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?
Under California law, drivers must report a car accident to police if:
- The accident resulted in an injury or death.
- 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
16633 Ventura Blvd suite 1011,
Encino, CA 91436
