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. Additionally, drivers across California, including those in San Mateo County and throughout the Bay Area, are required to adhere to specific reporting rules following a motor vehicle accident. Understanding when to contact law enforcement and when you must file a report can help you avoid legal penalties and protect your right to pursue legal action. 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 under certain circumstances.
Situations Where California Law Requires Reporting
- 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, there are certain situations in which contacting the police at the scene and filing a report may be in your best interest.
When Calling At the Scene Is Strongly Recommended
- Any driver appears intoxicated
- The vehicles involved in the crash are blocking traffic
- Any driver leaves the scene without stopping
- Someone is injured or needs medical attention
- The vehicles have sustained extensive damage and cannot be safely moved
If you are unsure how badly the vehicles are damaged or if you feel unsafe for any reason, you should always call the police and report the accident.
Do You Also Have to Report a Car Accident to the California DMV?
In addition to filing a formal police report, California law also requires drivers to report accidents to the California Department of Motor Vehicles when certain conditions are met. These reporting rules apply to crashes across California, including local roads, county highways, and state-maintained roads, regardless of whether the collision occurs in San Mateo County or the surrounding Bay Area communities.
When DMV Reporting Is Required
- Someone suffers an injury in the accident
- Someone was killed in the accident
- Property damage exceeds $1,000
If any of these criteria apply, you are required to report the collision to the California DMV within 10 days of the accident. You can submit the report by completing the SR-1 Traffic Accident Report form.
Why Is Calling the Police After an Accident Important?
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.
How a Police Report Can Protect You After an Accident
- Police officers will document the names of all parties involved
- Officers will record the driver’s license and insurance information
- A police report serves as an official record of the accident
- Law enforcement can detect impairment or identify traffic violations
- The report can serve as important evidence during legal proceedings or insurance claims
Evidence That May Appear in a Police Accident Report
- Statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Citations issued
- The officer’s description of how the collision occurred
- Documentation of visible damage to the vehicles
- Diagrams of vehicle positions and roadway conditions
Without a formal report, the other driver involved may claim they had no involvement, or you may not realize that the driver is uninsured.
What Happens if I Do Not File an Accident Report in California?
If any of the above apply 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.
Possible Consequences of Not Reporting an Accident
- Suspension or revocation of your license
- Criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident
- Difficulty establishing fault during insurance negotiations
- The insurance company disputes if no report exists
- Increased legal risk if the other driver files a claim against you
What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident in California?
Taking the correct steps following an accident can have a considerable impact on the outcome of your claim. Though these matters can often be complex and overwhelming, remaining as calm as possible will help increase your chances of a more favorable outcome.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
- Check on the passengers and assess yourself for injuries
- If possible, move vehicles out of the roadway to a safe location
- Call 911 to request police and medical assistance at the scene
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the damage to both vehicles
- Gather the contact information of witnesses
- Seek medical attention even if you feel okay or injuries seem minor
Contact an Experienced California Car Accident Attorney
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. If you have suffered injuries and need assistance recovering the compensation you deserve, working with the team at the Law Office of Allister R. Liao, P.C., is in your best interest. Our firm understands how complicated these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to assist you through these difficult times. Contact us today to learn more.