In California, car accidents stay on your official DMV driving record for three years from the date of the collision. Incidents involving commercial vehicles or criminal charges like driving under the influence can stay on your record for up to ten years. It’s important to be aware of the repercussions after an accident, as a poor driving record can lead to your license being revoked, increased insurance premiums, and challenges when filing a car accident claim.
How Does the DMV Record Car Accidents?
The California DMV tracks all collisions in the state to monitor traffic safety. Under California Vehicle Code Section 16000, drivers must report any accident that results in an injury or property damage over $1,000. You are required to submit an SR-1 report within ten days of the accident if the damage or injury threshold is met. The reporting requirement applies to all parties involved, regardless of who caused the collision.
Many drivers incorrectly assume that their record is unaffected if they weren’t at fault for the crash. However, all standard crashes are recorded for exactly three years. When the time elapses, the collision record is removed automatically. The timeline is calculated from the crash date rather than the date the report was processed. If you fail to submit a report, your license may be suspended indefinitely.
Can Accidents Stay on Your Record for More Than Three Years?
Some collisions stay on your record for a longer period, because the DMV requires longer tracking periods for serious traffic violations and criminal offenses. For example, DUI convictions or hit-and-run convictions stay on your public DMV record for ten years. If you were driving a commercial vehicle or transporting hazardous materials at the time of the crash, it will also remain on record for 10 years.
There are long-term consequences for professional and civilian drivers when an accident remains on their records for a decade. Insurance companies view people with such records as high-risk drivers, so their monthly premiums are significantly higher. Employers will also view commercial drivers with a ten-year record as a liability during background checks. Keeping your record clean is important for your career and for retaining insurance coverage.
What’s the Difference Between DMV Records and Insurance Files?
While the DMV expunges standard crash records after three years, insurance companies track your driving record for much longer. Insurance providers have independent databases that they use to evaluate policyholders that don’t rely on state records. The most commonly used database is the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, also known as the CLUE report. CLUE tracks auto insurance claims for up to seven years.
Insurers review CLUE reports when deciding whether to renew your policy or increase your monthly fee. Because insurers use CLUE, your insurance premiums may stay higher even after your DMV record is wiped. Insurers use the extended history to apply surcharges to your premium or remove safe-driver discounts. Applying for a new policy may help, but most major insurance providers check the same databases.
Can I Remove an Accident From My Driving Record Early?
Getting an accident removed from your record is difficult, but it is possible if there was an error. Inaccurate reports are sometimes filed if police officers or DMV clerks input the wrong license information. If you find an incorrect accident on your record, you can file a traffic accident record correction request using a DL 208 form. You must provide proof that the record is wrong, such as the official police report or insurance files.
The DMV will then review your evidence and amend your record if they determine that your proof is valid. If you were involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may also request a review to make sure that your record shows that you were not liable. Your attorney can guide you through the process, saving you hours of bureaucratic frustration. Keeping your record clear can prevent unfair insurance premium increases and protect your legal credibility.
Concerned about how a car accident may affect your future? Get Your Answer from an Attorney.
Request a Free ConsultationCan Insurance Companies Use My Driving Record Against Me?
Whenever you file a claim after a crash, insurance adjusters search for any past collisions that they can use to portray you as an unsafe, reckless driver. If they can convince a jury that you share fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced under California’s comparative negligence law. Insurance companies routinely use prior accidents to avoid giving injured crash victims fair compensation.
While insurance companies will try a variety of tactics to reduce your compensation, an experienced personal injury attorney can defend you against unfair treatment. Attorneys can investigate the details of your crash and gather evidence that protects you from undeserved blame. Using medical records, witness statements, and accident reconstructions, your attorney will build a strong, compelling case that proves your innocence.
At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we fight for our clients even when confronted by baseless insurance arguments. Our team provides personalized attention to each client and maintains open communication throughout the legal process. If the insurance provider refuses to offer fair compensation, we will not hesitate to take your case to trial. If you have a poor driving record and you need to file an accident claim, contact HHJ Trial Attorneys.
