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What To Do After a Car Accident in California (Step-by-Step)

If you were just in a car accident in California—especially if this is your first time—you may be unsure what to do next. This guide walks you through the steps that protect your safety, your health, and your legal options. You don’t have to know the law; that’s what we’re for.

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First Accident Ever? Start Here.

If this is your first accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Focus on safety and medical care; document what you can; avoid admitting fault or signing anything from the other side’s insurer before talking to a lawyer. A free case review can clarify your options with no obligation.

Step-by-Step: What To Do After a Car Accident

  1. Stay safe. If you can, move vehicles out of traffic and turn on hazards. Check for injuries; call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the crash is serious.
  2. Call the police. In California you must report an accident when someone is injured or property damage exceeds $1,000. The report helps establish fault and is used by insurers. See Do I Need a Police Report? for details.
  3. Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, license plate, insurance company and policy number, and contact info. Get names and phone numbers of witnesses if possible.
  4. Document the scene. Take photos of vehicles, damage, license plates, and the surrounding area. Note the time, location, and conditions.
  5. Seek medical care. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain. If the impact was significant or you hit your head, get checked. Delayed pain after a car accident is common; early treatment supports your health and your claim.
  6. Notify your insurer. Report the accident to your own carrier as required by your policy. For your injury claim you will typically pursue the at-fault driver’s insurance—or your uninsured motorist coverage if they have no insurance.
  7. Talk to a lawyer before giving statements. Avoid giving a recorded statement to the other side’s insurance before speaking with an attorney. See When Should I Call a Lawyer? and how insurance companies handle claims.

Why Police Reports Take Time in California

In California, police reports can take several days or longer to be available. You do not have to wait for the report to seek medical care or contact a lawyer. Your attorney can request the report when it’s ready and use it to support your claim. See Do I Need a Police Report After a Car Accident? for more.

Worried About Your Deductible?

Many people worry about paying a deductible before their car is fixed. For your injury claim against the at-fault driver, you do not pay a deductible—you are seeking compensation from their insurance. Our firm does not charge you upfront; we get paid only if we recover for you. If you can’t afford a deductible for your own vehicle repair, see What If I Can’t Afford My Deductible?.

When Should I Call a Lawyer?

You can call as soon as you are safe. Early advice helps with evidence, statements, and insurance. There is no obligation; a free case review clarifies your options. For how insurers value claims, see How Insurance Adjusters Value Claims and our Insurance Company Playbook.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a police report after a car accident?

California law requires reporting an accident when someone is injured or property damage exceeds $1,000. A report helps establish fault and is useful for insurance. You can still see a doctor and contact a lawyer before the report is ready.

Should I go to the ER even if I feel fine?

Adrenaline can mask pain. If you were in a significant impact or hit your head, getting checked is wise. Delayed pain is common; early documentation supports your claim.

When should I call a lawyer after an accident?

You can call as soon as you are safe. Early advice helps with evidence, statements, and insurance. There is no obligation; a free case review clarifies your options.

What if I can’t afford my deductible?

For your injury claim against the at-fault driver you don’t pay a deductible—you seek compensation from their insurance. For your own car repair, options depend on your policy and shop; we can discuss during a free review.

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