A car accident can ruin your day, to say the least. After the crash, all you want is to get home to your safe sanctuary and be with the ones you love.
However, what you do after an accident can have far-reaching legal and personal consequences. One of the steps you need to take if you are involved in a car accident is calling the police to the scene. But why is this important?
You are required by law to report the accident
If you are involved in a car accident, there are certain actions you must take before leaving the scene. If the accident resulted in an injury, death or property damage worth $1,000 or more, then California car accident laws require that you call the police to the scene right away. Of course, the other party might try to persuade you otherwise, especially if they were in the wrong. However, this can be a costly mistake, especially if they change their mind down the road.
It benefits your personal injury claim
Reporting the accident can also help your personal injury case. Speaking with the police gives you an opportunity to provide your side of the story so it can be reflected in the police report. And if there were witnesses to the accident, this is also an opportunity to convince them to give their statement to the police.
Calling the police, giving your statement and obtaining a copy of the accident report is one of the most crucial steps when pursuing justice following an accident that is not your fault.