Car
ACCIDENT Lawyers
Injured in a car accident in California? We protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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If you've been injured, contact the personal injury lawyers at KR Law Group today for a FREE no obligation consultation. Remember, we don't get paid until you do.
CALIFORNIA CAR ACCIDENTS
California law requires drivers to report accidents to the CHP or local police within 24 hours if they involve injury or death. If property damage exceeds $1,000 — or anyone is injured — you must also file Form SR-1 with the DMV within 10 days. Failure to comply can result in fines, license revocation, or criminal charges. Seeking legal counsel after any car accident is always advisable.
Why You Need an Attorney
Reporting the accident is only the first step. Navigating insurance claims, preserving evidence, and protecting your rights requires experienced legal guidance — especially when insurance companies push back.
Police reports are not automatically shared with insurers. You can direct your attorney to submit Form SR-1 on your behalf.
Find out what your case could be worth — free consultation.
REPORTING OFF-HIGHWAY ACCIDENTS
California's reporting requirements apply regardless of where the accident occurred — whether on a public road, private property, or parking lot.
Police Report Required
Drivers must report to the CHP or local police within 24 hours if the accident involves bodily injury or death, even on private property.
DMV Form SR-1
If property damage exceeds $1,000 or anyone is injured, Form SR-1 must be filed with the DMV within 10 days — on or off highway.
Insurance Notification
While not always legally required, many insurance policies require prompt notification. Consult an attorney before making any statements.
Example:
Off-highway accidents — such as those in parking lots or on private land — follow different reporting rules, but the consequences for failing to report are equally serious.
Not sure what you need to report? We can walk you through every step.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT
California has specific reporting deadlines after an accident. Your actions in the first 24 hours are critical for your claim and your legal standing.
WHAT FORM SR-1 REQUIRES
Form SR-1 is an official California DMV document required within 10 days when property damage exceeds $1,000 or there is any injury or death (CA Vehicle Code §16000).
General Accident Information
1Date, time, and specific location of the accident — including city and county
Insurance Details
2Policy number, carrier name, policy period, and policyholder name for all vehicles involved
Damages & Injuries
3Name and address of each victim, type of harm (injury, death, or property damage), and each person's connection to the accident
CONSEQUENCES OF NOT FILING
California Vehicle Code §16004 authorizes the state to take serious action against your driving privileges if you fail to file within the required timeframe.
License Suspension
The DMV may suspend your driver's license for failure to file Form SR-1 within the required 10-day window.
Insurance Coverage Risk
Failure to notify your insurance company in time may affect your ability to file a claim under your own policy.
Legal Liability Exposure
Failing to report an accident does not eliminate your legal liability — it can in fact weaken your legal position.
You can direct your insurance company or attorney to submit Form SR-1 on your behalf — letting us handle the paperwork while you focus on recovery.
HOW KR INJURY LAW FIRM CAN HELP
We provide full legal assistance if you are involved in a car accident in California — from your first call to final resolution.
Insurance Communication
We communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you're not taken advantage of during the claims process.
Accident Investigation
We interview witnesses, examine physical evidence, and analyze available photographs and videos to establish liability and build your case.
Settlement Negotiation
We negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Litigation
If necessary, we file a lawsuit and represent you in court, arguing on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.
Our law firm can provide invaluable assistance after a California car accident. We help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.