Table of Contents
Overview
Many drivers feel unsure about when to call the police after a car crash in California. This guide explains legal requirements, how a Police Report protects your injury case, what officers document, how to request your accident report, and why legal advice may help you protect your rights.
A sudden crash can leave any family shaken, especially when you’re unsure whether you need to call the police after a car crash in California. Many Fil-Am families rely on quick guidance during stressful moments.
Calling the police may feel intimidating, but it can protect you legally, medically, and financially. This guide will help you understand your responsibilities and protect your rights after a crash.
When Are You Legally Required to Call the Police?
California law requires reporting certain collisions. Under California Vehicle Code § 20008, drivers must notify law enforcement within 24 hours if a crash involves:
- Injuries or death
- Significant property damage
If officers do not arrive at the scene, you are still required to file an SR-1 form with the DMV within 10 days if the crash caused injury, death, or more than $1,000 in damage. Para sa kaligtasan at proteksiyon ng pamilya mo, mas mabuting mag-report agad kaysa maghintay pa.
Failing to report can result in legal penalties, delays in processing your auto insurance claim, and complications in establishing liability.
Why a Police Report Protects Your Injury Claim
A police report serves as powerful legal evidence in an injury case, especially when dealing with an insurance company that may question your story. Officers document facts objectively, which can strengthen your claim for:
- Vehicle damage
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Accident injuries
This record also helps your automobile insurance adjuster verify details faster, reducing disputes about fault.
Many families discover that having a formal accident report prevents the other driver from changing their story later—something common in car accidents involving intersections or unclear traffic signals.
What Information Do Police Officers Document
Police officers, including those with the California Highway Patrol, collect details that matter for both safety and legal purposes. These may include:
- Names and license numbers of all involved drivers
- License plate numbers
- Road and weather conditions
- Witness statements
- Diagram of the scene
- Observations of vehicle damage
- Possible violations of traffic laws
- Photos, damage pictures, or notes on debris
- Information about auto insurance details
This documentation is often crucial in auto collision cases where fault is unclear.
What If the Other Driver Refuses to Cooperate?
It happens more often than many families expect—another driver may refuse to:
- Share ID
- Provide insurance details
- Stay at the scene
If this happens, call the police after a car crash in California immediately. Officers can collect the required information, document any suspicious behavior, and prevent potential disputes in the future.
Never chase or confront an uncooperative driver. Allow law enforcement to handle the situation.
Does Failing to Report the Crash Hurt Your Case?
Yes. Not calling the police after a collision can:
- Make it more complicated to prove fault
- Delay your injury case
- Give the insurance company a reason to minimize your claim
- Create issues verifying medical records
- Limit your ability to recover financial support for medical attention or lost income
Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms—especially neck or head injuries—appear hours or days later. Reporting builds a clear timeline that protects you.
How to Request Your Official Accident Report
After any auto collision, getting a copy of your official accident report is an essential step in documenting what happened. In California, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) allows specific individuals to request a copy for legal, insurance, or personal reasons.
Who Is Allowed to Request a Report?
You may be eligible to request the report if you fall under one of these groups:
- A driver, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian involved in the crash
- A parent or guardian requesting on behalf of a minor
- The owner of a vehicle or damaged property
- An attorney or authorized legal representative
- An insurance company with a valid policy or claim number
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, you can contact any CHP office for guidance.
Ways to Request Your Report
- Online (CHP Crash Portal)
Submit your request through CHP’s online portal by providing basic crash details such as the date, location, and names involved. This is usually the quickest option. - In Person or by Mail
Download and complete the CHP 190 form from the official CHP website. Include the crash date, location, driver/owner information, your Party of Interest category, contact details, and signature. Some offices may charge a small fee; therefore, please call ahead to confirm the requirements.
💡If you have a personal injury lawyer, they can also handle the entire request for you as part of your claim.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer can support your case by:
- Investigating the scene and gathering legal evidence
- Communicating with law enforcement and your insurance company
- Reviewing medical records and bills
- Handling disputes about auto insurance claims
- Ensuring deadlines for the SR-1 form, DMV notifications, and injury filings are met
- Helping you pursue full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term care
When injuries are severe, working with the best car accident lawyer in California can make a significant difference in your recovery and settlement negotiations.
FAQs
Should I still call the police if the crash seems minor?
Yes. Even minor auto collision cases can lead to delayed pain or hidden vehicle damage. A report protects your rights.
Can I file an insurance claim without a Police Report?
You can, but it becomes more challenging to prove fault or determine the value of your loss without an official document.
What if the officer doesn't come to the scene?
You must still file an SR-1 form with the DMV if injuries or property damage exceed $1,000.
How long do I have to request my accident report?
CHP does not set a strict deadline, but requesting it early helps your claim progress more quickly.
The Help You Need After a Crash Starts Here
Knowing when to call the police after a car crash in California protects your safety, your claim, and your family’s financial stability. The proper steps today can prevent bigger problems later.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a crash, contact our team for a free consultation. We’re here to guide you, explain your options, and help you move forward confidently.
