Being involved in a car accident in California is stressful and overwhelming. In the moments after a crash, you may be unsure where to go for medical treatment, how to document your injuries, or what steps to take to protect your personal injury claim. The decisions you make immediately after the accident can have a major impact on your health and the success of your case.
This guide breaks down where to seek medical care, what to do after a car accident, and how to avoid common insurance traps.
If you suffer significant injuries, paramedics may take you to the emergency room. The ER is the best option when you experience:
Severe pain
Head trauma or dizziness
Loss of consciousness
Chest pain
Difficulty moving or walking
Visible fractures or bleeding
If an ambulance is available and your injuries are serious, take the ambulance. If not, have a friend or family member drive you to the hospital immediately.
If your injuries appear less severe, urgent care centers are a strong alternative. Urgent care clinics can typically provide:
Triage and physical examination
X-rays and diagnostic imaging
Pain medication and muscle relaxants
Referrals for follow-up care
They often have shorter wait times and can still document your injuries—which is critical for your personal injury claim.
Even if your symptoms feel minor at first, new or worsening pain may develop days later. Contact your primary care doctor as soon as possible if you experience:
Persistent pain or stiffness
Numbness or tingling
Headaches or dizziness
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Your doctor may order additional imaging, refer you to specialists, or recommend physical therapy, chiropractic care, or orthopedic evaluation.
Seeking medical care is the first step. Your next priority is to protect your rights and strengthen your injury claim.
Even if you’re unsure whether you will pursue a claim, speaking to a personal injury lawyer early helps you avoid mistakes. An attorney can:
Advise you on next steps
Handle communications with insurance companies
Preserve evidence
Guide you through the claims process
The earlier a lawyer becomes involved, the more they can do to protect your case.
Insurance adjusters look closely at whether you follow your doctor’s treatment plan. Missing appointments or stopping treatment early may be used against you.
Keep all accident-related information organized, including:
Insurance policy details
Accident reports
Hospital and urgent care records
Medical bills and prescriptions
Treatment plans
This documentation becomes vital evidence in your claim.
Always follow your attorney’s guidance before giving a recorded statement or signing paperwork. Insurance representatives may appear friendly but are trained to reduce claim value.
Recording your symptoms daily helps demonstrate the impact of your injuries. Include:
Pain levels
New or worsening symptoms
Physical limitations
Missed work or activities
This diary can be written or recorded via audio/video.
If your injuries affect your ability to work or complete daily tasks:
Notify your employer or HR department
Seek disability documentation if needed
Ask family or friends for assistance
Being proactive helps minimize disruption during recovery.
Follow up with the responding police department or highway patrol to request a copy of the accident report. This is essential evidence for proving liability.
Most insurance adjusters reach out within 1–2 days of filing a claim. They may come from:
Property damage departments
Bodily injury units
Medical payments coverage teams
Even though an adjuster may assist with vehicle repairs or arranging a rental car, remember:
Anything you tell them can be used to reduce your settlement.
Claims adjusters are trained to identify weaknesses in your case so they can limit what the insurer pays. They may:
If property damage appears small, they may claim the collision couldn’t have caused serious injury.
They seek any evidence that reduces or shifts fault away from the insured driver.
Delays or missed appointments may be used to argue that your injuries aren’t significant.
No.
Insurance companies cannot access your medical records unless you sign a release.
Avoid signing:
HIPAA waivers
Broad medical authorizations
These documents may allow insurers to dig into unrelated medical history to weaken your claim.
The steps you take after a car accident can significantly impact your health and the strength of your personal injury claim. Getting prompt medical care, following treatment plans, and working with an experienced attorney can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
If you need guidance after a car accident in California, call Colvin Accident Lawyers at (661) 616-1177 for a free consultation. Our legal team is here to protect your rights and help you move forward.
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