California law sets clear reporting obligations after a collision. Knowing them keeps you compliant and avoids a license suspension. There are two separate reporting duties: one to law enforcement and one to the DMV.
Report to law enforcement
You must report to the CHP or local police within 24 hours when someone is injured or killed, or when property damage exceeds $1,000. The $1,000 applies to total damage across all property in the accident.
Report to the DMV
File an SR-1 with the DMV within 10 days under the same conditions: injury, death, or damage exceeding $1,000. This is separate from the police report — both may be required.
What counts as "reportable"
The thresholds are legal minimums. Even a minor collision can benefit from a police report and good documentation, especially for insurance purposes. See what to do after an accident for the full sequence.
