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What should I do after a car accident in California?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-04-30

California is the largest at-fault (tort) auto insurance state, governed by the Vehicle Code and the California Insurance Code.

1. Immediate Steps at the Scene

  • Stop, render aid, and exchange information (Veh. Code §§ 20001-20003). Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a felony hit-and-run.
  • Call 911 if anyone is injured or vehicles cannot be moved safely.
  • Photograph damage, the scene, license plates, and visible injuries.
  • Get names, addresses, insurance, and contact info of all drivers and witnesses.

    • 2. Mandatory Reporting

  • Police: Required for any injury, death, or if the other driver leaves.
  • DMV (Form SR-1): Required within 10 days for any crash with injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 (Veh. Code § 16000). Failure can result in license suspension.
  • Your insurer: Notify promptly under your policy's cooperation clause.

    • 3. Minimum Liability Insurance

    For policies issued before Jan. 1, 2025: 15/30/5 ($15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident / $5,000 property damage). Effective January 1, 2025 under SB 1107: 30/60/15.

    4. Pure Comparative Negligence

    California follows pure comparative negligence (Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 13 Cal. 3d 804 (1975)). Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover even if you are 99% at fault.

    5. Statute of Limitations

  • Personal injury: 2 years (CCP § 335.1).
  • Property damage: 3 years (CCP § 338).
  • Claims against a public entity require an administrative claim within 6 months (Gov. Code § 911.2).

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • You suffered serious injury, surgery, or any hospitalization
    • The other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or disputes fault
    • A government vehicle or public entity was involved (6-month claim deadline)
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Cal. Veh. Code § 16000
    • Cal. Veh. Code § 20001
    • Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 335.1
    • Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 338
    • Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.