Diaz on warpath over photographer's alleged assault

Diaz was with her singer boyfriend Justin Timberlake when the alleged assault took place. Picture / Reuters

Cameron Diaz has filed a complaint with police accusing a photographer of assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly driving his car at her.

Diaz and her boyfriend, singer Justin Timberlake, were leaving a friend's home in Hollywood when a photographer jumped out from behind some bushes.

Diaz said they chased him a short distance, then he got into his car and tried to run them down.

A law that took effect this year stipulates that photographers who engage in criminal behaviour to get a picture are liable for three times any damages caused, plus loss of any picture profits.