California Car Accident Facts




    

 

 

 

When you have a California car accident,
report it to DMV within 10 days if:

  • More than $750 in damage was done to the property of any person.
  • Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.

Each driver (or the driver’s insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must make a report to DMV using California Traffic Accident Report form SR 1. The CHP or police will not make this report for you. Call 1-800-777-0133 and ask for the SR 1 or go online at www.dmv.ca.gov .

You must make this report:

  • Whether or not you caused the car accident and
  • Even if the accident occurred on private property.

Your driving privilege will be suspended:

  • If you don't make this report.
  • For four years, if you did not have proper insurance coverage. During the last three years of the suspension, your license can be returned if you provide a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22) and maintain it during this period.

California Car Accidents On Your Record

Every accident reported to DMV by:

  • Law enforcement shows on your driving record unless the reporting officer says another person was at fault.
  • You, or another party in the accident, shows on your record if any one person has over $750 in damage or if anyone is injured or dies.

It does not matter who caused the accident, DMV must keep this record.

Accidents, Insurance, and Minors

If you are under 18 years of age, your parents sign your license application and assume financial responsibility for your driving unless they ask DMV to cancel your license. When you reach age 18, your parents’ liability automatically ends.

If you are involved in an car accident you may be liable for civil damages and you may also be fined.

* Low cost automobile policies are established for Los Angeles and San Francisco counties. Please contact your insurance agent

Traffic Accident Report (SR 1)

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