Traffic Collision Information
Traffic Accident Information
If you are involved in a traffic collision -- STOP. If you do not stop, you may be convicted of "hit and run."
Check for injuries– If you or anyone else are injured, DO NOT MOVE them or the vehicles unless necessary to remove them from danger.
Call 911 as soon as possible - Advise the dispatcher of your exact location and whether or not there are injuries.
If there are no injuries – If no one is injured and you can safely do so, move the involved vehicles out of the roadway as soon as possible to avoid chain reaction or "rubber necker" collisions.
In California, a police report is not required unless the collision results in injury or death. If you chose to file a report, the information is reported to DMV and will be reflected on each driver's DMV history regardless of fault. The "at fault" party may also be subject to citation for the violation that caused the collision.
If the damage is over $750 and/or there are injuries, an SR-1 form must be completed and filed with the DMV within 10 days.
SR-1 Form
You must show your driver's license, registration card, evidence of financial responsibility (insurance company and policy number), and provide your current address to the other driver or persons involved, or to any police officer.
Try to find the owner if you hit a parked vehicle or other property. Identify yourself before you leave. If you can't find the owner, leave a note with your name and address (and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle you are driving) in the vehicle or securely attached to it. Report the accident without delay.
