Should I Call 911 After a Car Accident in San Diego?
David Muñoz | February 2, 2023 | Car Accidents
Every year, thousands of car accidents occur around the world. Even the slightest collisions or fender benders can cause significant damage and injuries to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
It is essential to report these incidents to the authorities so they can be properly handled and documented. The process of reporting car accidents may seem daunting, but it is an important part of keeping the roads safe for everyone.
Reporting Car Accidents in San Diego
If you are ever involved in an accident in California, it is important to know the legal requirements for reporting the incident.
Under California law, a driver involved in an accident must report it to the police department or the California Highway Patrol if the crash resulted in any injuries or fatalities. However, these rules do not apply if a patrolman or law enforcement officer comes to the scene and prepares an official accident report.
That being said, even if a police officer does come to the scene of your accident and prepares a written report, it is still important to notify the DMV within ten days if: (1) there was property damage of $1,000 or greater, (2) someone was injured, or (3) a person dies in the accident.
Why You Should Always Call the Police After a Car Accident – Even If It’s Not Required
Even if you’ve been in a minor car accident, it’s a good idea to call the police. A police report can be very helpful for insurance claims and any potential lawsuits that may arise from the accident.
When you call the police after a car accident, they will respond to the scene and document what happened. They will take statements from all parties involved and assess who was at fault. This can be beneficial because it gives you an objective witness to back up your account of events if there is ever any dispute about what happened when dealing with insurance companies or the court.
Other Steps You Need To Take After an Accident
It’s important to know what to do in the immediate aftermath to protect yourself and others. Here’s what you should do after a car accident:
Check for injuries: The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to get medical help.
Move to a safe location: If your car is still operational, move it to the side of the road or to a safe location. If your car is not operational, turn on your emergency blinkers and wait for help to arrive.
Exchange information: Exchange information with the other driver, including name, address, phone number, and license and insurance information. Make sure to also note the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle.
Take photos: Use your phone or camera to take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident, as well as any other relevant details such as skid marks or traffic signals.
Notify your insurance company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and start the claims process. Make sure to have all the information you’ve collected on hand, including the other driver’s information and the police report.
Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident to make sure.
Consult an attorney: After you’ve recovered from the accident, you should reach out to a car accident lawyer in San Diego to see if you have a valid claim to recover compensation.
Being involved in an auto accident can be stressful—even if there doesn’t appear to be much damage done. But knowing your legal obligations in these situations can help minimize your stress level significantly. If you need help after a car accident in San Diego, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today to schedule a free consultation.
Contact the San Diego Car Accident Law Firm of Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.
We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032
We also serve the state of Texas. Contact our personal injury law office in El Paso for legal assistance today.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000
