Setareh Law
January 18, 2025
In California, over 147,000 injury-related traffic accidents were reported in 2020. Being involved in a car accident can be a scary experience, especially with the shock and adrenaline in the moments that follow. However, knowing what actions to take is vital to protect your injury claim and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the proper steps after a crash can make a significant difference in ensuring your claim is handled efficiently. At Setareh Law, we help our clients protect their claims by ensuring all legal steps are efficiently addressed from start to finish.
Essential Steps to Take After a California Car Crash
After a car accident in California, your immediate actions can significantly influence the success of your injury claim. Here are some steps you can take that will form the foundation of a strong claim:
1. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention Right Away
The immediate priority after an accident is checking yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if injuries aren’t apparent initially, seeking prompt medical attention is vital. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not be visible until hours or days after the crash.
2. Move Your Vehicle to Safety
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot away from traffic. That helps avoid additional collisions and ensures you’re out of harm’s way. If moving your car is impossible due to injuries or other obstacles, stay in the vehicle until help arrives.
3. Call Law Enforcement and File an Accident Report
A police report is essential for your insurance claim and can help clarify fault in future legal proceedings. Even if the officer at the scene doesn’t immediately make a report, you should visit the local police station to file one. Be sure to include all the details of the accident and any information from the other driver involved.
4. Gather and Exchange Information
Ensure to exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s), including names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and vehicle information. Take down the details of any passengers and witnesses since their testimonies could become crucial if liability is disputed.
5. Preserve Evidence by Taking Photos
If you’re able, capture multiple angles of the vehicles and surroundings, including road conditions, signs, and any hazards involved in the incident. Storing all images in one place will help keep your case organized and can assist your lawyer in presenting a thorough case to insurance companies or in court.
6. Refrain from Making Statements or Admitting Fault
Even if the accident feels like it may have been your fault, avoid stating or assuming fault at the scene. Words spoken during the heat of the moment can be misinterpreted and used against you later on.
7. Contact a Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer
Once you’re stable and have addressed your immediate health needs, reach out to a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss your case. An attorney can offer vital guidance, handle insurance negotiations, and ensure your claim moves forward efficiently.
8. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible, making sure to provide them with accurate details of the incident. Be straightforward, but stick to the facts when communicating with your insurer. Be cautious, however, about giving statements without consulting your attorney, as it might be used against you later.
9. Follow Through With Medical Treatment
Even if you’re feeling better after initial care, follow your doctor’s orders and attend any prescribed follow-up appointments. Failure to do so might hurt your health and affect the value of your claim, as insurers often seek inconsistencies in medical treatment. Keep meticulous records of your treatments, prescriptions, and all medical bills related to the accident.
Get the Legal Guidance You Need After a Car Accident
From dealing with mounting medical bills and insurance companies to handling car repairs, many obstacles exist when pursuing compensation for car accident injuries. At Setareh Law, we work hard to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Setareh Law today at (310) 659-1826 or complete our contact form to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. We offer services in both English and Spanish, ensuring that you have clear communication throughout every stage of your claim.
