What to Do If You’re Involved in a Car Accident in California

Posted on July 18, 2025 | Written By: Corey Higgins

Car Accident’s Are Stressful, Here Is What You Should Know

Is Everyone Safe?

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do in the aftermath can help protect your health, your rights, and your finances. In California, the first step is to stop your vehicle immediately and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and render reasonable assistance. Even in minor accidents, it’s important to move to a safe location if possible and alert law enforcement. A police report may be critical later, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.

Exchange Information

Next, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. This includes names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, get their contact details as well. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be vital when filing insurance claims or if legal issues arise. California law also requires drivers to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the DMV within 10 days using Form SR-1.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Finally, notify your insurance company promptly and provide accurate details about the incident. Avoid admitting fault, even casually, as liability will be determined during the claims process. It’s also wise to consult an attorney if there are serious injuries or disputes over fault. California is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the car accident is financially responsible for damages, so understanding your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Know Your Rights

If you’ve been injured in a car, motorcycle, or boat accident as a result of the negligence of another person you have legal rights. At I Accident Lawyer our team of personal injury lawyers will fight to protect those rights. We have over 30 years of experience representing car accident victims just like you. We can guide you through the entire legal process and protect you from harassing phone calls from insurance companies looking to limit what you receive. Don’t hesitate until it is too late! Call our toll-free number, 800 920-0810, for a free consultation today! For more information, visit here: https://iaccidentlawyer.com/

So Let’s Reiterate About What TO Do After A Car Accident

1. 1. Ensure Safety
      • Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
      • Move vehicles to a safe location if possible.
   2. Call Law Enforcement
      • Required if there are injuries or significant damage.
      • Request the officer’s name and report number.
   3. Exchange Information
      • Get names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle info.
      • Take photos of documents if possible.
   4. Document the Scene
      • Photograph damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries.
      • Collect witness names and contact info.
   5. Do Not Admit Fault
      • Stick to the facts. Even an apology can be used against you.

Medical and Legal Follow-Up

1. 1. • Seek Medical Attention
   2. • Even if you feel fine—some injuries (like whiplash or concussions) show up later.
   3. • Medical records help link injuries to the crash.
   4. • File a DMV Report
   5. • Required within 10 days if there’s injury, death, or damage over $1,000.
   6. • Use Form SR-1 from the California DMV.
   7. • Notify Your Insurance
   8. • Most policies require reporting within 24–72 hours.
   9. • Stick to objective facts—don’t speculate or admit fault.

Legal Considerations

1. 1. • California is a Comparative Negligence State
   2. • You can recover damages even if partially at fault.
   3. • Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
   4. • Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
   5. • Especially if there are injuries, disputes, or unclear fault.
   6. • Lawyers often work on contingency—no fee unless you win.

Build Your Case

Keep a file with:

1. 1. • Medical records and bills
      • Photos and videos
      • Witness statements
      • Police and DMV reports
      • Insurance correspondence
      • A personal injury journal (pain levels, emotional impact, daily limitations)

Hire an Accident Attorney Near You In California

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto collision, the iAccident Lawyer strongly encourages you to call our California car accident lawyers. Your experienced Car Accident Lawyer will provide you with the best legal representation and guidance that you need. Our offices are conveniently located throughout California and we conduct regular travels in the region to meet with clients. Contact Car Accident Lawyer today.

Corey Higgins

Corey Higgins has been working at Accident Attorneys’ Group for 2 years. iAccident Lawyer is part of the Law Firms & Legal Services industry, and located in California, United States.

iAccident Lawyer provides personal injury and accident related legal services for the entire state of California. The Group serves injury victims of numerous types of accidents such as car, truck, personal injuries, dog bites, slip and fall and more.

• Law School: Whittier Law School
• Status: In Good Standing
• Licensed: 14 years