Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on California’s busy roads and highways. Even the most careful drivers may find themselves involved in a collision caused by distracted driving, speeding, unsafe road conditions, or reckless behavior by others. Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident can make the difference between protecting your health, safeguarding your legal rights, and ensuring you receive fair compensation—or being left vulnerable to insurance company tactics and financial hardship.
At California Trial Law Group, our attorneys have represented countless accident victims across the state. We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can feel, which is why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
Your first priority after a collision is safety. Move to a secure location if possible, but do not leave the scene of the accident. Call 911 immediately to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Police officers will create an official accident report, which is often critical evidence in any future legal claims.
Even if you feel fine, many car accident injuries—such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding—do not appear until hours or days later. A prompt medical evaluation ensures your injuries are documented and linked to the accident. These medical records will serve as vital evidence when seeking compensation.
If it’s safe to do so, collect as much information as possible at the accident scene:
The more evidence you gather, the stronger your claim will be.
California law requires drivers to notify their insurance companies after an accident. Be honest about what happened but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, so keep your communication factual and brief.
In California, you must file a Form SR-1 with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days if the accident resulted in:
Failing to file this report can result in penalties, including suspension of your driver’s license.
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages—your compensation will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% responsible for the accident, you could still recover 80% of your total damages.
From the moment of the accident forward, document everything related to your injuries and expenses. This includes:
These records will help establish the full extent of your losses when seeking compensation.
Perhaps the most important step you can take is contacting an experienced attorney. Insurance companies injuries and expenses often pressure accident victims into accepting quick settlements that don’t cover the full cost of their injuries. A lawyer can investigate the accident, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, take your case to court.
At California Trial Law Group, we fight to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation available under California law. Attorney Ike Kaludi and our team have the knowledge and resources to handle even the most complex car accident claims, from multi-vehicle collisions to cases involving uninsured drivers.
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Victims often face obstacles such as:
Having a skilled lawyer on your side helps you overcome these challenges and secure fair treatment.
A car accident can change your life in an instant. While no one is ever fully prepared for the chaos of a collision, knowing what steps to take can protect your health, your rights, and your future.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, California Trial Law Group is here to help. We handle every stage of the process—from initial investigation to settlement negotiations and trial if needed—so you can focus on healing.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
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