Crashes, insurance and registration in Alaska

By the end of this topic you can

• You can follow the correct steps at a crash scene.
• You can say when to call 911 and when to report to the DMV.
• You can state Alaska's minimum liability insurance.
• You can explain the proof-of-insurance deadline after a crash.
• You can describe the basics of registering a vehicle in Alaska.

What you need to know and understand

• Minimum liability cover is $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury or death and $25,000 for property damage.
• Either the vehicle owner or the driver must carry this insurance, and proof must be kept in the vehicle. Proof on a phone is accepted at a traffic stop.
• Call 911 if anyone is injured or total property damage is $2,000 or more.
• Report a crash to the DMV within 10 days unless a police officer investigated it.
• If anyone is hurt or property damage is $501 or more, every driver involved must give the DMV proof of insurance within 15 days, whoever caused the crash.
• Being uninsured, or missing the 15-day deadline, means a 90-day suspension for a first occurrence and 1 year for a second.
• Registrations are valid for two years. New residents must apply to register within 10 days of entering Alaska or starting work there.

At the crash scene

1. Stop at once. If you are blocking traffic and can move, get out of the way.
2. Warn other traffic, using flares or other signals at night, without stepping in front of vehicles.
3. Help anyone hurt. Do not move an injured person unless you must. Call for an ambulance if needed.
4. Exchange names, addresses, license numbers, plate numbers, phone numbers and insurance companies. Note witnesses.
5. Call 911 for injuries or damage of $2,000 or more. Inside a municipality this reaches local police. Outside one, contact the Alaska State Troopers.
6. Cooperate with the officer, then complete any DMV report and insurance certificate on time.

Special situations

If you hit a parked car or property such as a fence, stop and try to find the owner. If you cannot, leave a note with your name, address and phone number.

If you kill or injure a moose or other big game animal, notify the Alaska State Troopers or a Fish and Wildlife officer as soon as possible. The animal belongs to the state.

Insurance and registration basics

Under the financial responsibility law, if you could reasonably be found liable for a crash, your license can be suspended for up to three years unless you settle with the other parties. Failing to show proof of insurance to an officer can lead to a ticket or the vehicle being impounded.

To register a vehicle, you submit a vehicle transaction application to the DMV with the title and fees. Non-residents may drive on a current out-of-state registration for up to 60 days. Alaska non-commercial vehicles carry a single rear license plate with current month and year tabs.

Common mistakes

• Assuming the other driver's fault means you need not send proof of insurance. All drivers must, within 15 days.
• Leaving without exchanging details after a minor bump.
• Letting insurance lapse on a car you still drive. A crash while uninsured means suspension.
• Forgetting the 10-day registration deadline after moving to Alaska.

Test yourself: Crashes, insurance and registration in Alaska

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Alaska 40 Hour Supervised Driving Certification Checklist
• Alaska Off-Highway Driver’s License
• Alaska Permit Practice Test