When you’re involved in a car accident in California, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next. However, it’s vital to stay calm and act knowledgeably to protect your rights and ensure your well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you know exactly what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
We recommend following each of these steps to ensure your safety and that of others, and to secure appropriate compensation in case of injuries or damages:
1. If there are injuries, call emergency services
The most crucial step immediately after a car accident: if you can assess for injuries, call 911 for the medical attention you and others may need. Even if injuries seem minor, be cautious, avoid entering traffic, and pay attention to your health. Sometimes, you don’t feel the effects of a crash immediately. Opt for safety and seek help if there are injuries.
2. Do not leave the scene of the accident
Leaving the scene of an accident can result in serious charges, especially if someone else is injured or dies. If there’s only property damage, provide your information to the other vehicle’s owner before leaving. Getting compensation when the responsible party flees is complicated. If the fleeing driver isn’t found, you can still turn to your uninsured motorist coverage (if you have it). If there are no serious injuries, move your car to a safe side to avoid blocking traffic. If there are serious injuries, it’s better not to move the car. In that case, tie a visible white handkerchief and use flares or signals, if you have them.
3. Exchange insurance information and take notes of what happened
Always carry your registration and insurance and ask the other driver to do the same. Take photos of the documents, including the driving license, and allow them to do the same with yours. If there are witnesses, get their information. Avoid making statements that could be used against you. Write down everything about the accident: location, details of the vehicles involved, and other relevant details
4. Take photos and videos
Capture images of the damage, injuries, and any other evidence. This will be valuable in the future. If you can’t, ask someone else to help. Always do it cautiously. In some cases, the police might decide not to come to the scene. Whether the police arrive or not, make sure to take photos of the material damages of all vehicles involved. If you need medical attention, ask someone to take photos of your injuries.
5. Be careful with what you say
Avoid making assumptions about the causes of the accident or admitting fault without an investigation. If you’re not sure about your injuries, it’s better to wait to be evaluated by a doctor before commenting. Detail any pain or symptoms. Injuries vary in severity and type.
6. Seek medical attention
Unless you’re 100% sure you’re not injured, you should head to a hospital or an urgent care clinic as soon as possible. Sometimes, symptoms associated with an injury from a car accident don’t appear until days or even weeks later. Delaying medical attention gives the responsible party’s insurance a reason to deny you compensation for injuries. It’s important to follow the medical recommendations given by your doctor. For example, if the emergency room doctor suggests a follow-up consultation with your primary care physician, that’s something you should do. If you don’t have a primary care physician, refer to step 8. If a doctor recommends physiotherapy or chiropractic care, then you should heed the doctor’s advice and seek treatment with that medical professional.
7. Consider hiring a lawyer
After an accident, having legal support is crucial. Medical costs and other expenses can be overwhelming, and insurance companies may not offer fair compensation. A lawyer will guide you and protect your rights.