The first steps you take after a crash can protect, or wreck, your injury claim. Here is a simple checklist of what to do, and what to avoid, after an accident in California.
Hurt and not sure what to do? Call (213) 800-0706 for a free consultation. You owe no attorney’s fees unless we win.
✓ Do These 5 Things
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Get Medical Attention Right AwayConcussions, soft-tissue damage, and internal injuries can take hours or days to show. Prompt care protects your health and links your injuries to the crash.
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Document the ScenePhotograph the vehicles, damage, the hazard that caused a fall, skid marks, signals, plates, and your injuries. This evidence often disappears within hours.
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Exchange and Gather InformationGet the other driver’s license and insurance, plus the names and numbers of any witnesses. Independent witnesses can be decisive.
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Report the AccidentCall 911 so there is an official record. In California you must also file DMV form SR-1 within 10 days for any crash with injury, death, or over $1,000 in damage.
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Talk to a Lawyer EarlyA free consultation helps you avoid the mistakes insurers count on, and gets evidence preserved and your deadlines tracked.
✕ Avoid These 5 Things
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Don’t Admit FaultDon’t apologize or accept blame. California uses comparative negligence, and fault is decided by the evidence, not an offhand comment at the scene.
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Don’t Delay Medical TreatmentGaps in treatment are the first thing insurers use to argue you weren’t really hurt. Follow your doctor’s plan and keep your appointments.
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Don’t Post on Social MediaA single photo or comment can be taken out of context to dispute your injuries. Stay offline about the accident until your case is resolved.
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Don’t Give a Statement or Sign AnythingThe other insurer may want a recorded statement or offer a quick check with a release attached. Both can limit your rights. Talk to your own lawyer first.
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Don’t Miss Your DeadlineCalifornia generally gives you two years to file (CCP 335.1), and as little as six months for claims against a government entity. Missing it can bar your case.
California Rules Worth Knowing
- At-fault state. The party who caused the crash is responsible for the harm.
- Comparative negligence. You can still recover even if you were partly at fault; your compensation is reduced by your share.
- Two-year deadline. Most injury claims must be filed within two years, with much shorter deadlines against public entities.
- No fee unless we win. We work on contingency, so you owe no attorney’s fees unless we recover for you.
Hurt in an Accident? Talk to Us, Free.
We handle the insurance companies so you can focus on recovery. The consultation is free and you owe no attorney’s fees unless we win.
Call (213) 800-0706