How Long After a Hit-and-Run Accident Can You Be Charged?
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | June 10, 2025 | Car Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents are taken seriously in California. Leaving the scene of a crash without stopping can lead to criminal charges, even if the damage seems minor. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run in Sherman Oaks or anywhere in Los Angeles County, you could still be charged days, months, or even years after the incident, depending on the facts.
Understanding how long after a hit-and-run accident you can be charged is important. Once the statute of limitations expires, you can no longer be prosecuted for the crime.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Hit-and-Run in California?
The time limit for filing criminal charges depends on whether the hit-and-run is a misdemeanor or a felony.
The following are the statutes of limitations:
Misdemeanor hit-and-run: This applies to accidents involving property damage only. Under California Vehicle Code § 20002, the driver must stop and leave their information. If they fail to do so, prosecutors have one year from the date of the incident to file charges.
Felony hit-and-run: This applies when someone is injured or killed. Under California Vehicle Code § 20001, the state has up to three years to file felony charges against the driver.
The deadline starts on the day of the crash. If prosecutors miss that deadline, the case is likely barred from moving forward unless an exception applies.
What if the Driver Is Not Found Right Away?
Many hit-and-run drivers leave the scene before they are identified. Police may later identify the vehicle through surveillance footage, eyewitness reports, or forensic evidence like vehicle paint or broken parts.
The statute of limitations still starts on the date of the accident, even if the driver is not found immediately. However, some delays may be allowed if the driver actively evades law enforcement or leaves the state.
If prosecutors can show that the driver tried to avoid being caught, the court may pause the statute of limitations through a process called “tolling.” This gives the state more time to bring charges.
What Happens if the Deadline Passes?
Once the statute of limitations has passed, the state generally cannot press charges, meaning:
A misdemeanor hit-and-run can no longer be prosecuted after one year.
A felony hit-and-run can no longer be prosecuted after three years.
These limits are strict in most cases. Even if the driver later confesses, the case may be dismissed if the deadline has expired. However, civil lawsuits for damages may still be possible, even if criminal charges are no longer allowed.
What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run?
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, act quickly:
Call the police immediately
Get medical help if needed
Take photos of the scene
Write down anything you remember about the vehicle or driver
Ask nearby businesses or homes for security footage
Report the incident to your insurance company
If you are accused of leaving the scene, do not try to handle it alone. Talk to a criminal defense attorney before speaking to police or insurance investigators. Statements made early on can be used as evidence later.
How Long Can Police Keep Investigating?
Even if prosecutors have a deadline to file charges, police can investigate for as long as necessary. In many cases, officers work behind the scenes while reviewing evidence, checking surveillance footage, or waiting for lab results. If they identify a suspect within the time limit, prosecutors can still bring charges even if the investigation was slow.
Why Timing Matters in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run charges come with serious consequences, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and a permanent mark on your record. Understanding the time limits involved helps protect your rights. Whether you are a victim or a suspect, knowing how the statute of limitations works can help you act quickly and avoid costly mistakes.
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JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | June 10, 2025 | Car Accidents
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become a common method for getting around Encino, but their convenience doesn’t guarantee their safety. While most trips proceed without incident, some situations may require extra caution.
Whether you’re heading to a friend’s house or commuting across town, there are some simple steps you can take to stay alert and reduce your risk of harm.
Verify the Vehicle Before Getting In
One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to confirm that the car and driver match the information on the app. Always take a look at the vehicle make, model, and license plate and the driver’s photo. If anything doesn’t match, cancel the ride. Uber and Lyft don’t allow drivers to swap vehicles without updating the system.
Ask the Driver to Confirm Your Name
Before getting in, ask the driver who they’re picking up. A legitimate driver will be able to say the passenger’s first name. Riders should always avoid saying their name first to ensure that the driver is reading it from the app and not guessing.
If anything ever feels off about an interaction or a driver hesitates to confirm basic details, consider skipping the ride and requesting another one instead.
Choose the Right Seat
When riding alone, the safest seating option is almost always the back seat of the vehicle on the passenger side. This position provides two clear exits and a good amount of personal space for the rider. It also makes it easier to monitor the driver and maintain a safe distance from them within the vehicle.
It may be necessary to sit in the front seat when traveling with others, but if you’re pressured to sit up front as a solo rider, consider it a red flag. It’s within a passenger’s rights to decline and cancel the ride if needed.
Keep Loved Ones in the Loop
Uber and Lyft both offer trip sharing, which allows riders to send real-time trip updates, including their location and an estimated time of arrival, to friends or family members. This feature can help others keep an eye out, especially when you’re on a longer ride, in a new area, or traveling at night.
Don’t Overshare Personal Information
Friendly conversation is acceptable and common, but it’s best to avoid sharing sensitive information with an unfamiliar driver. If a driver asks unusual questions or requests specific information, report their actions through the platform.
Trust Your Instincts and Exit Early if Necessary
If the driver’s behavior raises concerns, it’s okay to end the ride early. App users can change the destination or add a stop and get out safely when the car slows down. There’s no need to justify leaving a ride if something feels off.
Both Uber and Lyft also offer an in-app emergency button. This feature allows riders to contact 911 and provides location and trip details automatically.
Avoid distractions and stay alert and present during the ride
These small measures can make a big difference in terms of personal safety.
Ridesharing Presents Real Risks
Uber and Lyft continue to invest in more advanced safety features, including anonymous communication methods, real-time ride tracking and GPS, and thorough background checks for drivers. Even so, technology can’t eliminate every risk. In the company’s latest safety report, Uber acknowledged 2,717 incidents of sexual assault.
Contact the Encino Car Accident Lawyers at JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Choosing to use a rideshare service shouldn’t cause fear. By following a few sensible best practices, riders can reduce their risk and get where they need to go without stress.
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | May 2, 2025 | Car Accidents
If your vehicle has been in a car accident, that damage will likely appear in vehicle history reports. Most buyers today use these reports, such as CarFax, to learn more about how the vehicle was used and maintained by previous owners. A vehicle with no accidents is almost always worth more than similar vehicles that have been involved in an accident.
A diminished value claim may allow you to recover the difference in your car’s value prior to an accident versus after the accident. There are a few different types of these claims you may bring in California, although proving them can sometimes be a challenge. Keep reading below to learn all the details.
Types of Diminished Value Claims in California
Most people who have been in an accident know that they can recover compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering if the other driver was at fault. Economic damages available after an accident also include property damage. Not only does this cover repairs to your vehicle, but it can also include these types of diminished value claims:
Value Diminished by Stigma
This is one of the most common types of diminished value claims. Most buyers prefer not to purchase a car that has been involved in an accident. This is one reason for the recent rise in popularity of vehicle history services. If a potential buyer finds that the vehicle has been in an accident, they will more than likely expect a lower price.
Immediate Diminished Value
This type of claim is rare, and it involves the diminished value of the vehicle immediately after the accident, before any repairs are made. The reason why these claims are rare is because the insurance company almost always pays for the repairs to the vehicle. Once the repairs have been made, this type of claim no longer has applicability.
Value Diminished by Repairs
Not all repair shops perform the same quality of work. Some repair facilities perform better work than others, so your vehicle’s value could be diminished because of the quality of work that was done. For instance, the shop may have:
Installed used or aftermarket parts
Cut corners when performing certain aspects of the work
Not matched the paint perfectly with the rest of the vehicle
Even though the repairs may be good enough to make your car safe and reliable again, it may be far from perfect. These types of repairs can ultimately reduce the value of your vehicle.
Proving a Diminished Value Claim
Proving a diminished value claim can be challenging. More than likely, the insurance company will attempt to pay you as little as possible for this type of claim. They will likely demand lots of evidence before they even pay the claim.
Proving a diminished value claim starts with proving the value of your car prior to the accident. You can use tools like NADA, Kelley Blue Book, and local listings to calculate how much your vehicle should be worth. When checking local listings, be sure to look for the same year, make, and model with similar options and mileage.
Once you have determined the pre-accident value of your car, you will need to determine how much it is worth after the accident. This may require getting a valuation report from an appraiser or visiting your local car dealer to get an offer on your vehicle. Once you have the current value of your car, you can present all your evidence back to the insurance company as part of your claim.
How Much Is My Diminished Value Claim Worth?
Unfortunately, diminished value claims are almost never worth as much as the vehicle owner expects. The insurance company usually makes its own determination about the value of your claim, and these claims are typically worth no more than 10% of the pre-accident value of the vehicle.
If the damage to your vehicle was only minor to moderate, then this amount is reduced even further. Similarly, your claim may be reduced based on the mileage of your car and whether it was in a previous accident. In most cases, diminished value claims are worth less than $3,000. However, if you believe the insurance company is trying to take advantage of you, it is always a good idea to talk to a lawyer who can help.
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JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | March 28, 2025 | Car Accidents
Uber and its fellow ridesharing services are immensely popular throughout the country. Customers enjoy knowing that they can quickly get a ride no matter where they are and for rates that are typically more affordable than traditional taxi fares. A concern that many riders share, however, is whether Uber is actually safer than a taxi service.
Are you more likely to get into an Uber accident or taxi accident? And do both of these options take the same steps to keep their customers safe? Learn more about what these two choices offer below.
Uber Vs. Taxis: Understanding the Risks
There are some significant differences to consider when deciding between taking an Uber or a taxi.
These involve the following:
Background Checks and Interviews
For an individual to become a taxi driver, they must go through extensive background checks that monitor whether they have any criminal records or serious health issues that could make them a danger to others. They must also participate in a series of interviews to ensure that any problems that could make them problematic to others are caught.
Uber and other rideshare companies perform similar background checks, but they don’t go through such an extensive interview process. That, in turn, could allow potentially dangerous behaviors, like substance misuse, to go unnoticed.
Vehicle Maintenance
There are many cases in which car accidents are not due to driver error but instead to malfunctioning vehicles. Taxi companies ensure that all of the cars are checked regularly and undergo the maintenance they need in a timely manner.
Uber drivers, on the other hand, use their own vehicles, so it’s up to them to perform any necessary maintenance. There’s no guarantee that their car is road-worthy at any given moment, which puts you at risk.
Steps to Ensure Customer Safety
In 2020 alone, Uber reported 998 sexual assault incidents and 141 rapes in their safety report. One of the biggest reasons why these attacks are more frequent in ridesharing services is that there is no real oversight; you could suffer catastrophic injuries in an assault, and there could be no record of it besides your own report.
That’s not the case with taxis. Taxi companies install cameras in their vehicles to protect riders and drivers alike. If any issues arise, there will be video evidence of it. That not only means assaults are less likely to occur but also that any driver behaviors that could put others at risk are monitored. And that cuts down on distracted driving.
Road Monitoring
Another difference between taxis and Uber is that taxi companies monitor road conditions to help their drivers provide better and safer services. Because Uber drivers are independent contractors, it’s up to them to know what the conditions are like in their area.
Filing a Claim After an Uber Accident
If you end up injured in an accident involving a ridesharing service like Uber, you may be entitled to file a claim for compensation. Whether you were a passenger or driving another vehicle, you may have the chance to file against the driver and even Uber itself.
If the driver was performing duties for Uber (that is, picking up passengers or driving them to their destinations) and did anything to cause a collision, Uber could face vicarious liability claims. This legal theory holds a party responsible for the actions of their agents. To make certain whether that sort of claim is an option you can pursue, hiring a lawyer is vital.
Working With an Uber Accident Lawyer
After suffering injuries in an accident involving either an Uber ride or a traditional taxi ride, hiring a personal injury lawyer can help you determine what your legal options may be. With experienced representation, you can focus on healing from your injuries while knowing that your claim is moving forward.
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JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | March 6, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, you may be wondering whether a police report is necessary to file an insurance claim. California law does not require a police report to file a claim. However, having a police report can significantly strengthen your case and help establish liability. Without a police report, proving fault and damages may be more challenging. However, it is still possible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
When Are You Required to Report a Car Accident in California?
The accident caused property damage in excess of $1000.
In either of these situations, you must notify law enforcement within 24 hours of the crash. Additionally, California law requires drivers to file an SR-1 report with the California Department of Motor Vehicles if the accident resulted in injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
If the police did not respond to the scene, you can file a report at the nearest police station or California Highway Patrol office.
Even if the law does not require you to report your accident, it is still highly recommended that you do so. A police report can serve as crucial evidence if you need to file a personal injury claim.
What Information is Included in a California Car Accident Report?
A California car accident report contains important details that can help prove your claim. This document provides a neutral third-party account of the accident and includes the following:
Date, time, and location of the accident
Descriptions of all vehicles involved (make, model, year, and color)
Driver contact and insurance information
Names and contact details of any passengers and witnesses
Statements from drivers, passengers, and eyewitnesses
Accident scene details, including road conditions and weather
Diagram or sketch of the crash site
Citations or violations issued to any driver
A police report does not determine liability. However, it can serve as strong evidence when dealing with insurance companies or in court.
Can You File a Car Accident Claim Without a Police Report?
Yes. A police report is not required to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. However, proving fault and damages may be more difficult without this official documentation.
If you don’t have a police report, you will need to gather other forms of evidence to support your claim, including:
Photographs and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
Medical records and bills documenting your injuries.
Witness statements from anyone who saw the crash.
Traffic camera or dashcam footage, if available.
Vehicle repair estimates or invoices.
Whether you have a police report or not, an experienced attorney can work to ensure your legal rights are defended to the fullest.
Why Is a Police Report Helpful for Your Claim?
While you can file a claim without a police report, having one can benefit your case. Here’s why:
Establishes an official record: Insurance companies may be skeptical if no report was filed. A police report provides an official record of the accident.
Identifies key evidence: Police officers document critical details that may otherwise be forgotten or disputed.
Assigns preliminary fault: While not legally binding, the officer’s opinion on who caused the crash can be persuasive.
Helps with insurance negotiations: Insurance adjusters often rely on police reports to evaluate claims. Without one, they may try to deny or reduce your compensation.
If a police report was not filed, our attorneys can still help gather the necessary evidence to prove your case. We will work tirelessly to fight for the compensation you deserve after your accident.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in CA?
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to file before the deadline may result in losing your right to recover compensation. It is crucial to consult with a skilled lawyer as soon as you can. This will ensure your claim is filed on time and appropriately.
Get Help Filing a Car Accident Claim in California
If you were injured in a car accident and don’t have a police report – don’t worry. You still have legal options. At JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and resources to build your strongest case and secure compensation for your injuries. Contact us today or call us at (833) 852-3600 to schedule a free consultation and get started down the path to recovery.
Our main office is in Encino, CA, but we serve all through Los Angeles County.
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | February 11, 2025 | Car Accidents
Witnessing a car accident can be a startling experience, and knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference. When you see an accident, your actions can help save lives, preserve vital evidence, and even protect your legal rights later on. This blog post explains what to do if you witness a car accident and offers practical guidance for acting safely and responsibly.
Stay Safe and Assess the Situation
Before you do anything else, ensure your own safety. The scene of an accident can be chaotic, and you should not put yourself at risk. Take a moment to assess the situation from a safe distance before taking any further action.
Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and keep your emotions under control.
Find a Safe Spot: If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road or a safe location away from the accident scene.
Observe the Surroundings: Look for any hazards like oncoming traffic, fire, or debris that could pose a risk.
There is always a balance between being helpful and staying safe. Your safety is paramount, and you should only approach the scene if you can do so without endangering yourself.
Call 911 Immediately
The first action you should take after witnessing a crash is to call 911. Alerting emergency services is essential for getting help to the scene quickly. When you call, provide clear and precise information to the operator.
Give Your Location: Clearly state the exact address or nearby landmarks.
Describe the Accident: Explain how many vehicles are involved and mention any injuries you can see.
Stay on the Line: Follow the operator’s instructions and answer any additional questions.
Once you have relayed this information, remain on the phone until the operator tells you it is okay to hang up. It is important to act quickly when calling 911 so that first responders can reach the scene as soon as possible. Your clear communication can help save lives.
Provide Clear and Accurate Information
When emergency services arrive, they will rely on witnesses like you for accurate details about what happened. Your description can be critical in helping them manage the scene and provide the right care.
Detail the Events: Explain what you saw happen before, during, and after the accident.
Note Any Specific Details: Mention vehicle colors, any damage visible on the cars, and the condition of the drivers.
Report Hazards: Inform them if there are spills, debris, or any dangerous conditions present.
After giving this information, stay available to answer any follow-up questions from the responders or the police. Accurate details help emergency personnel and investigators piece together the events of the accident, so it is important to be precise in your account.
Offer Assistance If It Is Safe
If you are trained in first aid, you may offer assistance, but be aware that acting without training may cause unintentional harm. In many jurisdictions, Good Samaritan laws provide legal protection for individuals who assist in emergencies, but you should be mindful of your own limitations.
Provide Comfort: If someone is injured and you are nearby, offer reassurance until help arrives.
Direct Traffic Cautiously: If you notice heavy traffic interfering with emergency response, you may help guide vehicles safely away from the scene.
Assist With Minor First Aid: Only if you are trained and it is safe, offer basic first aid without moving injured individuals.
After offering assistance, allow professionals to take over as soon as they arrive. Your willingness to help can be invaluable, but remember that professional responders are best equipped to handle injuries.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers of JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Witnessing a car accident can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can help save lives and protect your rights. Stay safe, call 911, provide accurate information, offer assistance if you are safe, and collect evidence without interfering with emergency services. If you later have questions or need legal advice regarding your role as a witness, consider reaching out to a trusted personal injury attorney.
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | February 3, 2025 | Car Accidents
California is a large state with thousands of miles of roads, highways, and interstates within its borders. The state also has one of the nation’s highest numbers of traffic fatalities. From Sacramento to Encino, CA, thousands of people die in motor vehicle accidents annually. Some of these deadly collisions happen on highways you and others use daily.
What Are the Most Dangerous Roads in California?
There are several ways to identify and rank the deadliest highways in California, but the easiest method is to look for those places that have a significant number of fatal wrecks. When looking for those highways that had some of the highest numbers of car accidents resulting in death, the following stretches of roadway stand out.
Interstate 15
Interstate 15’s southern end meets with Interstate 8 near San Diego, and its northern end is at the country’s northern border with Canada. However, the portion of this highway that runs through San Bernardino County has the distinction of being the deadliest stretch of highway in the entire state. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, 48 people died in traffic collisions along this portion of I-15.
Interstate 5
Interstate 5 is not just one of the most dangerous highways in California but in the country as well. It runs north-south from San Diego County to the U.S.-Canadian border. Within California, this highway passes through San Diego County and Orange County, where a combined total of 37 traffic deaths occurred, according to the NHTSA.
Interstate 10
Another of the state’s deadliest highways is I-10. This east-west highway runs from Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean to Jacksonville, Florida. The California segment connects Los Angeles with other cities like Palm Springs, Beaumont, and Calimesa.
According to the NHTSA, there were 31 traffic-related deaths on I-10 in 2022 within Riverside County alone. An additional 14 deaths occurred that same year along the stretch of I-10 that runs through Los Angeles County.
US-101
U.S. Highway 101 runs for over 1,500 miles, but it is the portion that passes through Santa Barbara County that is problematic from a safety standpoint. This segment had 15 traffic fatalities in 2022, according to the NHTSA. That same year, 2,557 people were injured or killed in motor vehicle accidents throughout Santa Barbara County.
This highway in California also passes through Santa Clara County. In 2022, Highway 101 was the site of 13 additional traffic-related deaths in Santa Clara County, according to the NHTSA.
Interstate 880
NHTSA statistics show that fourteen people lost their lives along Interstate 880 in Alameda County alone in 2022. That number equates to approximately one person dying for every four miles of interstate. These numbers are all the more surprising, considering that I-880 is less than 50 miles in length.
State Route 4
State Route 4 is the only California state route to make the list of the state’s most dangerous highways. This road runs 197 miles from San Francisco to State Route 89. Along its way, State Route 4 passes through Contra Costa County. In 2022, 13 individuals lost their lives in traffic crashes in this county on State Route 4, according to NHTSA information.
What Can Be Done About California’s Dangerous Roads?
The highways identified as being the most dangerous in the state carry a large volume of traffic every day, sometimes across multiple states. There is no simple way to make these stretches of highway safer overnight. The sheer number of cars and trucks that use these roads means there will always be an elevated risk of traffic deaths and injuries.
Nonetheless, drivers can reduce their personal risk of harm by driving defensively and remaining fully aware of the dangers these roads pose. This improves the chances of drivers reaching their destinations safely rather than becoming involved in another deadly crash.
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JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | December 11, 2024 | Car Accidents
Discovering that someone hit your parked car is a frustrating experience. Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents involving parked cars in Sherman Oaks are all too common. Whether your car was hit in a parking lot, on a street, or at night, knowing the steps to take after can help you recover compensation. Here is what to do if someone hits your parked car and leaves:
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
Try to remain calm as the initial shock of the incident fades. Take a moment to assess the scene and any visible damage. This may include dents, scratches, broken lights, or damage to mirrors or bumpers. Check the surrounding area to see if someone left a note with their contact and insurance information.
Step 2: Document the Scene Thoroughly
Proper documentation is critical for filing a future insurance claim, especially if the driver left the scene and cannot be identified. Use your phone to take photos of the damage to your vehicle. Pay attention to the location where it was parked and any skid marks or debris nearby.
Someone may have witnessed the accident, so ask people who are around. Business owners or property managers may also be able to check their security cameras to identify a driver who fled the scene.
Step 3: Report the Accident to the Police
It is important to file a police report for a hit-and-run involving your parked car. An official car accident report can help with future insurance claims, even if the damage appears to be minor. Describe the damage and details about the location and time of the incident. You should also share any potential evidence you have, such as photos or videos. The police will document the incident in an official report and investigate it further if there is a chance of identifying the driver.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run. Provide them with all the documentation, including the police report number and photos of the damage.
The type of coverage you have will determine how repairs are handled:
Collision Coverage: Your insurance will cover the damage to your vehicle – barring your deductible – regardless of who was at fault.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage:California requires all auto insurance carriers to offer uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage unless you sign a waiver to decline it. This coverage can help pay for medical bills if the responsible driver is uninsured or cannot be identified. However, uninsured motorist property damage coverage is optional, so check your policy to ensure you’re covered for vehicle repairs.
Deductibles: Be aware that you may need to pay a deductible for repairs. If the damage is minor and the repair costs are close to your deductible, it may be cheaper to pay out-of-pocket instead of filing a claim.
A lawyer in Sherman Oaks can help you review the specifics of your policy.
What Are The Penalties for Hit and Run in California?
Under California Vehicle Code Section 20002, if a driver leaves the scene of an accident that only resulted in property damage, such as hitting a parked car, and fails to identify themselves, they may face:
A fine of up to $1,000
Up to 6 months in county jail
Other penalties
Even if the damage seems minor, a driver who fails to fulfill their legal obligations can face serious consequences.
Will My Car Insurance Premium Increase If Someone Hits My Parked Car?
After discovering damage to your car, one of the most common concerns is whether your car insurance premium will increase. The answer depends on several factors, including the circumstances of the accident and whether the responsible party is identified. Your premium typically will not increase if you are not at fault for the accident. However, the specific outcome depends on your insurer, the type of claim you file, and your claims history.
Contact the Encino Car Accident Lawyers of JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | December 3, 2024 | Car Accidents
Getting into a car accident is stressful, but knowing what to do afterward can help you navigate the situation smoothly. One of the most important steps in the aftermath is making a police report. In Tarzana, California, filing a police report is not only important for your legal protection but often required for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. In this post, we’ll explain how to make a police report after a car accident in Tarzana, California.
If you or a loved one need further assistance after you have reported your car accident, be sure to contact a personal injury attorney for help assessing your legal options.
When to Call the Police
According to California Vehicle Code Section 20008, you are required to report a car accident to the police if there are injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000. If someone is injured or there is significant damage to the vehicles or property, you should call the police immediately.
Even if the accident is minor, with no injuries and damage below $1,000, it’s still a good idea to file a report. A police report can help with insurance claims and protect your legal rights.
After ensuring everyone’s safety (e.g., moving to a safe location, if possible), you need to contact the police. In Tarzana, the local police department, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) West Valley Division, handles most accident reports. However, if you’re involved in a collision on a freeway or state highway, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) may respond.
The LAPD West Valley Division Non-Emergency Number is (818) 374-7611. You should call 911 for emergencies. When you call, provide the following information:
Location of the accident (including cross streets or nearby landmarks)
Details of the accident (number of vehicles, injuries, etc.)
Your contact information (name, address, phone number)
Description of the vehicles involved (make, model, color)
Stay calm and provide clear, accurate information. The police will need details to assess the situation and respond appropriately.
What Happens When the Police Arrive?
Once the police arrive, they will begin gathering information from the drivers, passengers, and any witnesses. They will take photographs, make diagrams, and assess the scene. The officer will prepare a police report that includes:
Information about the people involved in the accident (names, contact info)
Witness statements
A diagram of the accident scene
The officer’s observations (including potential fault or violations)
Even if you’re unsure about specific details, don’t worry. The police will handle the investigation to ensure an accurate report is created.
How Do I Get a Copy of the Police Report?
After the police file their report, you can request a copy. Typically, you can obtain the report within a few days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.
To request a copy of the police report in Tarzana, you can:
Visit the LAPD West Valley Division at 19020 Vanowen St, Reseda, CA 91335.
Call the LAPD West Valley Division to inquire about the process.
There may be a small fee for the report, and you will need the case number, which the officer will give you at the scene. If you don’t have the case number, you may need to provide details like the date and location of the accident.
Why Is a Police Report Important?
A police report serves several critical purposes, including the following:
Insurance claims: Your insurance company will often require a police report to process your claim. It helps the insurer determine fault and the extent of the damage.
Legal protection: To file a legal claim or if the accident leads to a lawsuit, the police report is an important piece of evidence. Lawyers will use the case to assess your compensation.
Accurate record: A police report provides an official, unbiased account of the accident. This can prevent confusion or disputes about the details.
Having an official police report also helps ensure that your version of events is documented, which can be useful if there are disagreements about who caused the accident.
What If the Police Don’t Respond?
In some cases, particularly if the accident involves minor damage or no injuries, the police may not respond. In these instances, you can file a self-report with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or LAPD. You will need to fill out a Traffic Accident Report (Form SR 1), which is often required by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if there is property damage or injury. You can submit this form in person or online, depending on the circumstances.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer for Help
Making a police report after a car accident in Tarzana, California, is an essential step in protecting your rights, helping your insurance claim, and ensuring there is an official record of what happened. Whether you’re dealing with a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, a police report can be crucial to resolving the situation.
By following the steps discussed above, you can navigate the aftermath of an accident with confidence and ensure that your rights are protected. If you have questions about police reports or need help with your case, contact JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation.
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JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | November 12, 2024 | Car Accidents
Navigating the right of way at 4-way stop intersections can be confusing and dangerous if drivers ignore or don’t know the rules. In places like Encino, car accidents happen often at these intersections because drivers might not know who has the right of way at a four-way stop.
Basics of a Four-Way Stop
Four-way stops exist to control the flow of traffic at intersections that don’t have stop lights. They’re regulated by four-way stop sign rules, where drivers and cyclists from each direction have to come to a complete stop. Once stopped, they’re expected to follow specific rules about who should proceed first.
However, figuring out at a 4-way stop who has the right-of-way can depend on timing, position, and sometimes even situational judgment calls.
Most people are familiar with the term California stop (also called a “rolling stop”). It’s a common practice in which a vehicle slows down and rolls through the stop sign without coming to a complete stop. It might seem harmless enough, but it’s actually quite dangerous. Knowing how to properly and safely react to stop signs can help reduce the risk of collisions.
Rules for a Four-Way Stop
California law lays out 4-way intersection rules to clarify how people should behave in such interactions.
These rules include:
First-Come, First-Served: If more than one car comes to the stop sign, whoever got there first should proceed first
Right Goes First: When two cars get there at the same time, the one on the right has the right of way
Straight Over Turning: When two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver going straight has the right of way over any cars making a turn
Left Goes Last: Left turns are inherently more risky than going straight or turning right, so the driver intending to turn left should yield to all other drivers and take their turn last
Some of these rules might seem counterintuitive at first, but they actually help to ensure a smooth flow when everyone follows them correctly.
Special Situations
While these rules cover most typical scenarios, certain situations can complicate things in real-world traffic. So, in these cases, how does a four-way stop sign work?
Pedestrians always have the right of way regardless of other vehicle traffic, so drivers at four-way stops have to yield to anyone crossing the street. This means that even if you technically have the right to move, safety for pedestrians takes priority. Drivers have to wait until they clear the intersection.
When several cars arrive at the same time, there can be confusion and delays. Eye contact and hand signals can help in such cases. However, drivers still have to prioritize safety and be patient so that each driver has their turn.
If an emergency vehicle approaches, all other drivers have to give the right of way to let them pass through the intersection unhindered. Even if it’s not directly behind you, yielding to emergency responders is required by law and necessary for everyone’s safety.
California Laws
State laws on four-way stops emphasize that drivers have to come to a full stop and continue on only when it’s safe to do so. Drivers who roll through intersections not only break the law but also put themselves and everyone else at risk. Failing to stop can cause a crash if another driver is expecting you to stop completely.
Fines and legal consequences for failing to properly stop can be costly, especially if someone gets hurt in the process.
Mastering the Four-Way Stop
Four-way stops are designed to manage traffic flow and protect everyone who uses the roads. For Encino drivers, these intersections might be familiar, but it’s easy to get confused. Knowing who has the right of way at a 4-way stop can help minimize confusion and improve overall safety.
Contact the Encino Car Accident Lawyers of JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
