Many people are unsure of whether or not they should call the police. Some might think it’s only necessary for major accidents, while others may feel that contacting the authorities could complicate matters. In reality, calling the police can be important to protecting your rights and having proper documentation of the incident.
When You Should Call the Police
In California, there are certain situations where contacting the police is not just recommended—it is legally required. You should call the police if:
- There are Injuries
If anyone involved in the accident has sustained injuries, no matter how minor, you should contact the police right away. Whether it is a serious injury or a minor one, having an official report can protect you if injuries turn out to be more severe than initially thought. It is also required by law to report accidents that involve injuries.
- There is Significant Property Damage
Under California law, if there is more than $1,000 in property damage, the accident must be reported to the police. While it might be hard to estimate the cost of damage at the scene, if there’s visible damage to any vehicles or property, it’s better to be safe and involve law enforcement. The police report can help settle disputes over repairs later on.
- The Other Driver is Uncooperative
If the other driver refuses to provide insurance information, becomes hostile, or appears to be under the influence, you should immediately contact the police. The officers can help de-escalate the situation and make sure that all necessary information is exchanged. This also provides an official record of any unusual behavior or impairment.
- The Accident Involves a Hit-and-Run
In the event of a hit-and-run, you should always contact the police. Even if the damage seems minimal, it is important to report it to authorities. A hit-and-run is a crime, and the police will need to investigate.
When You May Not Need to Call the Police
In some minor accidents, it may not be necessary to contact the police. However, use your judgment carefully. You may choose not to call the police if:
- There are No Injuries
In accidents where no one is injured and the damage is very minor (for example, a small fender-bender with no visible damage), you might be able to settle the situation without police involvement. However, be sure that both parties exchange insurance information, contact details, and take photos of the damage just in case issues arise later.
- The Accident Occurs on Private Property
If an accident occurs on private property (such as a parking lot), the police may not respond since it is not on a public road. In these cases, you should still document everything and exchange information with the other driver. Some police departments will allow you to file an online report later if needed.
What to Expect When You Call the Police
Once you call the police after an accident, officers will typically arrive at the scene to assess the situation. Here’s what you can expect:
- Gathering Information: The responding officer will interview both drivers and any witnesses. They will ask for your license, registration, and insurance information, so have these ready.
- Documenting the Scene: Officers will examine the accident scene, take note of any road conditions, vehicle damage, and other relevant factors. They may also take photos and measurements.
- Filing a Report: The officer will complete a police report, which will include their observations, statements from those involved, and a description of what they believe occurred. In most cases, you can request a copy of this report later, which may be important for your insurance claim or if you decide to pursue legal action.
Why Calling the Police Is Important
Calling the police after an accident can provide several key benefits:
- Official Documentation
The police report serves as an official record of the incident. This document can be critical if there are disagreements about what happened or if you need to prove fault later. Insurance companies often rely heavily on police reports to process claims.
- Protection from False Claims
Having law enforcement at the scene can protect you if the other driver tries to change their story or deny liability after the fact. An officer’s objective account of the situation can make it harder for anyone to misrepresent the facts later.
- Assistance in High-Stress Situations
Accidents can be stressful, and tensions can run high between the parties involved. Having a police officer on the scene helps make sure that things remain civil and that all necessary information is exchanged.
- Legal Compliance
As mentioned earlier, you are required by law to report accidents in certain situations. Failing to do so could lead to fines or penalties, which is why it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and report the accident if you are unsure.
Take the Right Steps After Your Accident
If you have been in an accident and are unsure of the next steps, our team at The Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your options and get the support you need.
