California traffic never seems to slow down, but that doesn’t mean drivers are always focused and alert while behind the wheel.
A distracted, careless or reckless driver may veer out of a lane, approach stopped traffic too quickly, or turn in front of oncoming traffic when they don’t have the space. These careless acts can all result in a dangerous collision.
From fender-benders to major accidents, it’s important to know what to do after a collision. These guidelines can apply to the moments after a devastating impact and to the actions you must take in the days after an incident.
California’s DMV Guidelines for Car Accident Victims
The DMV’s California Driver Handbook has a checklist of duties all drivers are responsible for in the event of an accident.
If you are physically able, you should attempt to take these actions after a collision:
- Remain on the Scene. Someone could be injured and need your help. If you do not stop, you may be convicted of “hit and run” and could face losing your license and jail time.
- Call 9-1-1 if someone is hurt.
- Move your vehicle out of the traffic lane if no one is injured or killed.
- Present information to other drivers, other people involved, and officers. This includes your driver’s license, vehicle registration card, insurance information, and your current address.
- You (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a written report to the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP) within 24 hours of the collision if someone is killed or injured.
- If you hit a parked vehicle or other property, leave a note with your name, phone number, and address in or securely attached to the vehicle or property you hit. Report the collision to the city police, or in unincorporated areas, to the CHP.
- If your parked car rolls away and hits another vehicle, try to find the owner and report the incident to authorities as mentioned above.
- If you kill or injure an animal, call the nearest humane society, police, or CHP office. Do not try to move an injured animal or leave an injured animal to die.
Your Duty to Report the Accident
After a collision in California you, your insurance agent, or your legal representative must report your accident to the DMV within 10 days if:
- More than $1,000 in damage was done to the property of any person.
- Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.
No matter who was at fault each driver must file this report with DMV using the Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) form. You can also call 1-800-777-0133 for more information. The CHP or police will not make this report for you.
Another report may be necessary if a member of law enforcement for some reason didn’t respond to your accident. Car accidents resulting in any injury or death require drivers to contact the police or Highway Patrol and make a written report within 24 hours of the incident.
Finding Support for Collision Victims in California
If you or a loved one are injured by a careless driver, make sure the at-fault driver’s insurance company is held fully responsible. Victims and their families should be allowed to focus on recovery and not have the burden of paying for the enormous expense of medical care on their shoulders.
Talk over your case with an experienced personal injury lawyer familiar with all California traffic laws. Maison Law of California offers a free consultation session to victims and family members.
