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Do I Have to Inform the Police If I am in a Motorcycle Accident?

Under California law, specific circumstances require you to notify the police after a crash. There are additional requirements for reporting an accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles as well.

Reporting your accident is only the first step to take. If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident in LA caused by another driver, you might be entitled to financial compensation. Let our attorneys of Salamati Law guide you through your personal injury claim.

Reporting an accident to the police

There are two important circumstances where an accident must be reported to the police. You are required under the California Vehicle Code to notify the police of an accident when:

  • The accident resulted in bodily injuries, or
  • The accident caused any deaths.

You have the option of reporting the accident to either the local police department where the accident happened or to the California Highway Patrol. You are required to do this within 24 hours.

If the police appear at the scene of the accident and make a written report, you do not have to formally file one. Given that police generally respond to accident scenes involving injuries or death, you will likely not need to report the crash to the police again.

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Reporting an accident to the DMV

Whether your accident was caused by an intoxicated motorist, reckless driving, or anything in between, you are required to report the accident to the DMV under the following circumstances:

  • It resulted in at least $1,000 in property damage,
  • It caused a death, or
  • It caused a bodily injury.

Reporting the accident to the DMV is necessary even if the police appear at the scene. You have 10 days to file it.

Reporting an accident to your insurance company

It is usually your duty to report the collision to your insurance company. No state law mandates reporting anything to your carrier. However, the language of your insurance policy likely requires you to notify them as soon as possible. This is true whether you intend to file a claim with them or not.

There can be steep consequences should you fail to do this. If you do not comply with the terms of your policy, your carrier could deny your claim. In some cases, your insurance company might even cancel your policy entirely.

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Contact our team of Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers

Reporting a motorcycle accident to the police and the DMV is a critical step. If you were hurt in the accident, it is also essential to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. At Salamati Law, we can advise you on your rights and help you pursue financial compensation for your injuries.

We understand what is at stake with a motorcycle accident injury claim. If you are ready to move forward with your case, contact us right away for a free consultation.

No Obligation, No Fees Guaranteed, Unless We Win

We are committed to negotiate your case aggressively, strategically and creatively. Personal injury lawsuits are retained on a contingency fee agreement, and plaintiffs will pay no legal fees unless the firm is able to recover damages on your behalf.

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