Crash Course: What to Do After a Car Accident
Here’s What to Do After a Car Accident in California
Accidents happen in a split second—but what you do right after can make all the difference. At Yona Law Group, we’re here to ensure you’re not only safe, but set up for success when it comes to your legal and financial recovery. Whether you’re dealing with a fender-bender in West L.A. or a major collision on the 405, knowing what to do immediately after a crash can protect your health, your rights, and your compensation.
Why the First Steps Matter
Those post-accident moments are crucial. Here's why your actions carry legal and financial weight:
- Preserve evidence that can prove fault and damages
- Protect your rights against pushy insurance adjusters
- Avoid missteps that could weaken your claim or cost you money
The 10 Essential Steps After a California Car Accident:
1. Check for Injuries & Call 911
Safety first. Assess yourself and passengers, then call 911—even for minor accidents. Some injuries (like concussions or internal bleeding) take hours or days to appear.
2. Get Law Enforcement on the Scene
Always file a police report. Whether it’s the LAPD or local CHP, an official record is often essential for both insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
3. Gather & Document Evidence
Pull out your phone and document everything:
- Damage to all vehicles
- Road conditions, signage, and skid marks
- Injuries (yours and others’)
- Witness contact info
- Where the vehicles landed post-impact
4. Exchange Info—But Zip It on Fault
Exchange:
- Name, address, phone number
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- License plate & vehicle details
But don’t admit fault, apologize, or speculate—liability is a legal determination, not a roadside decision.
5. Move to Safety
If your car is driveable, pull to the shoulder or a safe area. Turn on your hazards to avoid a second collision.
6. Seek Immediate Medical Care
Even if you feel okay, go get checked out. Adrenaline can mask symptoms. And documenting your injuries from day one helps prove your case later.
7. Tell Your Insurance—Carefully
Notify your insurer about the crash promptly. But do not give a recorded statement without first talking to your attorney at Yona Law Group.
8. Track All Injuries, Losses & Expenses
Keep receipts, bills, and notes on:
- Medical treatments and medications
- Missed work and lost wages
- Car repairs or replacements
- Transportation, home help, and more
9. Avoid These Common Mistakes
Do not:
- Admit fault or say “sorry”
- Post anything about the crash on social media
- Sign anything without legal review
- Accept a lowball settlement from insurance
10. Call Yona Law Group
We know California personal injury law inside and out. We deal with the legal headaches so you can focus on healing. From negotiating with insurers to litigating in court, our team fights for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Yona Law Group?
Our experienced Los Angeles car accident attorneys are relentless advocates for injury victims. We’ve helped countless clients navigate California’s legal system after devastating crashes, and we don’t back down from big insurance companies. With us, you're not just a case number—you’re family.
📞 Free Consultation Available
Don’t wait. Call Yona Law Group today for a free case review and let us handle the rest. Call us at (310) 295-0250.
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