A car accident can be a scary experience. If you’ve never been in a wreck, you’re likely unsure what steps are required of you when it comes to reporting the crash to police, medical professionals, and insurance companies. Collisions can range from minor fender benders to disastrous pileups. No matter how severe the incident may be, knowing how to report the wreck can be helpful.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, reporting the accident may only be the beginning of your concerns. Having the details of your wreck documented with the police is essential because, when you file a claim for compensation in the future, these records can serve as tangible evidence. At Kohan & Bablove, Injury Attorneys, our car accident lawyers can help you hold the liable parties to account.
When Medical Treatment Is Required
It’s important to understand that, whenever injuries have occurred in a car crash—regardless of whether the injuries have been inflicted on you or another driver or passenger—911 should be called immediately. When you call emergency services, medical help will be sent to the scene of the accident and the local police department will also be contacted.
Local Police Departments in Orange County
Orange County consists of numerous cities such as Santa Ana, Anaheim, Costa Mesa, and Huntington Beach, to name a few. When a collision happens within the county that isn’t an emergency, the accident should be reported to the city’s local police department. Each city has its own police department headquarters where you can file in person. Many have online portals for filing, as well.
For example, if you get in a wreck in Santa Ana, you can use their online e-police reporting tool to report your car accident. When the crash occurs on a state freeway, however—even if it’s within city limits—it needs to be reported to the California Highway Patrol.
The California Highway Patrol in Santa Ana
There are California Highway Patrol locations throughout the state, and the Orange County location is in central Santa Ana. You can report your accident in person at the Santa Ana office, but it’s also easy to report a collision by calling 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247). The hotline is always active.
When a Police Report Is Required
Police reports are required to be filed within twenty-four hours of when the wreck occurred if any injuries resulted from the crash. When there are no injuries, both drivers can choose whether to file a report. However, it’s in your best interests to get the accident documented by police.
When the police have records of your accident, you can use these reports later when you go to court to seek compensation.
Reach Out to a California Car Accident Lawyer
Knowing when and how to file a car accident report can ease your worry when a collision occurs. It’s also helpful to understand the importance of filing, even if no injuries have occurred. When the time comes, a car accident attorney from Kohan & Bablove, Injury Attorneys can assist you with gathering the proper evidence to prove negligence and maximize your settlement.
To speak with a lawyer about your claim, schedule a free consultation by calling 949.535.1341 or by filling out the contact form below.
