITH THE CRASH REPORT. You can obtain the Application for Salvage Title (Form 735-229) from any DMV office, by calling (503) 945-5000, or on-line at www.oregondmv.com. Application instructions and fee information are on the back of the form 735-229. If you have questions about salvage titles, call (503) 945-5122.

NOTE: It is a Class A misdemeanor with a penalty of imprisonment and/or fine if you fail to comply with the above requirements. (ORS 819.012)

OREGON TRAFFIC CRASH AND INSURANCE REPORT

COMPLETE BOTH SIDES

Print Form

Reset Form

Complete this form if the traffic crash occurred on a highway or premise open to the public and meets at least one of the reporting requirements outlined in Section 3. Failure to report when required may result in DMV issuing Notice of Suspension. Call 503-945-5098 for assistance in completing the report.

SECTION 1

CRASH DATE

DAY OF WEEK TIME OF DAY

 

COUNTY

 

 

 

 

 

DMV USE ONLY

 

 

 

M T W TH F

AM

 

 

 

 

 

CRASH REF # _________________________________ ALIR

INS CO

 

S SN

PM

 

 

 

 

 

ROAD ON WHICH CRASH OCCURRED (Name of street, road or route )

MILE POST

 

TYPE OF CRASH - The crash involved one or more of the following:

(Mark all that apply)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two vehicles

ATV / Snowmobile

Parked vehicle

NAME OF NEAREST INTERSECTING ROAD

WITHIN

FEET

N

S

E

W

More than two vehicles

Motorcycle

Overturned vehicle

Motor Home / RV

 

 

NEAR

MILES

N

S

E

W

Fatality

Animal

 

 

 

Motorized Scooter

 

NAME OF NEAREST CITY / TOWN

WITHIN

FEET

N

S

E

W

Bicycle

Personal (assisted)

Fixed object / property

 

 

NEAR

MILES

N

S

E

W

Pedestrian

mobility device

Other ____________________

 

 

Train

SECTION 2 (YOUR INFORMATION)

Complete ALL fields. Failure to provide complete information may result in DMV issuing Notice of Suspension.

DRIVER’S LAST NAME

FIRST NAME

MIDDLE NAME

DRIVER’S LICENSE NUMBER

STATE DATE OF BIRTH

GENDER

 

 

 

M

F

X

DRIVER’S RESIDENCE ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

CHECK BOX

 

 

 

 

IF ADDRESS

MAILING ADDRESS (IF DIFFERENT THAN RESIDENCE)

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

CHANGE

 

 

VEHICLE OWNER’S NAME AND ADDRESS

 

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

SAME

 

 

 

 

RENTAL?

 

 

 

 

INSURANCE COMPANY NAME (NOT AGENT) AND ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

POLICY NUMBER

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

 

STATE VEHICLE PLATE NUMBER

YEAR MAKE & MODEL

Check all statements that apply:

SECTION 3

Damage to your vehicle was more than $2500.

Damage to any one person’s property (other than vehicle) was more than $2500.

Your vehicle was towed from the scene as a result of damages.

You or passengers in your vehicle were injured.

Collision with a parked vehicle.

The crash occurred while you were driving your employer’s vehicle.

You were driving on your job and being paid for the principal purpose of driving.

You were being paid to drive and/or deliver persons or property.

You were operating a government owned vehicle marked for transporting mail in accordance with government rules. You were operating an authorized emergency vehicle.

The crash occurred in a work or maintenance zone. ORS 811.230

 

 

 

A police officer came to the scene.

City

County

State Police

Name of police department: __________________________

You were operating a commercial motor vehicle requiring you to have a commercial driver license. You were transporting hazardous material.

A citation was issued to you. The citation was: ________________________________________________________

SECTION 4 (OTHER VEHICLE # 2)

DRIVER’S NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

DRIVER’S LICENSE NUMBER

STATE

DATE OF BIRTH

GENDER

 

 

 

 

 

M F X

 

 

 

 

 

 

DRIVER’S ADDRESS

CITY

 

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VEHICLE OWNER’S NAME AND ADDRESS

CITY

 

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

SAME

INSURANCE COMPANY NAME (NOT AGENT) AND ADDRESS

 

POLICY NUMBER

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

STATE VEHICLE PLATE NUMBER YEAR MAKE & MODEL

IF ADDITIONAL VEHICLES WERE INVOLVED IN THE CRASH, USE ATTACHED SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT (Form 735-32B).

DESCRIBE WHAT HAPPENED: (IF MORE SPACE IS NEEDED, SUBMIT ADDITIONAL PAGE)

5

 

 

SECTION

I certify all information given on this report is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

 

 

SIGNATURE OF PERSON MAKING REPORT

PRINTED NAME OF PERSON MAKING REPORT

 

X

REASON DRIVER IS UNABLE TO SIGN REPORT

 

IF NOT DRIVER’S SIGNATURE, STATE RELATIONSHIP

735-32 (3-23) COMPLETE THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS PAGE

DMV COPY

DAYTIME PHONE #

 

DATE SIGNED

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER OF DRIVER

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STK# 300009

Document Specifications

Fact Name Details
Filing Requirement Drivers involved in a crash resulting in damage over $2,500, injury, or death must file a report.
Deadline for Filing Reports must be submitted to the Oregon DMV within 72 hours of the crash.
Consequences of Non-Reporting Failure to report may lead to suspension of driving privileges.
Police Report If a police report is filed, individuals are still required to submit their own Crash and Insurance Report.
Non-Residents Even out-of-state drivers must file a report with the Oregon DMV if involved in a crash.
Fault Determination The DMV does not determine fault in accidents but records the crash on driving records.
Insurance Verification DMV verifies the insurance information provided; incomplete information may lead to suspension.
Commercial Vehicle Reporting Commercial motor vehicle operators must also file Form 735-9229 within 30 days for certain incidents.
Salvage Title for Totaled Vehicles If a vehicle is totaled, specific instructions must be followed regarding title surrender and salvage title applications.
Legal Basis The requirements for the Crash and Insurance Report are governed by Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 802.220 and 819.012.

Steps to Filling Out Oregon Dmv Accident Report

Filling out the Oregon DMV Accident Report form is an essential step after being involved in a traffic crash that meets specific criteria. Completing this form accurately and submitting it promptly helps ensure compliance with state laws and protects your driving privileges. Below are the steps to guide you through the process.

  1. Begin by carefully reading the instructions on the form. Make sure to use black or dark blue ink, and print or type all information clearly.
  2. Fill out Section 1 with the date, location, and time of the crash. Ensure that you provide accurate details, as this information is critical for processing.
  3. In Section 2, provide all required information about your vehicle, including the insurance company name (not the agent), policy number, and vehicle identification number (VIN). Double-check for completeness to avoid any issues.
  4. Complete Section 3 by checking all statements that apply to your situation, such as damage amounts and whether injuries occurred. This section is crucial for determining the need for reporting.
  5. If other vehicles were involved, fill out Section 4 with the required details for each additional driver and vehicle. Use the attached Supplemental Report if necessary.
  6. In Section 5, describe the events of the crash. Be as detailed as possible, and remember to sign and date the form. If you are unable to sign due to incapacity, a family member may do so on your behalf.
  7. Once the form is completed, choose your method of submission: email it to [email protected], fax it to 503-945-5267, mail it to the DMV Crash Reporting Unit, or deliver it to a DMV office in person.
  8. Keep a copy of the report for your records, along with any documentation that shows when you submitted the report. If you submitted by email or fax, save any confirmation you receive.

After submitting the report, it is important to monitor any communications from the DMV. They may reach out for additional information or clarification if needed. Staying proactive and responsive will help ensure that your report is processed smoothly.

More About Oregon Dmv Accident Report

What is the Oregon DMV Accident Report form?

The Oregon DMV Accident Report form is a document that drivers involved in a traffic crash must complete when certain conditions are met. These conditions include damage exceeding $2,500 to any vehicle or property, any injury, or if a vehicle is towed from the scene. This form is essential for reporting the incident to the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and must be submitted within 72 hours of the accident.

Who is required to file the Accident Report?

All drivers involved in a crash that results in damage over $2,500, injury, or towing of a vehicle are required to file the Accident Report. This requirement applies regardless of whether you are an Oregon resident or hold a license from another state. If the police have filed a report, you still need to submit your own report to the DMV.

What happens if I do not file the report within the required timeframe?

If you fail to file the Accident Report within the 72-hour window, it may result in the suspension of your driving privileges. Therefore, it is crucial to submit the report as soon as possible if you cannot meet the deadline.

How do I submit the Accident Report?

You can submit the Accident Report through several methods: by email to [email protected], by fax at 503-945-5267, by mail to the DMV Crash Reporting Unit at 1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, Oregon 97314, or by delivering it directly to a DMV office. Ensure that you keep a copy of the report and any documentation that proves when you submitted it.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

When completing the form, you must provide detailed information about the crash, including the date, time, and location. You will also need to include your vehicle's details, insurance information, and a description of the incident. If there are additional vehicles involved, you must use the Supplemental Report form to capture their information.

What if my vehicle is totaled?

If your vehicle is declared a total loss, you must follow specific instructions. You may need to surrender the title to your insurer or to the DMV, depending on the circumstances. If you cannot obtain the title, you must notify the DMV with a signed statement detailing the situation. Failing to comply with these requirements can lead to legal penalties.

Will the DMV determine fault in the accident?

No, the DMV does not determine fault in a crash. However, they will record the accident on the driving records of those drivers who are required to report it, unless the vehicle was parked. This means that while fault is not assessed, the incident will still be documented.

What should I do if I have questions about the report?

If you have any questions or need assistance while completing the Accident Report, you can contact the DMV Crash Reporting Unit at (503) 945-5098. They can provide guidance and clarify any uncertainties you may have regarding the reporting process.

Is there a penalty for not complying with the reporting requirements?

Yes, failing to comply with the reporting requirements can result in serious consequences, including the issuance of a Notice of Suspension for your driving privileges. It is essential to adhere to the guidelines to avoid these penalties.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all required fields can lead to significant issues. Each section of the form must be completed accurately, including your insurance details. Missing information may result in a Notice of Suspension from the DMV.

  2. Incorrect Timing: Submitting the report after the 72-hour deadline can have serious consequences. Oregon law mandates that the report be filed within this timeframe. If you miss the deadline, submit the report as soon as possible to avoid penalties.

  3. Neglecting to Sign: The report must be signed and dated by the person making it. If the driver is incapacitated, only a family member may sign on their behalf. Omitting this step can render the report invalid.

  4. Not Following Submission Guidelines: The method of submission matters. Whether you choose to email, fax, or mail the report, ensure you follow the specific instructions provided. For example, if emailing, keep the autoreply as proof of submission.

Documents used along the form

When involved in a traffic accident in Oregon, several forms and documents may be required in addition to the Oregon DMV Accident Report form. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in the aftermath of a crash, ensuring that all necessary information is collected and reported accurately. Below is a list of these forms and documents, along with brief descriptions of their significance.

  • Supplemental Report (Form 735-32B): This form is used when there are more than two vehicles involved in an accident. It allows drivers to provide additional details about other parties involved, ensuring that all necessary information is documented and submitted to the DMV.
  • Motor Carrier Crash Report (Form 735-9229): Required for commercial motor vehicle operators, this report must be filed within 30 days of a crash involving a fatality, injury, or towing of a vehicle due to disabling damage. It complements the DMV Accident Report and provides specific details relevant to commercial vehicles.
  • Application for Salvage Title (Form 735-229): If your vehicle is declared a total loss, this form is necessary to apply for a salvage title. It outlines the steps to take if your vehicle has been totaled, including surrendering the title to the insurer or DMV.
  • Insurance Claim Form: This document is typically submitted to your insurance company to initiate a claim for damages or injuries resulting from the accident. It contains details about the crash, involved parties, and the extent of damages.
  • Police Report: If law enforcement responded to the scene, they may file a police report. While not required to be submitted to the DMV, it can provide valuable information regarding the accident, including witness statements and officer observations.
  • Witness Statements: Collecting statements from witnesses can be crucial for establishing the facts of the accident. These statements can support your account of the events and may be submitted to insurance companies or used in legal proceedings.
  • Medical Records: If injuries were sustained in the accident, medical records documenting treatment and diagnoses will be essential for insurance claims and any potential legal actions. These records provide evidence of the impact of the accident on your health.

Understanding these additional forms and documents can help streamline the process of reporting an accident and ensure that all necessary information is collected. Proper documentation is vital for protecting your rights and facilitating the resolution of any claims or legal matters arising from the incident.

Similar forms

The Oregon DMV Accident Report form is similar to the California Traffic Collision Report. Both documents require drivers involved in an accident to provide detailed information about the incident. Each form asks for specifics such as date, time, location, and the parties involved. California also emphasizes the importance of filing within a certain timeframe, similar to Oregon's 72-hour requirement. Both states use these reports to maintain accurate driving records and ensure compliance with local laws.

Another comparable document is the Florida Crash Report. Like the Oregon form, it mandates that drivers involved in a crash report any damages exceeding a specified amount. The Florida report includes sections for personal information, vehicle details, and crash specifics, mirroring the structure of the Oregon DMV form. Both forms serve the purpose of documenting the event for insurance and legal purposes, ensuring that all necessary information is collected for follow-up actions.

The New York State Motor Vehicle Accident Report shares similarities with the Oregon DMV form as well. Both documents require drivers to report accidents that result in injuries or significant property damage. New York's report also includes sections for insurance information and details about other vehicles involved, just like Oregon's. Timeliness is critical in both cases, as failure to report can lead to penalties or suspension of driving privileges.

The Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Report is another document that resembles the Oregon DMV Accident Report. In Texas, drivers must file a report if the accident results in injury or property damage over a certain threshold. Both forms require detailed information about the crash, including driver and vehicle details. They are both crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings, underscoring the importance of accurate and timely reporting.

The Illinois Crash Report is similar in that it requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries or significant damage. Like the Oregon form, it has sections for personal and vehicle information, as well as a description of the crash. The Illinois report also emphasizes the need for timely submission, aligning with Oregon's strict deadlines for reporting accidents to the DMV.

In addition, the Michigan Traffic Crash Report bears similarities to the Oregon DMV Accident Report. Both documents require drivers to provide comprehensive details about the crash, including the circumstances leading to the incident. Michigan's report also highlights the importance of insurance information, echoing Oregon's requirement to ensure that all parties are properly documented for future reference.

Lastly, the Washington State Collision Report is akin to the Oregon DMV form. Both require drivers to report accidents that meet specific criteria, such as injury or damage thresholds. The structure of the Washington report includes sections for driver information, vehicle details, and crash specifics, paralleling the Oregon format. Timely submission is also a critical aspect of both forms, reinforcing the urgency of compliance with state reporting laws.

Dos and Don'ts

Things to Do When Filling Out the Oregon DMV Accident Report Form:

  • Print or type all information clearly.
  • Complete both sides of the form.
  • Provide accurate date, location, and time of the crash.
  • Fill out the insurance section completely to avoid suspension of driving privileges.
  • Describe what happened in detail in the description section.
  • Sign and date the form yourself, unless you are incapacitated.
  • Keep a copy of the report for your records.
  • Submit the report within 72 hours of the crash.
  • Contact the DMV if you have questions about the form.
  • Include information for any additional vehicles involved using the Supplemental Report.

Things to Avoid When Filling Out the Oregon DMV Accident Report Form:

  • Do not leave any fields blank; incomplete information may lead to penalties.
  • Do not submit the title of your vehicle with the crash report.
  • Do not use light-colored ink; stick to black or dark blue.
  • Do not provide insurance agent information; list the insurance company name only.
  • Do not sign the report on behalf of the driver unless you are a family member and the driver is incapacitated.
  • Do not delay filing the report beyond 72 hours.
  • Do not ignore the requirement to file even if a police report exists.
  • Do not forget to keep documentation of your submission method.
  • Do not assume DMV will provide a copy of your report; keep your own records.
  • Do not submit the report without verifying all information is accurate and complete.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the Oregon DMV Accident Report form, along with clarifications to help you understand the requirements better:

  • Only police reports are necessary. Many believe that if a police report is filed, they don’t need to submit their own report. However, all drivers involved in a crash must file their own Crash and Insurance Report with the DMV, regardless of police involvement.
  • The report must be filed immediately after the crash. While it’s best to file as soon as possible, Oregon law allows you to submit the report within 72 hours of the crash. If you miss this window, file it as soon as you can.
  • It’s only required if there are injuries. Some people think the report is only necessary when someone is injured. In fact, you must file if there’s damage over $2,500 to any vehicle or property, even if no one is hurt.
  • Only Oregon residents need to file. This is not true. Anyone involved in a crash in Oregon, even if they are from another state, must complete and submit the report.
  • DMV determines fault in accidents. Many assume that the DMV will decide who is at fault after reviewing the reports. In reality, the DMV does not determine fault; it simply records the information provided.
  • Filing the report is optional. Some individuals think they can choose whether or not to file. However, if the criteria for reporting are met, it is mandatory to file the report to avoid potential suspension of driving privileges.
  • You can submit the report in any format. While you can submit the report via email, fax, or mail, it must be in the correct format as specified by the DMV. This includes completing both sides of the form and providing accurate information.
  • Insurance information isn’t important. Some people overlook the insurance section, thinking it’s not critical. However, failing to provide complete insurance details can lead to suspension of your driving privileges.
  • Once filed, you can’t change your report. This is a misconception. If you realize you made a mistake after submitting your report, you can contact the DMV to correct any inaccuracies.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Oregon DMV Accident Report form is a crucial step for drivers involved in a crash. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Who Must File: Only drivers involved in accidents that result in vehicle damage over $2,500, property damage over $2,500, injuries, or fatalities must complete the report.
  • Deadline: Reports must be filed within 72 hours of the crash. If you miss this window, submit the report as soon as possible to avoid potential penalties.
  • Police Reports: Even if a police report is filed, you still need to submit your own Crash and Insurance Report to the DMV.
  • Insurance Information: Ensure that you provide complete insurance details. Incomplete information may lead to a suspension of your driving privileges.
  • Signature Requirement: The report must be signed by the driver or a family member if the driver is incapacitated. No other signatures are accepted.
  • Submission Methods: You can submit the report via email, fax, mail, or in person at a DMV office. Keep a copy of your submission and any confirmation received.
  • Titled Vehicles: If your vehicle is totaled, follow specific instructions for surrendering the title to the insurer or DMV, depending on your situation.
  • Documentation: Always keep a copy of the report and any documentation showing when you submitted it to the DMV. This can be important for future reference.

Understanding these points can help ensure that you complete the report correctly and avoid any complications with your driving privileges.