Massachusetts § 26 - Accident reports; supplemental report; penalty for violation
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 26 — Accident reports; supplemental report; penalty for violation, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26. Accident reports; supplemental report; penalty for violation
Section 26. Every person operating a motor vehicle which is involved in an accident in which any person is killed or injured or in which there is damage in excess of one thousand dollars to any one vehicle or other property shall, within five days after such accident, report in writing to the registrar on a form approved by him and send a copy thereof to the police department having jurisdiction on the way where such accident occurred; provided, however, that such police department shall accept a report filed by an owner or operator whose vehicle has been damaged in an accident in which another person has unlawfully left the scene of such accident. Such report shall not be required during the period of incapacity of any person who is physically incapable of making a report. If the operator is not the owner of the vehicle and is physically incapable of making such written report, the owner shall within five days after the accident make such report based on such knowledge as he may have and such information as he can obtain regarding the accident.
The registrar may require any such operator or owner to file a supplementary written report whenever in the opinion of the registrar the original report is insufficient.
The registrar may revoke or suspend the license of any person violating any provision of this section.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 26
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 26 cover?
Section 26 ("Accident reports; supplemental report; penalty for violation") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 26?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 26" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 26 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.