What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in California?

 Posted on January 06, 2026 in Car Accidents

After a car accident in California, what you do right away can affect both your health and your legal options. You should focus on safety, documentation, and protecting your rights from the very beginning.

In 2025, preliminary traffic safety data show that California roadways had 3,727 fatal crashes and 14,412 serious-injury crashes, underscoring the real risks drivers face across the state. As of 2026, California still follows an at-fault system, which means injured drivers must prove who caused the crash and how they were harmed.

If you were injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, the LA County, CA car accident lawyers at Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. can help you understand what steps to take next and how to protect your claim.

What Should You Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?

Your priority after a crash is safety. If you can move, get yourself out of traffic and check for injuries. Call 911 so police and medical responders can come to the scene and create an official record.

If your condition allows, try to do the following:

• Get medical help for yourself and anyone else who is injured.

• Cooperate with law enforcement and provide basic identifying information.

• Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver.

• Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.

• Collect names and contact information for witnesses.

Under California Vehicle Code § 20008, drivers involved in an injury accident must report the crash to law enforcement. A police report often becomes an important piece of evidence later.

When Should You Seek Medical Care After a Car Accident?

You should seek medical care as soon as possible after a crash, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as concussions or soft-tissue injuries, may not cause immediate pain. Symptoms can appear hours or even days later.

Medical records also help protect your legal claim. Insurance companies often question injuries when treatment is delayed. Early care helps show that your injuries were caused by the accident and required real medical attention.

How Does California’s At-Fault System Affect a Car Accident Claim?

Under California’s at-fault system, the driver who caused the crash is responsible for the damages that result. However, to recover compensation, you, as the one filing the claim, must show that the other driver acted negligently. Legally, that means they failed to use reasonable care.

For example, maybe they were driving while distracted, speeding, failing to yield, or driving under the influence. Once fault is established, claims are usually handled through the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, it may become necessary to file a lawsuit.

What Information Should You Document After a Car Crash in California?

Documentation strengthens a car accident claim. The more clearly you can show what happened and how the crash affected you, the easier it is to support your case.

Helpful evidence often includes:

• Medical records showing diagnosis and treatment

• Medical bills and receipts for out-of-pocket costs

• Repair estimates or vehicle replacement records

• Proof of lost wages or reduced income

• A written timeline of events while details are still fresh

Because certain statements may be limited in court under California Evidence Code § 1151, having independent documentation becomes especially important.

What If You Are Partly at Fault for the Accident?

Sometimes, both people involved in an accident are at fault. When that happens, California follows a pure comparative negligence rule under California Civil Code § 1714.

This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20 percent at fault, 20 percent will be subtracted from the recoverable compensation. Because fault percentages directly affect recovery, strong evidence and careful case handling are crucial.

What Mistakes Can Hurt a Car Accident Claim?

Certain actions after a crash can weaken an otherwise valid claim. The following are common mistakes to avoid:

• Giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without guidance

• Posting about the accident or injuries on social media

• Skipping follow-up medical appointments

• Accepting a quick settlement before understanding long-term needs

Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce payouts. Being cautious early helps prevent unnecessary problems.

When Should You Contact a Car Accident Lawyer?

You may want to speak with a lawyer soon after a crash. Getting help early makes it easier to preserve evidence and keep track of important deadlines.

A lawyer can investigate how the accident happened, handle communication with insurance companies, and explain your options in plain terms. Most importantly, they identify all recoverable damages to ensure you request the full value of your losses. That support allows you to focus on healing while your claim is handled carefully from the start.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Los Angeles, CA Car Accident Attorneys

If you were injured in a car accident, you need an experienced team. At Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C., we bring more than 30 years of legal experience to personal injury cases and have helped recover over $100 million in favorable verdicts and settlements for clients.

Call us today at 818-242-8201 to schedule a free consultation with our LA County, CA car accident lawyers.