California Car Accident Guide: Reporting Deadlines, Fault, and Insurance Rules.This guide covers how long you have to file a police report, insurance reporting rules, and what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault — all backed by official California sources.
If you’ve been in a car accident in California — whether it’s a major collision or a minor fender-bender — knowing when and how to report it is essential.
This car accident guide covers how long you have to file a police report, insurance reporting rules, and what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault — all backed by official California sources.
1.How Long to Report a California Car Accident
California law requires accident reports under specific circumstances:
- Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured or killed.
Reference: California Department of Insurance (CDI) – Auto Insurance 101 - DMV Report (Form SR-1):
You must file this within 10 days if there’s injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
Source: California DMV – Accident Reporting Requirements - Insurance Notification:
Notify your insurer as soon as possible (ideally within 24–48 hours).
Late reporting can delay or invalidate your claim.
👉 Related: How long do you have to report an accident to insurance in California?
2.Fault and Insurance Process in California
California is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident must pay for damages.
If You’re Not at Fault
You can file a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
Reference: CDI – Understanding Fault and Liability Coverage
If You’re at Fault
Your liability coverage pays for others’ damages up to your policy limits.
Premiums may rise after a claim.
Legal Reference: California Insurance Code – Auto Rating Factors (PDF)
If You’re Uninsured
Driving without insurance is illegal in California.
You may face:
- License suspension
- Fines up to $500+
- Inability to claim non-economic damages (under Proposition 213)
Reference: CDI – Uninsured Motorist Law
👉 Related: Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California Explained
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3.What to Do After a Minor Car Accident California(Both Fault and No-Fault Situations)
If You’re Not at Fault
- Move to a safe location.
- Call 911 if needed.
- Exchange driver and insurance information.
- Take photos and note witnesses.
- Request a police report.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Seek medical evaluation.
If You’re at Fault
- Don’t admit fault at the scene.
- Cooperate with law enforcement.
- Report to your insurer promptly.
- Keep copies of all claim-related documents.
- Seek legal advice for serious injuries or disputes.
Reference: CDI – Auto Insurance Consumer Guide
4.Hit-and-Run and Delayed Reporting Penalties
California treats failure to report an accident or hit-and-run as serious offenses.
- Property damage only: Misdemeanor — fines up to $1,000, up to 6 months in jail.
- Injury or death: Felony — up to 4 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
Reference: California Vehicle Code §20001–20002
Filing a report weeks after an accident is still possible, but it weakens your insurance and legal case.
5.Key Deadlines to Remember
| Action | Deadline | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Call 911 (injury/death) | Immediately | Insurance.ca.gov |
| File DMV SR-1 | Within 10 days | DMV California |
| Report to Insurance | 24–48 hours recommended | CDI |
| Hit-and-Run (reporting) | Immediately | Vehicle Code §20002 |
Final Thoughts
In California, time and documentation are everything after a car accident. Whether it’s reporting to the police, filing with the DMV, or contacting your insurer, timely action protects your legal and financial rights.
Detailed records — such as photographs of the scene, witness statements, medical evaluations, and repair estimates — can make a decisive difference when determining fault or pursuing compensation.
Even minor accidents should be reported promptly to ensure compliance with California’s mandatory reporting laws. Acting quickly not only preserves crucial evidence but also strengthens your position if you need to file an insurance claim or consult with a personal injury attorney later on.
