Many people wonder whether they need a police report to pursue an injury claim in California. While a report can be valuable, the answer is more nuanced. This is general information, not legal advice.
When reports are required
California law requires reporting certain collisions — for example, those involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Even when not strictly required, a report creates an official record that can help document what happened.
If there is no report
You can often still pursue a claim without a police report by relying on other evidence: photographs, medical records, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene. The key is preserving as much information as possible while it is still available.
Have a question about your situation?
Our California personal injury attorneys offer free, confidential consultations.
Keep Reading
Related Articles
Understanding California's Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims
California law may limit how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Here is what injured Californians should know.
How Long Does a California Personal Injury Case Take?
Every case is different, but here are the factors that influence the timeline of a California injury claim.