As of January 13, 2021, the Los Angeles police department implemented a new policy limiting when officers respond to traffic accidents. Police will now only respond to accidents involving:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- DUI or other crimes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Substantial visible injuries, such as broken bones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ambulance transport from the scene.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If an accident does not meet these criteria, it is categorized as \u201cminor,\u201d and officers may not be dispatched.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Victims of accidents deemed \u201cminor\u201d are now directed to file a full collision report themselves through the Lexis Nexis online collision report system. However, even in cases involving ambulance transport or serious injuries, officers have failed to arrive or file an official collision report themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But, why has the policy changed? This policy is a result of budget cuts following calls to defund the police, which have reduced officer availability for non-emergency situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Example Scenario: A Cyclist\u2019s Struggle After a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Steve, a cyclist in Los Angeles, is struck by a car that turned right in front of him. The driver stops, and someone calls the police. Although Steve can stand and move out of traffic, he complains of severe shoulder pain, multiple abrasions, and a cracked helmet. When the LAPD arrives, they ask if he wants an ambulance. Concerned about the high cost of medical treatment, Steve declines and calls his wife to take him to the emergency room instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a state of trauma and confusion, Steve assumes the police have documented everything, including witness statements, photos, and the car driver\u2019s full details. However, at the ER and in the days following, he discovers his injuries are far more severe than they initially seemed\u2014multiple broken ribs, a fractured clavicle that requires surgery, and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) causing memory issues. He is unable to work for weeks and faces mounting medical bills. His $9,000 bicycle also has a cracked frame and broken handlebars, requiring full replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When Steve contacts a bicycle accident attorney to seek compensation for his injuries and damages, the attorney asks about the police report and other documentation from the scene. Steve explains that the police were present and assumes they filed a report. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, he learns that no police report was ever filed, leaving no official record of the incident. Critical details like the date, driver\u2019s license number, vehicle license plate, witness contacts, and a detailed account of the car crash are missing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The other driver\u2019s insurance disputes Steve\u2019s accident account and denies fault. Without sufficient evidence, the LA Cycling attorney faces significant challenges in proving negligence, making it difficult to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost of replacing the damaged bicycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This scenario highlights the critical importance of gathering your own evidence at the scene of an accident in Los Angeles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With LAPD\u2019s policy of not filing police reports for perceived non-severe injuries, cyclists must take proactive steps to protect their rights and ensure they have the necessary documentation to pursue compensation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re searching for a bicycle accident lawyer near me, our team at Bike Legal can assist you wherever you are in Los Angeles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read More:<\/strong> 20 Types of Bicycle Accidents & Prevention Tips<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Why Police Reports Matter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"illustration](\"https:\/\/animateandmore.com\/demos\/bikelegal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/illustration-of-lapd-police-report-1920w.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPolice reports are necessary proof for bicycle and car accident cases because they:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Provide an official, neutral record of the incident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Include the officer\u2019s observations, like vehicle damage and road conditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Document witness statements with contact details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Outline the officer\u2019s conclusions about who is at fault.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If no police report is filed, victims face these challenges:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Proving Fault<\/strong>: You\u2019ll need to rely on your evidence to show who was responsible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insurance Problems<\/strong>: Insurance companies may never be identified or may argue against your claim or reduce payouts without a police report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lost Evidence<\/strong>: Important details like witness information, video footage, or vehicle damage may be missed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
4. Steps to Take at the Scene of an Accident in Los Angeles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Man](\"https:\/\/animateandmore.com\/demos\/bikelegal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/man-taking-photos-of-damaged-car-at-the-scene-of-an-accident-1920w.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you are involved in a crash in Los Angeles, do not assume the LAPD will document the incident. Take the following steps to protect yourself and gather critical evidence:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Take Photos<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Use your phone to photograph the accident scene, vehicles, road conditions, signage, damage to bikes or cars, helmet damage, and any visible injuries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Find Witnesses<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Identify and collect the names and contact details of anyone who saw the crash. Witness statements can be crucial in proving fault.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Collect Key Information<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Obtain the driver\u2019s name, contact details, license number, insurance information (including policy number and insurer), and vehicle license plate number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Document Everything Yourself<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Do not rely on others to share information or photos later. Use your own phone to ensure you have all the necessary evidence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Get Medical Attention<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Many injuries, such as concussions, may not be immediately noticeable and can worsen days or even weeks after a crash. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical treatment as soon as possible ensures proper care and creates a crucial paper trail documenting your injuries and recovery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- File a Report Yourself<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 If the LAPD does not file a report, visit a local police station to submit your account of the incident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Save Evidence<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Secure any available video footage, such as dashcam or surveillance footage, before it is lost.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Talk to a Los Angeles bicycle accident law firm<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Contact a\u00a0Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney<\/a>\u00a0as soon as possible. An attorney can help gather additional evidence, deal with insurance companies, and strengthen your claim.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Taking these steps immediately after a crash can make the difference between securing compensation and losing critical evidence needed to prove fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Legal Requirements for Drivers After an Accident in LA<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Under California law, drivers involved in an accident must take specific actions, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Reporting to Authorities<\/strong>:<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Accidents involving\u00a0injury, death,<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0property damage exceeding $1,000<\/strong>\u00a0must be reported within\u00a024 hours<\/strong>\u00a0to the\u00a0California Highway Patrol (CHP)<\/strong>\u00a0or local police.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The report must include details of the accident, such as the parties involved and the extent of damages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Filing an SR-1 Form<\/strong>:<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If the accident meets the criteria above, drivers must also file an\u00a0SR-1 form<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0with the\u00a0Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)<\/strong>\u00a0within\u00a010 days<\/strong>\u00a0of the incident.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Point of Note<\/strong>: Many drivers mistakenly assume that bicycles are worth less than $1,000 and believe reporting isn\u2019t necessary. In reality, most bicycles, especially high-end models like e-bikes, far exceed $1,000 in value, with many costing $5,000 or more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The obligations are outlined in the California Vehicle Code, Division 10, Chapter 1, Section 20008<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DIVISION 10. ACCIDENTS AND ACCIDENT REPORTS [20000 – 20018]<\/strong> ( Division 10 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3.<\/em>) CHAPTER 1. Accidents and Accident Reports [20000 – 20018]<\/strong> ( Heading of Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 281, Sec. 2.<\/em> ) 20008. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
(a) The driver of a vehicle, other than a common carrier vehicle, involved in any accident resulting in injuries to or death of any person shall within 24 hours after the accident make or cause to be made a written report of the accident to the Department of the California Highway Patrol or, if the accident occurred within a city, to either the Department of the California Highway Patrol or the police department of the city in which the accident occurred. If the agency which receives the report is not responsible for investigating the accident, it shall immediately forward the report to the law enforcement agency which is responsible for investigating the accident.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
On or before the fifth day of each month, every police department which received a report during the previous calendar month of an accident which it is responsible for investigating shall forward the report or a copy thereof to the main office of the Department of the California Highway Patrol at Sacramento.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
(b) The owner or driver of a common carrier vehicle involved in any such accident shall make a like report to the Department of California Highway Patrol on or before the 10th day of the month following the accident.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The consequences of failing to report are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Loss of Driving Privileges<\/strong>: The DMV may suspend or revoke your license for non-compliance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Criminal Charges<\/strong>: Not reporting an accident involving injuries or death could result in hit-and-run charges, which carry criminal penalties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insurance Challenges<\/strong>: Without proper reporting, filing or pursuing an insurance claim may be difficult, leaving you financially vulnerable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
6. Challenges That Accident Victims Face in Los Angeles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Accident victims in Los Angeles often face unique difficulties that can make it harder to protect their rights and secure fair compensation. Some of the common issues include the following: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Relying on Police for Documentation<\/strong>: Many victims assume the police will collect all the necessary information, but under LAPD’s policy, this isn\u2019t always the case.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Injuries or Shock<\/strong>: The stress and confusion after an accident, combined with physical injuries, often prevent victims from properly documenting the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Limited Knowledge<\/strong>: Cyclists and pedestrians may not be as familiar with legal and insurance requirements as motorists, leaving them at a disadvantage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, these challenges can be managed with the right approach. Here\u2019s what you can do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Take Initiative<\/strong>: Document the accident yourself by taking photos, gathering contact details, and writing down the events while they\u2019re fresh in your memory.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Know the Policy<\/strong>: Be aware that police may only file a report if injuries seem severe or an ambulance is called. Without an ambulance, there\u2019s often no report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Seek Guidance<\/strong>: Familiarize yourself with your legal and insurance rights to ensure you\u2019re fully protected. Consulting with our team of attorneys can provide additional support and clarity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
7. How the Policy Affects Public Safety<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The LAPD\u2019s decision to reduce the filing of police reports for minor accidents has serious implications for public safety and accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Underreporting of Accidents:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
With fewer accidents officially documented, the Department of Transportation may not have the data to identify hazardous intersections or areas prone to crashes. This lack of information could delay or prevent improvements to infrastructure that make roads safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Impact on Insurance and Legal Outcomes:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Without a police report to provide third-party documentation, resolving disputes over fault becomes more difficult. Insurance companies may be more likely to challenge claims, leaving victims to gather their own evidence to prove what happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This creates additional stress for individuals already dealing with the aftermath of an accident and increases the risk of unfair outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This policy places a heavier burden on individual collision reports while potentially overlooking broader public safety concerns that come from underreporting accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. The Role of Attorneys in Cases Without Police Reports<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Attorney](\"https:\/\/animateandmore.com\/demos\/bikelegal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/attorney-consoling-a-worried-male-client-1920w.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen a police report is unavailable, our team’s expertise becomes indispensable in defending your rights and building a strong case. Without an official record from law enforcement, attorneys can fill the gaps by conducting thorough investigations and ensuring no critical evidence is overlooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Know the Policy<\/strong>: Be aware that police may only file a report if injuries seem severe or an ambulance is called. Without an ambulance, there\u2019s often no report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Injuries or Shock<\/strong>: The stress and confusion after an accident, combined with physical injuries, often prevent victims from properly documenting the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Criminal Charges<\/strong>: Not reporting an accident involving injuries or death could result in hit-and-run charges, which carry criminal penalties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Accidents involving\u00a0injury, death,<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0property damage exceeding $1,000<\/strong>\u00a0must be reported within\u00a024 hours<\/strong>\u00a0to the\u00a0California Highway Patrol (CHP)<\/strong>\u00a0or local police.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Find Witnesses<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Identify and collect the names and contact details of anyone who saw the crash. Witness statements can be crucial in proving fault.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insurance Problems<\/strong>: Insurance companies may never be identified or may argue against your claim or reduce payouts without a police report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Proving Fault<\/strong>: You\u2019ll need to rely on your evidence to show who was responsible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/animateandmore.com\/demos\/bikelegal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/BikeLegalLogoMASTER_2024_900-1920w.jpg\")
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