Getting into a crash can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do immediately after a car accident in California helps you stay safe and protect your legal rights. At Colvin Accident Lawyers, we guide accident victims through every step so they can focus on healing.
Your safety comes first. Check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone needs medical help, call 911 right away. Move to a safe area if you can do so without causing further harm.
In California, you must report an accident that causes injuries or significant property damage. A police report helps document the crash and often becomes valuable evidence later. Immediately after a car accident, call the police. Give officers accurate and clear information.
If you’re able, collect evidence before vehicles move:
Photos of all vehicles, damage, skid marks, and the road
Driver’s license, insurance, and contact information
Witness names and phone numbers
Any video footage from nearby businesses or dashcams
This evidence helps establish fault and strengthens your claim.
Stay calm and polite, but avoid saying anything that may be interpreted as admitting fault—even casually. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or other drivers.
Many injuries—especially soft-tissue, brain, and internal injuries—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam protects your health and ties your injuries to the crash.
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as you can. Give only basic details until you speak with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to reduce payouts.
The other driver’s insurance company wants to protect its bottom line. Our team protects you. We handle communication, preserve your claim, and fight for full compensation for:
Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Long-term care
You should focus on recovery—let us deal with the rest.
Attend all appointments, follow your doctor’s treatment plan, and keep records. Consistent care helps your health and strengthens your injury claim.
Save every medical bill, repair estimate, prescription receipt, and communication related to the crash. These documents help prove the value of your damages.
You aren’t required to hire one, but having an attorney often leads to higher compensation. A lawyer protects your rights and negotiates with insurance companies.
California generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims for property damage usually have a three-year limit.
Not without an attorney. Adjusters may try to get statements that weaken your case.
You may still recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. We can help review your policy.
We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.
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