City of Novato, CA
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Depending on the information provided to a dispatcher, you may be directed to complete an online collision report. Novato Police responds only to injury accidents and hit-and-run collisions where there are injuries or potential suspect information/leads.
If you have been involved in a collision with a potential injury, call 9-1-1 immediately.
*Freeway Incidents: Accidents, road rage, road hazards or other issues occurring on a California freeway can be reported to the Marin County California Highway Patrol Office at (415) 924-1100.
Report a Traffic Collision or Accident
What qualifies as a Traffic Collision?
Per California Vehicle Code Section § 20002 (2022), a traffic collision:
- Is an unintended or unplanned event
- Involves a moving vehicle
- Results in property damage or injury
"Door Dings" from a parked vehicle, do NOT qualify as a Traffic Collision or vandalism and would be handled in a civil manner.
**If the accident includes property damage, take photos and exchange the following information with the other driver:
- name
- address
- insurance information
- driver's license number
- date of birth
- phone number
- owner of the vehicle
- owner's address
- vehicle year
- vehicle make and model
- vehicle license number and state.
Also, note the date, time and location of the accident. Notify your insurance company of the accident.
The California DMV provides a printable pamphlet you can keep in your car to help you know what to do if you’re in a traffic collision.
Upon completion of this report process you will:
- Be able to print a copy of the police report to keep for your records
- Be given a police report case number
- See the words: "your online police report has been submitted" showing that your police report is complete.