How long do I have to report a car accident?

How long do I have to report a car accident?

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A traffic accident is an unpleasant experience that must be avoided, but unfortunately, it happens frequently. Even the most cautious people can be involved in such a situation, either due to the carelessness of other drivers, poor health, or environmental factors.

Whatever the case, each citizen must assume the risks and consequences that the mere activity of driving could entail. And even though this is warned before a license is issued, few know what to do in such a situation. The more significant issue is that this can have serious legal consequences in the short term.

An essential aspect is presenting the accident report to the relevant authorities, for example. How much time is available to present it to the nearest police department? Is it necessary to inform the insurance companies?

How much time is available to report a traffic accident to the authorities?

When a vehicle driver is involved in a traffic accident, they must report it to the relevant authorities as soon as possible. These would be the California Highway Patrol or the nearest Police Department; this, of course, if the officers did not arrive on the scene earlier. The time limit to report it is 24 hours.

When is it not necessary to inform the authorities about the accident?

As mentioned so far, in accordance with California law, the driver(s) involved in the traffic accident does not need to approach any institution to report it if the agents have already approached the place of the event to register it themselves.

When the agents arrive at the scene, they make a written report of what happened, taking into account what they observe for themselves and the testimony of each of the people involved.

Should a traffic accident be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)?

California Vehicle Code § 1806 (CVC) states that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) must record traffic accidents under the Financial Responsibility Act, even when guilt is involved.

Simply put, traffic accidents that occur on a state street, highway, or private property must be reported to the DMV. This entity will be in charge of filing the reports, which could serve as evidence for future claims or negotiations with insurance.

Under California law, several criteria warrant compliance with this statute. When one or more people are injured during the accident, if someone dies or if the property damage caused by the accident exceeds $ 1,000, in any of these cases, the person in charge must fill out the SR1 form available on the DMV website, deliver it and keep a copy as a backup in case of need.

The persons involved must submit said form to the DMV regardless of their fault, as indicated by the same department on the template. Additionally, the report must be made consistent with any other reporting of the accident to an insurance company and other law enforcement agency.

How long does it take to report to the DMV?

As for the time, as indicated by the same department, this report must be made at least within ten days after the accident. This period must be respected, especially if injuries, death, or property damage exceeded $1,000 in expenses.

As it is a legal statute, it is to be expected that non-compliance will carry consequences for those involved. In this regard, the DMV reminds that reporting outside of that period could result in the suspension of the driver’s license and, consequently, in limitations on the use of motorized vehicles.

How long can a claim for injury or damage to the vehicle be filed?

As has already been indicated, the damages derived from a traffic accident are numerous and can be momentous in the lives of those involved. A person can even file a claim for injuries or damage to their vehicle, although the time available to do so can vary significantly depending on the case.

Injury lawsuits can be implemented within two years from the date the accident occurred. For its part, lawsuits related to damage to the vehicle can be filed within a period of three years from that moment.

Is an attorney needed to address the consequences of a car accident?

Once the issue of the times has been clarified, it is convenient to highlight the importance of obtaining adequate legal advice to handle these cases. Although many drivers have their vehicle insured, few know the particular characteristics of their type of coverage.

Added to this is the seriousness of the consequences of the traffic accident in question. When injured people need treatment for months or even years, it is best to turn to experts in these matters to reach a mutual agreement.An attorney will be your best option in these cases. Honesty is a crucial point to get the most out of it and get the maximum compensation for the accident. If this is your case, Kannan Law Firm can provide you with the right professional to protect your rights. Click here and contact us.