A crash can happen in seconds: a fender-bender in a parking lot, a sudden stop on the 91, or a driver who runs a light. Even a small accident can leave you shaken and unsure what to do first. Keep this checklist on your phone. The steps are the same whether you think you caused the accident or not.
1. Stop and make sure everyone is safe
California law requires you to stop when you are involved in an accident. Leaving the scene can be a hit-and-run, a crime with serious penalties.
- If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. The Vehicle Code requires drivers in an injury accident to give reasonable help to anyone injured, including arranging a ride to medical care when it is clearly needed or requested.
- If no one is hurt, the DMV says to move your vehicle out of traffic, then call 911 if needed. For a property-damage-only accident, the law says to stop at the nearest location that will not block traffic or put other drivers in danger. Moving your car does not affect who is at fault.
- Turn on your hazard lights. If it is unsafe to stand near the road, stay in your car with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
2. Exchange information
The DMV says to show your driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance information, and current address to the other driver, law enforcement, and anyone else involved. Collect the same from them:
- Full name, address, and phone number of each driver
- Driver's license number
- License plate number, and vehicle make, model, and color
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Registered owner's name and address, if different from the driver
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
If you hit a parked car or other property and cannot find the owner, leave a note with your name and address (and, per the DMV, your phone number), attach it securely to the vehicle or property, and report the collision to the local police or, in unincorporated areas, the California Highway Patrol.
3. Document the scene
Photos help you, your insurance company, and anyone reviewing the claim later. If it is safe:
- Take wide photos showing where the cars ended up, plus close-ups of all damage.
- Photograph the other car's license plate and the insurance card (with permission).
- Capture street signs, traffic lights, skid marks, weather, and road conditions.
- Write down the date, time, exact location, and what happened while it is fresh.
- If police respond, ask for the officer's name, badge number, and a report number.
4. Stick to the facts. Don't admit fault
It is natural to say "I'm sorry," but at the scene you may not know everything that caused the crash. Be polite, check on people, and share the required information, but avoid statements like "It was all my fault." Describe what happened honestly to police and to your insurance company, and let the insurance companies investigate. Also avoid agreeing to pay anyone privately at the scene before talking to your insurer.
5. Report to law enforcement when required
The DMV Driver's Handbook says you must make a report to law enforcement within 24 hours if anyone is injured or killed. Your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative can also file the report.
6. File the SR-1 with the DMV within 10 days, if required
This is the step many drivers don't know about. According to the DMV, you (or your insurance agent, broker, or legal representative) must file a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR-1) with the DMV within 10 days if:
- Anyone was injured, no matter how minor, or killed, or
- Property damage was more than $1,000.
Key points from the DMV:
- The SR-1 is required in addition to any report to the police, CHP, or your insurance company. Law enforcement will not file it for you.
- Each driver must file, whether or not they caused the collision, and it applies even on private property.
- Your driving privilege can be suspended if you fail to file.
You can file online at dmv.ca.gov/accidentreport. Have your license, plate number or VIN, and both drivers' insurance information ready.
If you were uninsured: the DMV says your driving privilege will be suspended for up to four years if you are in a collision without proper insurance, no matter who was at fault. See our guide to driving without insurance in California.
7. Notify your insurance company promptly
Call your insurance company, or call us, as soon as you can, even if you think the other driver was at fault or the damage looks minor. Most policies require prompt notice of an accident and your cooperation with the investigation. Late reporting can make a claim harder.
When you call, have ready: your policy number, the date, time, and location, the other driver's information, photos, witness names, and any police report number. Ask your insurer:
- What coverages apply (for example, collision, medical payments, uninsured motorist, or rental reimbursement), and what your deductible is.
- Whether you should get repair estimates, and whether you may choose the shop.
- Whether the SR-1 has been or will be filed on your behalf, or whether you should file it yourself.
8. Get checked and keep records
Some injuries show up hours or days later. If you feel pain, see a doctor. Keep copies of medical bills, repair estimates, rental receipts, and every letter or email about the claim in one folder. For questions about injuries, fault disputes, or a lawsuit, talk to a licensed California attorney.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to report a minor accident to the DMV? You must file an SR-1 within 10 days if anyone was injured (even slightly) or killed, or if property damage was more than $1,000. Repair costs add up quickly, so check estimates carefully before deciding a report isn't needed.
Does filing with my insurance company count as reporting to the DMV? No. The DMV says the SR-1 is required in addition to reports to police, CHP, or your insurer. Your agent, broker, or legal representative may file it for you, but confirm that it was done.
What if the other driver has no insurance? Uninsured motorist coverage, if you have it, may help with certain injuries, and uninsured motorist property damage may help with your car in some cases. Coverage depends on your policy. Learn more in our uninsured motorist coverage guide.
Should I tell the other driver the accident was my fault? Exchange the required information and be courteous, but avoid admitting fault at the scene. Give an honest account to police and your insurer, and let the insurers review the facts.
Need help after an accident?
Call or text Street Smart at (714) 736-9048. We can help you understand the next steps with your policy, in English or Spanish. Shopping for better coverage? Get a California auto insurance quote.
Official sources
- California DMV: Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR-1)
- California Driver's Handbook, Section 10: Financial Responsibility, Insurance Requirements, and Collisions
- California Vehicle Code § 16000 (accident reports)
- California Vehicle Code § 20001, § 20002, § 20003
Educational information: This article is general information, not legal advice. Coverage depends on your policy and your insurance company. For injury claims or disputes about fault, consult a licensed California attorney.
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