Table of Contents
Estimated reading time: 18 minutes
The California DMV car accident form (SR‑1) must be filed within 10 days after a crash that causes injury, death, or $1,000 or more in total property damage. This guide shows exactly when to file, how to fill out the SR‑1 step‑by‑step, how to submit it, what evidence to attach, and what happens if you miss the deadline. The 10‑day car accident DMV deadline CA matters because late or missing reports can trigger a license suspension and administrative penalties under California’s financial responsibility rules, as outlined in the DMV’s Driver Handbook and the DMV’s accident reporting (SR‑1) page, with additional context from legal summaries like RTM Law Firm and Impact Attorneys.
Quick links: Do I need to report? | How to fill SR‑1 | Submit SR‑1 | FAQ
Key Takeaways
- You must file the SR‑1 within 10 days if there was any injury, death, or $1,000+ total property damage, regardless of fault.
- A police report does not automatically satisfy your SR‑1 duty; confirm who is filing and file yourself if in doubt.
- Include accurate driver, vehicle, insurance, injury, and damage details; sign and date—unsigned forms are invalid.
- Attach supporting documents (police report, medical bills, repair estimates, photos, witness info) and keep copies.
- Late filing can mean license suspension and penalties; if you missed the deadline, file immediately and keep proof.
Quick decision flow: Do I need to report?
Use this quick checklist to decide whether you must report your crash to the DMV using the California DMV car accident form.
- You MUST file the SR‑1 if ANY of the following apply:
- Anyone was injured or killed (no matter how minor). Sources: RTM Law Firm; Impact Attorneys; Dolan Law Firm.
- Total property damage (all vehicles + property) is $1,000 or more. Same sources: RTM; Impact; Dolan Law.
- Exceptions and clarifications:
- A police report does NOT automatically remove your obligation to file—do not assume. Sources: JustinForJustice; Ticket Crushers; DMV Driver Handbook.
- An attorney, insurance agent, or a designated representative may file on your behalf. Source: Ticket Crushers.
If you are unsure, file the SR‑1 or contact the DMV—it’s safer to report. Start at the DMV’s accident reporting page.
Immediate on‑scene to‑dos
Before you think about paperwork, protect people and preserve evidence. These steps will also make it easier to report car crash to DMV California later.
- Safety and medical: Call 911 if anyone is injured or in danger. Seek medical attention even for minor symptoms—injuries can appear later, as many post‑crash guides like the Dolan Law Firm’s safety post explain.
- Exchange information: Swap full names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plates, insurance companies and policy numbers, and vehicle descriptions. Photograph the other driver’s insurance card for accuracy.
- Document the scene: Take wide and close photos of vehicle positions, damage, plates, skid marks, traffic signals, signs, and debris. Timestamp photos and back them up to the cloud. For more evidence tips, see how to gather evidence after a crash and why dashcam footage can help.
- Witnesses: Collect names, phone numbers, and one‑line notes on what each witness saw. If safe, record a short voice memo.
- Police information: Write down the responding officer’s name, badge number, agency, and police report number if available. Police reports do NOT automatically satisfy your SR‑1 obligation—keep the report but still complete the SR‑1 unless someone files for you. Source: Ticket Crushers. Learn more about using a California police report in your claim.
- Evidence preservation: Save repair estimates, towing receipts, medical intake forms, and any messages related to the crash. An organized file helps with both insurance and the California DMV car accident form.
- Crash folder: Keep a single (physical or digital) crash folder with date‑stamped filenames, e.g., 2025‑11‑25_SR1_Photos_JaneSmith.jpg. See our broader guide to injury documentation after auto accidents.
Timing and consequences
Car accident DMV deadline CA: file the SR‑1 within 10 days of the crash. The DMV explains this duty in its Driver Handbook and on its accident reporting page, and legal summaries also confirm the 10‑day rule (RTM Law Firm; Impact Attorneys).
Missing the deadline can lead to suspension of driving privileges, administrative penalties, and possible fines—often discussed as a “failure to report accident DMV fine.” See practical guidance on consequences in RTM’s overview, Impact Attorneys’ guide, and JustinForJustice. If you missed the deadline, file immediately, include a short explanation, keep proof of mailing or submission, and ask the DMV about reinstatement procedures if you receive a suspension notice. For broader reporting duties, see our guide on whether you must report an accident in California.
The SR‑1 form: what it is and where to get it
The SR‑1 (Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California) is the official DMV form required after crashes involving injury, death, or $1,000+ total property damage. This duty exists regardless of fault and applies even if you are the owner rather than the driver. Authoritative explanations appear in the DMV Driver Handbook, the DMV’s accident reporting page, and legal summaries (RTM; Impact).
Where to obtain it: You can download a fillable PDF directly from the DMV’s SR‑1 page. You may also pick up copies at DMV offices or California Highway Patrol locations; language options can include Spanish. When SR‑1 filing personal injury is required, report any injury—even minor pain—because any injury triggers the 10‑day rule (Ticket Crushers; RTM).
How to fill out California accident report — section‑by‑section walkthrough
Complete every applicable field, print legibly or type, and SIGN & DATE the form. Many denials happen because forms are incomplete or unsigned. See detailed tips in JustinForJustice and overview reminders in RTM’s SR‑1 guide.
Header/date/location
Enter the exact incident date and time, city and county, and street names with the nearest cross‑street. If possible, use 24‑hour time and be consistent. Example: “11/25/2025, 18:20, Long Beach (Los Angeles County), 1st Ave near Pine Ave.”
Driver information
Enter your full legal name, complete mailing address, date of birth, California driver’s license number (include any letter prefix), phone, and email (if available). If you are the registered owner but not the driver, indicate this in the “owner” field. Avoid mismatched names or addresses that don’t match insurance cards. Source: JustinForJustice.
Vehicle information
Enter make, model, year, license plate number, state of plate, VIN (if available), and the vehicle’s registered owner (if different from driver). If you don’t have the VIN at the scene, add it later from your registration, insurer portal, or repair shop documents.
Insurance information
List your insurance provider, policy number, policyholder name, and claims phone number. If unknown at the moment, write “unknown” and promptly follow up to update the SR‑1 if needed. Accuracy here matters for the DMV’s financial responsibility review (see DMV Handbook).
Other drivers/vehicles
Provide the same driver, vehicle, and insurance details for each involved vehicle. If a driver fled (hit‑and‑run), note any plate numbers, vehicle description, direction of travel, and any witness info. Review hit‑and‑run notes in Ticket Crushers and keep your police incident number. If you lack all details, you can mark items “unknown” and update later.
Occupants / passengers
List all occupants for each vehicle with names and indicate whether they were injured. Even minor complaints (e.g., neck stiffness, knee bruise) should be recorded. This supports SR‑1 filing personal injury requirements and helps your insurance claim. If you were a passenger, see our focused guide on passenger injury claims in California.
Property damage
Describe damaged property (vehicle parts, fences, mailboxes, lamp posts). Provide your best estimate of combined damage costs. Underestimating may create reporting issues; if you’re unsure, use a conservative best estimate, then update when you receive a repair estimate. Sources: RTM; JustinForJustice. For next steps on repairs and insurance, see our property damage claim guide.
Injuries / fatalities
List every injured person by name and briefly describe injuries (e.g., “whiplash, neck pain, seen at ER”). For a fatality, include the person’s name and the time, if known. Remember: ANY injury triggers the 10‑day SR‑1 rule. Sources: RTM; Impact Attorneys.
Narrative / diagram
Write a short, neutral, chronological narrative: list directions of travel, lane use, approximate speeds (if known), the state of traffic signals (green/red/stop/yield), weather and light conditions, and show a simple diagram with arrows and impact points. Keep it concise (3–6 sentences) and accurate. See example structures in JustinForJustice’s how‑to.
Witness information
Enter full names, phone numbers, and one‑line notes on what each witness observed. Cross‑reference this section with your attachment list if you have signed witness statements.
Signatures
The driver must sign and date. If a representative (attorney/insurer) completes the form, indicate that role and include contact info. Unsigned forms are invalid and are a common reason for problems at the DMV.
Common pitfalls
- Missing or illegible signatures.
- Incomplete addresses or wrong driver’s license numbers.
- Underestimating property damage—update with a repair estimate quickly.
- Leaving witness info blank.
- Assuming the police or insurer filed for you.
- Not attaching supporting documents. Source: JustinForJustice.
Text‑based sample filled SR‑1 (plain text)
Use this sample to visualize a complete form. Adjust to your facts.
Driver: Jane Smith, 123 Main St, 1/1/1983, CA D1234567
Vehicle: 2017 Honda Civic, CA 7XYZ123, VIN 1HGCM82633A123456
Insurance: XYZ Insurance, Policy #1234567890, 800-555-0123
Other Driver: John Doe, Ford F-150, CA 8ABC456
Damages: Front bumper, est. $1,500
Injuries: Whiplash (Jane), minor knee bruise (John)
Narrative: Eastbound on 1st Ave, stopped at red light, struck from behind.
Witness: Sarah Lee, 555-2345
Signature: Jane Smith, 11/25/2025
For a deeper dive on form fields and examples, consult the DMV’s SR‑1 page and step‑by‑step articles from RTM, Impact, and JustinForJustice.
Supporting documents & evidence to attach
Attach clear copies to help the DMV verify your SR‑1 and to support your insurance claim. Keep originals in your own records.
- Police report (if available). Include the report number in your SR‑1 and attach a copy.
- Medical records, bills, and doctor’s notes documenting any injuries and treatment.
- Repair estimates, photos of vehicle/property damage, tow receipts, and repair invoices.
- Witness statements (signed if possible) and contact information.
- Any correspondence with other drivers or insurers (emails/texts/photos). For broader evidence tips, see our car crash claims process guide.
Labeling and organization:
- Use a cover sheet: “Jane Smith — SR‑1 — 11/25/2025 — Attachment 1: Police Report.”
- Number attachments sequentially and reference them in the narrative (“See Attachment 1: Police Report”).
- If emailing or uploading, use filenames like: 2025‑11‑25_SR1_PoliceReport_JaneSmith.pdf.
- Store hard copies and scanned backups (cloud and external drive).
How to submit the SR‑1
Submission options can change, so verify current methods on the DMV’s accident reporting page. Practical steps:
Download & mail
- Download the SR‑1 from the DMV’s virtual office page.
- Print, sign, assemble attachments, and mail to the address printed on the form or as listed on the DMV page (do not rely on third‑party addresses).
- Use certified mail with return receipt or a tracked courier. Keep a full copy of the packet and mailing proof.
In‑person submission
- Some DMV offices accept SR‑1 forms at the counter. Bring a photo ID and copies of all attachments.
Fax or electronic upload
- Policies may change. Check the DMV virtual office to see if fax or online upload is currently accepted: DMV SR‑1 page.
If a representative files for you
- Provide a signed statement authorizing your attorney, insurer, or designated representative to submit on your behalf (see Ticket Crushers on representative filing).
Practical tips
- Keep the original signed SR‑1 for your records unless the DMV requires the original.
- Ask the DMV whether a postmark counts as the filing date; confirm by phone or at a field office.
- If filing after the 10‑day window, include a brief cover letter explaining the delay and any proof of earlier attempts to file.
- While the SR‑1 satisfies DMV reporting, you still need to handle insurance reporting separately. See our insurance claim filing guide.
After you file — insurance, medical, and license follow‑up
- Notify your insurer promptly and send them a copy of the SR‑1 and attachments. The SR‑1 does not replace insurer reporting obligations.
- Keep ongoing medical records and bills organized. Document treatment dates, providers, prescriptions, and therapy—this supports both DMV and claim reviews.
- Watch your mail. The DMV may request clarifications or additional documents; respond quickly to avoid administrative penalties (see RTM and Impact on follow‑ups).
- If police filed a report, verify whether the DMV received what they need and whether you still must file—never assume you’re exempt (JustinForJustice; Ticket Crushers; DMV Handbook).
- If you receive a notice of suspension or penalty, contact the DMV right away. You may also consider legal counsel on administrative relief. For timing issues beyond the SR‑1, see the California statute of limitations guide.
Common scenarios & special cases
Hit‑and‑run
If you are the victim and injuries or $1,000+ damage occurred, you must still file the SR‑1. List as much detail as possible: vehicle description, any plate fragments, direction of travel, time, and witnesses. File a police report and attach it. Source: Ticket Crushers. Sample SR‑1 clause: “Unknown driver in black SUV traveling westbound fled scene; witness states plate contained ‘8FK’; see Attachment 1 (police report).”
Uninsured driver
Each driver must file the SR‑1 if thresholds are met. If you lacked insurance at the time, note that in the insurance section. Be aware of the DMV’s financial responsibility consequences (see DMV Handbook). Consider your UM/UIM options with your own insurer and document all communications. For uninsured‑related guidance, see our uninsured driver claim tips.
Rideshare / commercial vehicle
The driver remains responsible for SR‑1 filing even if the employer or ride‑hail company assists. Retain any company incident reports, dashcam or telematics data, and shift logs, and include them as attachments. For rideshare claim nuances, visit our rideshare passenger rights guide.
Multi‑vehicle pileups
List all known vehicles and drivers. If information is missing, write “unknown” and update the form when you obtain it. Attach a diagram and a list of vehicles with their lanes and impact points. In complex multi‑car crashes, evidence like red‑light camera or dashcam footage can help; see how to use traffic light video in claims.
Minor property damage under $1,000
If no one was injured and the total property damage for all involved is under $1,000, you are not required to file the SR‑1. Still, document the incident thoroughly for your insurer, including photos, estimates, and witness info (see our auto accident legal help resource).
Checklist & printable materials
One‑page crash‑to‑filing checklist content (for a future printable PDF):
- Ensure scene safety & check for injuries.
- Call 911 (if needed).
- Exchange info & take photos.
- Collect witness & police details.
- Get repair & medical estimates.
- Download and fill SR‑1 form.
- File with DMV within 10 days (car accident DMV deadline CA).
- Notify insurance, keep records.
Suggested file names for future assets (no downloads included here): “SR1_Fillable_Sample_JaneSmith.pdf” and “SR1_Checklist_CrashToFiling.pdf”.
Sample SR‑1 & annotated screenshot guidance for designers
Provide an annotated SR‑1 sample that calls out each field (driver info, vehicle details, insurance, injury/damage, narrative, signature). Pair it with short tooltips (“Enter exact date/time,” “List all occupants with injury status,” “Sign & date”). Suggested alt text for accessibility: “Annotated SR‑1 sample showing where to list injuries, property damage, and where to sign.” This helps readers understand how to fill out California accident report fields at a glance.
Legal & practical disclaimers
This guide is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Rules and penalties change—always verify requirements on the California DMV website or consult a licensed attorney. See the DMV’s Driver Handbook section on financial responsibility and collisions. If you’re facing a potential suspension or “failure to report accident DMV fine,” consider seeking legal guidance.
Conclusion
Filing the California DMV car accident form within 10 days protects your license and keeps your claim on track. If anyone was injured or if property damage reaches $1,000+, complete the SR‑1 promptly, attach clear evidence, and keep copies. If you are unsure whether to file, it’s safer to submit the SR‑1 or verify with the DMV. Should you realize you missed the deadline, send your packet immediately with an explanation and proof of mailing. Organized documents and timely responses make a difference with both the DMV and your insurer.
Need help now? Get a free and instant case evaluation by Visionary Law Group. See if your case qualifies within 30-seconds at https://eval.visionarylawgroup.com/auto-accident.
FAQ
Do I need to file if there were no injuries?
Only if total property damage (all vehicles and property) is $1,000 or more. See plain‑language summaries by RTM Law Firm and Impact Attorneys, and practical post‑crash considerations from the Dolan Law Firm.
What if the police filed a report?
You may still need to file the SR‑1 unless another party or insurer files for you—do not assume the police report satisfies your duty. Confirm with the DMV. References: JustinForJustice; Ticket Crushers; DMV Handbook. You can also review how to proceed if there’s no police report for your accident.
How long do I have to file?
10 days from the date of the crash. See the DMV’s SR‑1 page, and reminders from RTM and Impact Attorneys. For litigation deadlines beyond DMV reporting, see California’s statute of limitations overview.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
You could face license suspension and administrative penalties, often discussed as a “failure to report accident DMV fine.” File immediately, keep proof, and contact the DMV or counsel about reinstatement steps. See RTM and Impact Attorneys for practical tips.
Can I submit the SR‑1 online?
Check the DMV Virtual Office for current upload or fax options: DMV accident reporting page. Most filings are by mail or in person, but policies can change. For step‑by‑step submission tips, review the “How to submit the SR‑1” section above.
