It is necessary to call the police after a car accident in California under certain conditions. Minor accidents that do not result in an injury or serious damage may not require police intervention or an official report. However, it is better to be safe than sorry regarding something as serious as a car accident. If you were involved in a collision and require representation reach out to a San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer for skilled legal advice.
Am I Required to Call the Police After a Car Accident in CA?
Under California state law, drivers must report a car accident to the police within 24 hours if any of the following apply.
- A person is injured
- A person dies
- Damage to any vehicle or property exceeds $1,000
While you have 24 hours to make the report, you may be required to call the police at the scene if any of the following is true.
- Any driver appears intoxicated
- The vehicles involved in the crash are blocking traffic
- Any driver leaves the scene without stopping
If you are unsure how badly the vehicles are damaged or you feel unsafe for any reason, you should always call the police and report the accident.
Why is Calling the Police Necessary?
Dialing 911 after an accident or filing a report of the crash within 24 hours is crucial for many reasons. First of all, informing law enforcement about the accident can ensure that you and anyone else involved can be checked on and brought to safety. The police can redirect traffic and contact tow trucks and an ambulance to clear the roads and have you medically examined.
Additionally, filing a report creates a paper trail which can be important if you wish to file a claim or pursue legal action. The police documenting the names, contact information, license numbers, and insurance information of everyone involved ensures that you can hold the liable party accountable. Without a report, one driver may attempt to claim they were not involved in the accident, or you may not realize that someone is uninsured.
What Happens if I Do Not Make a Report?
If any of the above applies to your car crash and you fail to report the accident within 24 hours, there may be serious consequences. You could lose your driving privileges or even face charges for a hit-and-run which could result in criminal penalties.
The best and easiest way to ensure you are in compliance with the law is to call 911 after any accident. Even if it is minor and you do not believe you are required to call, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to legal matters. Call the police and file the proper paperwork just in case.
