Just in a California Car Accident? Steps to Protect Your Rights Fast
Just in a Car Accident? Don’t Panic. Follow These Crucial Steps to Protect Yourself & Your Rights
This holiday season, with more cars on the road and higher traffic risks, it’s important to know what to do if you or a loved one is involved in a California car accident. Below are key steps drivers and passengers should follow after a collision, along with basic insurance concepts that help protect your rights and strengthen any potential personal injury claim.
Steps to Take After a California Car Accident
Get to Safety
After a crash, check for injuries and make safety your first priority. If it’s safe, photograph the vehicles, their positions, the roadway, debris and the accident scene before moving your car. If you are in a dangerous location or at risk of another impact, move to a safe spot such as the shoulder or a nearby lot, then take photos once out of danger. Activate your hazard lights and be cautious when exiting your vehicle, staying clear of traffic and other hazards.
Photograph Everything
Once you are out of harm’s way, take clear photos of vehicle damage, visible injuries, skid marks, property damage, and anything else related to the collision. Strong visual evidence is critical in California personal injury cases.
Dial 9-1-1
Call emergency services immediately if there are injuries or hazardous conditions. First responders will provide medical care, secure the scene, and create documentation often used in car accident claims.
Identify Witnesses
Obtain contact information from witnesses who saw the crash. Their statements can become important evidence. Do not rely solely on CHP or officers at the scene to gather witness info.
Police Report and Realities
Report the collision and any new pain or discomfort you’re experiencing. Remember: police reports can contain errors or incomplete information. They reflect initial observations and should be reviewed carefully. Correcting inaccuracies can help protect your rights and strengthen your California car accident claim.
Medical Treatment
Even if your symptoms seem minor, visit a doctor promptly. Injuries from a car accident often worsen over time. Follow all treatment recommendations and report new or changing symptoms accurately. Proper documentation is essential in personal injury cases and helps link your injuries to the crash.
Notify Your Insurer
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Providing accurate and timely information early on helps preserve your claim.
Collecting evidence, documenting injuries, and reporting the collision promptly are key steps to protecting your rights after any California car accident.
Understanding Insurance Coverage: Third-Party & UM/UIM
When you are injured in a car accident, understanding insurance coverage is crucial. Third-party coverage refers to the at-fault driver’s insurance, which pays for the injuries and damages they cause.
If the driver who caused the accident does not have insurance, does not have enough insurance, or flees the scene in a hit-and-run, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help pay for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages. Although UM/UIM is not required in California, insurers must offer it and can be invaluable when other drivers lack sufficient coverage.
Why These Steps Matter
Following these steps protects your health and preserves crucial evidence needed in a California personal injury claim. During the holiday season, when accident risks spike due to heavy traffic, distracted driving, and nighttime travel taking the right steps becomes even more important.
Our legal team is ready to help guide you through the claims process, protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing and recovery.
