What to Do After a Car Accident in California
The steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash can shape your whole claim. Here is a simple checklist to protect your health and your rights.
At the scene, get safe and call 911
Check for injuries and get out of traffic if you can. Call 911 so police create an official report, even for a crash that seems minor.
Document everything
Photograph the vehicles, the damage, the scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the other driver's name, license, insurance, and plate, plus names and numbers for any witnesses.
Get medical care — even if you feel fine
Some injuries appear hours or days later, and a gap in treatment can be used against you. See a doctor promptly and keep every record and bill.
Be careful with insurers
Report the crash to your own insurer, but be cautious about giving a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer — and do not accept a quick settlement — before you have advice.
Protect your claim
Keep a file of everything: photos, bills, the crash report, and communications. California also requires reporting certain crashes to the DMV, so note that deadline, then consider a free case review.
Dealing with a crash right now?
A quick, confidential review can tell you where you stand — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different.