The first thing important to understand about the California DMV accident report is the circumstances in which you need to do it. Those circumstances are:
- If the accident you suffered caused property damage of more than $1,000.
- If any of those involved suffered serious injuries.
- If the accident caused any deaths.
If any of these conditions are met, you have up to ten (10) days from the accident date to report it to the DMV. It is also important to know that you are required to make this report regardless of whether or not you were the one who caused the accident and even if it happened on private property.
If you have any questions or want to speak with car accident attorneys, call Broadway Law at (888) 824-1025. We’re personal injury lawyers with over 35 years of experience, and our service is 100% in Spanish.
How to Report an Accident to the DMV (California 2024)
Reporting your accident to the DMV is quite simple: you must fill out the SR-1 report form online. You can also print the form in PDF format, fill it out, and send it to the DMV department of the county where the accident occurred. Please note that paper submissions may take longer to process.
What is Form SR-1?
Form SR-1, also known as the California Traffic Accident Report, is an essential document for the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as it allows them to collect information about the accident and verify that you had adequate insurance at the time of the accident. This information may have an impact on your accident claim.
What Information is Asked on the SR-1?
The SR-1 form asks for basic information about the accident, such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of the drivers and passengers involved. You must also provide your insurance information, including your policy number and company name.
The SR-1 will ask you for more detailed information if the accident results in injuries or fatalities. This includes the name and contact information of the injured persons or the family of the deceased, as well as the severity of the injuries or the cause of death.
Why is it Important to Complete the SR-1?
Completing this form accurately and completely is essential to avoid delays in the compensation claim process. Failure to report the accident to the DMV could lead to fines and penalties that could affect your ability to file a claim.
Is There Any Other Way to Report the Accident to the DMV?
Yes. You can fill out the following form and request that Broadway Law professionals report the accident for you. Once you complete the form, our professionals will contact you to provide details on the next steps. Please note that this service is currently only available for the State of California: