Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Car accident law in Shizuoka falls under the same national legal framework that applies across Japan, but local agencies and procedures matter when you are involved in a crash within the prefecture. Legal issues that commonly arise after traffic accidents include criminal liability for dangerous or negligent driving, administrative actions against a driver s license, civil claims for compensation, and insurance claims under both compulsory and voluntary policies. The local police will handle initial accident reports and issue an official accident certificate used for insurance and legal processes. If injuries are involved, prosecutors may pursue criminal charges. Civil claims for compensation are governed by general tort principles in the Civil Code and by established judicial practice on damages for medical costs, lost income, and non-pecuniary loss.
This guide explains why you might need legal help, summarizes the key legal points that matter in Shizuoka, answers frequently asked questions, points to useful local organizations, and explains practical next steps if you need legal assistance.
Not every accident requires a lawyer, but legal advice or representation is important in several common situations. You should consider talking to a lawyer if there are disputes about who caused the accident, if one party suffered serious injury or death, if the other driver is uninsured or a hit-and-run suspect, or if the police or prosecutors indicate possible criminal charges. A lawyer can protect your interests during police questioning, help negotiate fair compensation with insurers, and represent you in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary.
Other reasons to hire a lawyer include complex medical or long-term care claims, contested liability where multiple parties share fault, cases involving commercial vehicles or employers, and administrative procedures such as license suspension or revocation handled by the Driver s License Center. A lawyer with experience in traffic accidents can evaluate the strength of your claim, gather evidence, calculate realistic damages, and advise on settlement versus litigation.
Key legal aspects to understand when you have a car accident in Shizuoka include reporting obligations, insurance requirements, criminal exposure, civil damages, administrative sanctions, and time limits for claims.
Reporting - If an accident causes injury or significant property damage, you must notify the police. The Shizuoka Prefectural Police will respond to the scene or instruct you how to file a formal report. The police issue an official accident certificate (事故証明書) used for insurance and legal matters.
Insurance - Japan requires compulsory automobile liability insurance (often called CALI) that covers bodily injury to third parties up to set minimum limits. Voluntary insurance policies provide broader coverage for property damage, higher injury compensation, and uninsured-driver protection. Notify your insurer promptly according to your policy conditions.
Criminal liability - Actions that result in serious injury or death, driving under the influence, reckless driving, or fleeing the scene can lead to criminal investigation and prosecution. Criminal cases can proceed independently of civil claims for damages.
Civil claims and damages - Victims can pursue compensation through insurers or by suing for tort damages. Typical recoverable losses include medical expenses, future medical and care costs, lost earnings, transportation and rehabilitation expenses, and compensation for pain and suffering. Courts and insurers use established standards and precedents to evaluate non-pecuniary damages.
Administrative sanctions - The Driver s License Center may impose administrative penalties such as points, suspension, or revocation of driving privileges after serious accidents, even if criminal charges are not filed.
Statute of limitations - For tort claims arising from accidents, the general rule is three years from the date you became aware of the damage and the person responsible, and a maximum of 20 years from the date of the accident. Criminal proceedings and administrative deadlines have their own time frames.
First, check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Call the police so the accident is formally recorded - an official report is important for insurance and legal steps. Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, driver s license details, and insurance information with other drivers. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get witness names and contact details. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor, and keep all medical records and receipts.
Yes. If anyone was injured or there is significant property damage, you must report the accident to the police. The police will prepare an accident certificate used by insurers and courts. Failing to report a qualifying accident or leaving the scene can cause criminal liability for hit-and-run offenses and complicate insurance claims.
Contact your insurer as soon as possible and provide the police report, photos, witness information, medical documentation, and receipts for expenses. If the other party is at fault, their insurer may handle compensation. If fault is disputed, insurers often negotiate based on the police report and supporting evidence. Keep copies of every communication and document you submit.
Compulsory automobile liability insurance provides a baseline of coverage for bodily injury to third parties, but its limits are modest. It is intended to ensure victims receive some compensation for medical costs and serious injury. Voluntary insurance usually covers additional damages, property damage, and may include protection for uninsured or hit-and-run scenarios. Review both your policy and the other driver s policy to know what is covered.
If the other driver fled, report the hit-and-run to the police immediately and provide any available evidence such as photos or witness statements. Your own voluntary insurance may cover damages under collision or uninsured motorist provisions. Compulsory insurance provides some coverage for bodily injury, but recovery beyond that may be difficult if the other driver cannot be identified. A lawyer can help you pursue claims against available sources and advise on civil remedies.
The civil statute of limitations for tort claims is generally three years from the date you knew the damage and the responsible party, and up to 20 years from the date of the accident in absolute terms. Criminal and administrative timetables are different. Because time limits can be strict, consult a lawyer early to avoid losing your right to sue.
Yes. Non-pecuniary damages for pain and suffering are part of typical damage calculations in Japan. Courts and insurers consider the severity and duration of injuries, recovery prospects, and the impact on daily life. Supporting medical records and clear documentation about daily limitations strengthen such claims.
Yes. Some injuries, such as whiplash, internal injuries, or concussions, may not present symptoms immediately. A prompt medical examination creates a medical record linking the injury to the accident, which is essential for insurance claims and potential lawsuits. Follow-up visits, treatment plans, and receipts help document the course of injury and recovery.
Criminal charges may arise if the facts show serious negligence, driving under the influence, dangerous driving, or fleeing the scene. The police and public prosecutor decide whether to charge based on the evidence and severity of harm. Criminal proceedings run separately from civil claims, and a criminal conviction can affect civil claims and administrative sanctions.
Look for a lawyer who has experience with car accidents, traffic law, and personal injury claims. Ask about their track record, whether they negotiate with insurers frequently, and whether they handle trials. Fees vary - some lawyers charge hourly rates, others use fixed fees for specific services, and contingency-fee arrangements are sometimes available for injury claims. Ask for a written fee agreement, including who pays for court costs and expert reports. If cost is a concern, ask about initial consultations, legal aid options, or referrals through the local bar association.
Shizuoka Prefectural Police - local police handle accident reports and investigations. Contact the nearest police station after an accident.
Shizuoka Driver s License Center - handles administrative matters related to driving records, points, suspensions, and revocations.
Shizuoka Bar Association - can provide lawyer referral services and guidance on finding an attorney experienced in traffic accidents.
Japan Legal Support Center - Houterasu - offers information about legal consultation and may help with finding affordable legal assistance.
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism - provides background on vehicle and road regulations that can affect accident cases.
Japan Automobile Federation - JAF - provides roadside assistance, accident advice, and can help with practical steps at the scene.
General Insurance Association of Japan and your private insurer - for details on voluntary insurance coverage and dispute procedures.
If you are involved in a car accident in Shizuoka, follow this practical sequence of steps:
1. Ensure safety and call emergency services if anyone is injured.
2. Notify the police and obtain an official accident report or accident certificate.
3. Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers and get witness contacts.
4. Document the scene with photos and notes about weather, road conditions, and vehicle positions.
5. Seek medical attention promptly and keep all medical records, prescriptions, and receipts.
6. Notify your insurance company, provide the police report, and submit evidence promptly according to policy deadlines.
7. Preserve evidence - keep repair estimates, photos, medical documents, wage statements, and communications with insurers or other parties.
8. If fault, compensation, or criminal or administrative exposure is contested, consult a lawyer experienced in traffic accidents. Ask about fees, case strategy, and likely timelines.
9. If you do not speak Japanese fluently, arrange for interpretation or request a lawyer who can work in your language to help with police, medical, insurance, and court procedures.
10. Act promptly - gather documents and seek advice early to protect your rights and meet statutory deadlines.
If you are unsure where to start, contact the Shizuoka Bar Association for a referral or the Japan Legal Support Center for initial guidance. A qualified lawyer can help you evaluate your case, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.
