How Do I Report a Car Accident in Utah?

Utah law requires you to report a car accident to law enforcement if the crash results in injury, death, or property damage over $2,500. Here is what you are required to do and how to do it correctly.

Immediate Steps at the Scene

• Call 911: Report the crash immediately if anyone is injured or if vehicles are blocking traffic. Request an ambulance if needed.
• Stay at the scene: Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury is a felony in Utah (Utah Code Section 41-6a-401).
• Exchange information: Name, driver's license number, vehicle registration, and insurance information from every driver involved.
• Document the scene: Photograph all vehicles, the positions of vehicles before they are moved, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.

Filing the Official Report

When law enforcement responds, the officer completes a Utah Traffic Crash Report (Form SR-1). Request the report number at the scene. You can obtain a copy from the Utah Department of Public Safety or the responding agency (SLCPD, Utah Highway Patrol, Murray City Police, etc.) within 7 to 10 days.

If law enforcement does not respond (minor crashes with no injuries and damage under $2,500), you may still file a self-report with the Utah DMV.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Most auto policies require you to notify your insurer promptly after a crash, even if you were not at fault. Failure to notify within the required window can complicate your own PIP and UM/UIM claims.

What Not to Do

• Do not admit fault at the scene, even casually ("I'm sorry")
• Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer without consulting an attorney
• Do not post about the crash on social media

Call BAM Injury Law at (801) 839-5652 if you have questions about your rights after a Utah car accident.