Should I report a minor car accident to the police?
Asked by: Dr. Anabel Connelly DDS | Last update: December 25, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (34 votes)
Should you call the police if you are in a car accident?
Under California Vehicle Code 20002 VC, you must notify police if an accident caused major property damage, such as: Damaging another vehicle to the extent that it is inoperable and needs towing.
How soon should an accident be reported to the police?
Immediate reporting. California law mandates that you report the accident to the police immediately if injuries or fatalities are involved or if the accident results in significant property damage (over $1,000). 24-hour reporting window.
How long after an accident can you file a police report in Colorado?
You must report a vehicle accident in Colorado within 60 days. In Colorado, a vehicle accident occurs anytime a collision results in property damage or injury to a person. Minor accidents may not require police intervention.
What happens if you don't call your insurance after an accident?
Failing to contact your insurance company shortly after being in a car accident can lead to them denying your claim. Waiting to contact your insurance company can also make it more difficult for the insurance company to investigate your case, which could lead to you receiving a lower settlement amount.
Should you report a minor car accident to the police?
Is it better to use your insurance or theirs?
After a car accident, you should notify your insurance company and file a claim, and not deal with the other driver's insurer. Except in rare circumstances, it is not wise to contact them. Your insurance company represents you, and the other driver's insurance company represents them.
What to do if someone claims you hit their car?
- Evaluate the Situation.
- Speak to the Other Party Politely.
- Take Photos and Videos.
- Gather Witnesses.
- Check for Nearby Cameras.
- Report the Incident.
- Explain Your Side Clearly.
- When to Consult an Attorney.
Will insurance report to police?
Insurance companies will often provide the reports, with the policyholder's authorization, to assist police in completing their official accident report and determining fault. However, without consent from the insured driver or owner of the vehicle, an insurance company cannot release the claim details or report.
What is the law on car accidents in Colorado?
Understanding Colorado's Fault and Liability Laws
The state operates on a fault-based insurance system. This means the driver who caused the accident is liable for damages. Injured parties can pursue compensation through the at-fault driver's insurance, their insurance, or a personal injury lawsuit.
Do you need a police report to file an insurance claim in Colorado?
No, a police report is not necessary to file an insurance claim in Colorado. You may simply contact your insurance company and tell them that there's been an accident.
What to do if you hit a parked car but no damage?
* Document the incident: Take photos of both vehicles, even if there's no visible damage. * Report the incident: If required by law in your area, report the incident to the police. Even if there's no visible damage, it's important to document the incident and exchange information.
What is the difference between a police report and an incident report?
A police report is always written from the perspective of the officer who initially responds to the call. The incident section of a police report includes sections with details of the case, including the offense type and criminal charges.
What happens when you call the police on accident?
In most cases when you call 9-1-1 from a cell phone and hang up, the line will still ring in dispatch and show your phone number. In that case the dispatcher will call you back and to verify that everything is okay.
How long do I have to report an accident AAA?
It's best to report an accident as soon as possible, but it doesn't have to be done at the accident site. When you're in a safe place and it's convenient, file a claim online anytime, day or night.
When someone rear ends you do you call your insurance or theirs?
If you get into a car accident, you are under no obligation to call another driver's insurance company to work out the claim. All you need to do is talk to your insurance provider when you get into an accident or if someone else hits your car, and they will handle the claim on your behalf.
Do I have to report an accident in Colorado?
Yes, you have to report an accident in Colorado. Colorado law 42-4-1606 requires all drivers to report a motor vehicle accident immediately.
Is Colorado a no fault accident state?
In Colorado, car accident claims follow fault rules instead of no-fault. This means that victims must base their cases on the fault of another party if they want to collect damages for their losses and pain.
What is legally considered an accident?
An accident is an unplanned, unintentional event that causes damage or injury. Accidents are unpredictable and occur without any intent or negligence. For example, a tree branch falling on a parked car during a storm in California would be considered an accident - there was no intent or negligence, just bad luck.
When someone hits you, do you call their insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or leaves the scene, your own insurance will pay if you have the right coverage. Always call your own insurance company, even if you think the other driver is at fault.
What happens when a car hits you from the side?
A side-impact collision can cause severe or even fatal injuries because drivers may not be aware of the incoming collision and therefore might be unable to brake or steer away to prevent the strike. The point of impact is closer to the driver when the crash occurs, potentially leading to broken bones and head injuries.
Do I call my insurance if I'm not at fault?
Yes. Regardless of fault, it is important to call your insurance company and report any accident that involves injuries or property damage. It is a common myth that you needn't contact your insurance company if you aren't at fault.
What to do if someone hits your car but no damage?
You Should Report Your Accident Even If There Was No Damage
It is important to obtain a copy as it serves as valuable evidence for your case. While the report attempts to document most of the issues related to the incident, it is never all-inclusive.
Does insurance pay if you hit someone?
If the situation is clear-cut, or one party admits that they caused the accident, the at-fault driver's auto insurance should pay for any property damage and medical bills, and in some cases compensation for other damages, such as pain and suffering.