Do I Always Need to Call the Police After a Car Crash in California?

After a California car accident, the people involved are required to stop and check the other individual and damage to the vehicles. If one of the drivers does not stop and continues driving without assessing the situation and talking with the other party, they can be charged with fleeing a hit-and-run for fleeing the scene. Even if the accident seems minor, there is a possibility that someone can be hurt.

While minor accidents with little to no damage are not required to be reported to the police, it is still a good idea to have an accident report on file in case you discover an injury that resulted from the accident. For example, if another car rear-ends you, but you both stop and see there is no damage, you may decide to part ways without calling the police. If you later find out that you sustained whiplash from the accident, having an accident report can be beneficial for your insurance claims and legal disputes, ensuring you get the necessary medical treatment and medication for your injury.

Another reason to contact the police after even a minor accident is to document the facts. At-fault drivers often apologize and admit fault at the scene only to later try to shift blame when speaking with the insurance companies. In short, contacting the police after an accident can save you money, time, and frustration.

Does the Law Require Me to Contact the Police for a Police Report after an Accident in California?

It is advisable to contact the police right after a car accident. Having an officer at the scene ensures that information is exchanged properly and that an official report is made, documenting the incident with statements from all involved parties, if feasible. It is also crucial to have a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration available during an accident to demonstrate proof of identity and financial responsibility.

There are a few circumstances where the drivers must report the accident to the California Highway Patrol or the local police department where the crash occurred. In any of the cases below, the accident must be reported within 24 hours after the accident:

The accident caused a bodily injury or death.
The accident involved a hit-and-run or an intoxicated driver.
Property damages from the accident seem to exceed $1,000.

Additionally, adhering to the California Vehicle Code is essential when reporting accidents to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

In California, the law may require you to file a report with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within ten days of the accident. Filing a report with these departments is critical in a personal injury case or where you are looking to recover compensation for the damages you incur due to injuries and property damage. There can be penalties assessed if you neglect to file the proper paperwork following an accident.

When to Call the Police After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident in California, it’s essential to know when to call the police. According to California law, you must report an accident to the police or the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if:

Someone is injured or killed
Property damage exceeds $1,000
A hit-and-run incident occurs

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to call the police to ensure that an official report is filed. This report can be valuable for insurance claims or legal disputes. Additionally, if you don’t report the accident and someone is injured or killed, you could face severe penalties, including fines and even jail time.

Why Should I Call the Police after a Car Accident in California?

Filing a police report puts the accident on file and memorializes that this event happened. Police officers respond to countless accidents and have experience with what to look out for during an accident investigation. A police report can protect your legal rights to compensation and strengthen your claim against an at-fault driver. Additionally, having a police report can be crucial when dealing with insurance adjusters, as it provides documented evidence that can support your claim.

Police reports often contain vital information about the accident, including:

The contact information for all parties, their insurance companies, and any accident witnesses
Explicit details and accounts of how the accident occurred
Statements from the drivers and witnesses
The weather conditions and location of the accident
The law enforcement officer’s conclusions about the cause of the accident
If there were any traffic tickets issued

When a police report is not filed or law enforcement is not called, the party at fault may make many untrue statements. Filing a report with the police can help protect you and your ability to file a claim for injuries or damages you incur. An insurance agent can assist you in reporting the incident to the DMV, handling the claims process, and ensuring all necessary documentation is provided.

The Importance of a Police Report After a Car Accident

A police report is a crucial document that provides clear and credible evidence to support your claim. Insurance companies often consider police reports when processing claims, as they help establish the details of the accident and determine fault. When you file a claim with the insurance company, the company uses the police report to provide its underwriters with proof of the accident.

A police report can also influence determinations of liability made by the insurance company or a judge. If you did not call the police or receive a police report after a minor accident and want to pursue damages, a skilled car accident attorney might still be able to help you pursue a settlement.

Communicating with Police After a Car Accident: Dos and Don’ts

When speaking with police after a car accident, it’s essential to be cautious and strategic. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:- Provide factual and concise statements
Avoid making assumptions or speculations about the accident
Refrain from admitting fault or liability
Keep your statements brief and to the point
Don’t:- Discuss the accident with the other party
Make emotional or defensive statements
Discuss your insurance or financial situation

Remember, the police report can have a significant impact on your claim, so it’s crucial to be mindful of what you say and do during the investigation.

Preserving Evidence After a Car Accident in California

Preserving evidence after a car accident is crucial to support your claim. Here are some steps you can take:

Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any visible injuries
Collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver
Keep a record of any medical treatment or expenses related to the accident
Document any communication with the insurance company or other parties involved

Having a police report can be extremely helpful in preserving evidence and protecting your rights. If you decide to pursue a claim for compensation with the insurance company, having a police report can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

You have the right to file a claim with the insurance company
You have the right to seek medical attention and compensation for your injuries
You have the right to choose your own repair shop for your vehicle
You have the right to seek legal representation if you’re not satisfied with the insurance company’s offer

Remember, insurance companies are not always looking out for your best interests. It’s crucial to be aware of your rights and options to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Contact an Experienced California Car Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation Today

Our team of dedicated lawyers has years of experience advocating for the rights and interests of our clients. With accessible communication and extensive knowledge of California law, our car accident lawyers are proud to offer dependable legal services you can trust. At Younglove Law Group, our primary goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need for a successful claim process. We want to make sure that you are properly protected and represented in legal conflicts.

Call (949) 691-3660 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.