No Police Report After a Crash? Here’s What That Means for Your Claim

If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know how quickly everything becomes a blur—exchanging information, checking for injuries, calling a tow truck. Amid all that chaos, it’s easy to forget one key step: a police report. So, let’s suppose you didn’t call the authorities; can you file an insurance claim without a police report?

The short answer is yes—but it’s not ideal. While it’s possible to move forward with a car insurance claim without a police report, skipping that step can make things much harder down the line. In this article, we’ll discuss why that report matters, when it’s required under car accident laws in California, and what happens if you don’t have one.

No Police Report? Here’s What Could Happen

Under California law, drivers must report an accident to law enforcement if anyone is injured or killed, or if there’s property damage over $1,000. You’re also required to file a report with the California DMV within 10 days if those conditions apply. Failing to do so can lead to some very serious consequences, such as fines or license-related issues. In serious cases, it might even affect your ability to recover full compensation.

A police report is an official, third-party account of what happened. It includes details like the date, time, and location of the crash, witness statements, photos, and other relevant information. So, what happens if you don't call the police? Filing a claim without a police report depends on the situation. For example, if it was a small fender bender with no injuries, then you can still file a claim. Just make sure you have plenty of other documentation.

Remember, the more proof you have, the better your chances of a successful claim. Without a police report, they might take longer to process your claim, or they might question who was really at fault. Having clear, organized evidence—such as photos, written statements, and repair estimates—can help show the insurance company you’re serious and that your version of events is accurate.

When You Should Always Get a Police Report

When you file a car insurance claim, that report helps back up your version of events. Without it, the process can get messy fast. While it’s okay to skip the police report for very minor incidents, there are times when you absolutely shouldn’t. Always get a police report if: anyone appears hurt, you suspect the other driver is under the influence, or if you’re unsure how bad the damage or injuries really are.

Keep in mind that certain injuries might not manifest right away. You might feel fine immediately after the crash, only to start noticing pain a few days later. Without a  report, it becomes harder to connect those injuries to the accident, since there’s no official record showing when and how the crash occurred.

Having a report on file can make a huge difference if you need to pursue a claim later. It serves as evidence that the accident happened and that you reported it promptly. Insurance companies often use any delay or missing documentation to minimize claims, so having a report helps protect your credibility.

Need a Personal Injury Attorney in North Hollywood or Burbank?

If you were in an accident and didn’t file a report, don’t panic. Gather as much evidence as you can and reach out to a qualified attorney for proper guidance. Having an advocate on your side can make all the difference in getting the compensation you’re entitled to.

If you’re unsure whether you can—or should—file an insurance claim without a police report, contact our office to speak with a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood or request to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Burbank. Our North Hollywood personal injury lawyers can help gather evidence, communicate with insurance adjusters, and make sure you don’t say anything that could hurt your case.

As an established personal injury law firm in North Hollywood, Yepremyan Law has served clients throughout Southern California since 1998. With 24/7 support, we provide free consultations to ensure injured victims receive the guidance they need. Call us today and let us know how we can help.

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