Do you have to move your car after a crash in California? Here’s what DMV says
Being involved in a car crash can leave you with a whirlwind of emotions, from shock to confusion.
You may also find yourself dealing with lots of questions: Do I need to move my vehicle out of the road? What if someone was hurt? What information do I need to share with other drivers?
If someone is injured, call 911 right away and report the collision.
Here’s what to do after a car crash in California, according to state law and the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
What should you do after a car crash?
According to the DMV, you need to move your car off the roadway if no one is injured.
If you are unable to drive your vehicle, you need to have it removed from the street or highway.
Otherwise, under Vehicle Code 22651, law enforcement personnel will remove and impound it.
What if someone is injured or died?
If the car crash resulted in serious injuries or death, you should leave your car where it is and wait for law enforcement, according to Shouse Law, a California-based law firm.
You should also leave the vehicle in place if moving it would be dangerous, the firm said.
However, you should move your vehicle if it poses a “significant hazard,” Shouse Law said.
What information do I exchange?
The following information should be shared between you and the other driver or drivers, according to the DMV:
- Driver’s date of birth
- Driver’s license number and state
- Driver’s name and address
- Vehicle license plate number and state
- Driver’s insurance company name
- Insurance policy number and expiration date
- Policy holder’s name and address
- Vehicle owner’s name and address
- Injuries or property damage
What if I don’t have vehicle insurance?
Driving without car insurance in California is illegal, and you need to have a physical or digital copy with you in your car.
Consequences for driving without insurance include fines, an impounded car or suspended license and registration, The Sacramento Bee reported in October.
This story was originally published November 21, 2023 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Do you have to move your car after a crash in California? Here’s what DMV says."