The moments following a car accident can be disorienting and stressful. However, the actions you take immediately after a crash can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. California law imposes specific requirements on drivers involved in accidents, and following the right steps protects both your legal rights and your health.
At the Scene: Immediate Steps
1. Stop And Stay At The Scene
California Vehicle Code Sections 20001 and 20002 require all drivers involved in an accident to stop immediately. Leaving the scene of an accident—especially one involving injuries—is a serious criminal offense that can result in felony charges, fines, and imprisonment.
2. Check For Injuries And Call 911
Before anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone appears injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, requesting emergency medical services ensures that injured parties receive prompt care and creates an official record of the accident.
For accidents involving injury or death, California law requires you to notify the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP). If you cannot contact authorities at the scene, you must report to the nearest police station within 24 hours.
3. Move To Safety If Possible
If your vehicle is operable and it’s safe to do so, California Vehicle Code Section 22651 requires you to move your car out of traffic lanes. This prevents secondary accidents and keeps everyone safer. However, if there are serious injuries or vehicle damage makes it unsafe to move, leave the vehicles where they are and wait for emergency responders.
4. Exchange Information
California law requires drivers to exchange specific information with all other parties involved. You should collect:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number and state
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and year
- Insurance company name and policy number
Ask to see the other driver’s license and insurance card, and photograph both documents for accuracy.
5. Document The Scene
Thorough documentation strengthens your claim significantly. Use your smartphone to capture:
- Wide shots showing the overall accident scene
- Close-up photos of all vehicle damage
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Traffic signs, signals, and lane markings
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Your visible injuries
Take photos from multiple angles and include license plates in your images.
6. Gather Witness Information
If bystanders witnessed the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Witness statements can be crucial in establishing what happened, particularly when the other driver disputes fault. A brief description of what they saw can be helpful if their memory fades before an investigator contacts them.
7. File A Police Report
Even if police don’t respond to the scene, you should file a report with local law enforcement or CHP. A police report creates an official record of the accident and may contain the officer’s assessment of fault—valuable evidence for your claim.
What NOT To Do At The Scene
Don’t Admit Fault
Avoid saying “I’m sorry” or anything that could be interpreted as accepting blame. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, you may not have the full picture. Let investigators and insurance adjusters determine fault based on evidence.
Don’t Discuss The Accident With The Other Driver
Beyond exchanging required information, limit your conversation. Anything you say can be used against you later. Stick to the facts: names, contact information, and insurance details.
Don’t Refuse Medical Attention
If emergency responders suggest you need medical evaluation, accept it. Adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms, and some injuries—including traumatic brain injuries and whiplash—may not show symptoms immediately.
After Leaving The Scene
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, see a doctor within 24-48 hours. Prompt medical evaluation accomplishes two important goals: it ensures you receive proper treatment, and it creates medical records linking your injuries directly to the accident. Waiting too long gives insurance companies ammunition to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the crash.
Report The Accident To The DMV
California law requires you to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the California DMV within 10 days. You must complete and submit Form SR-1 (Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California), regardless of who caused the accident.
This requirement is separate from any police report. Failing to file Form SR-1 can result in suspension of your driver’s license.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Most policies require timely notification of accidents. When speaking with your insurer, stick to the basic facts and avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries.
Be Cautious With The Other Driver’s Insurance Company
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly after the accident. Remember that their goal is to minimize what they pay. Do not provide a recorded statement or sign any documents without consulting an attorney. For more guidance, see our page on dealing with insurance companies after an accident.
Keep Detailed Records
Create a file containing all accident-related documents:
- Police report
- Medical records and bills
- Repair estimates and invoices
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Photos from the accident scene
- Witness contact information
- A journal documenting your symptoms and recovery
This documentation supports your claim and helps ensure you receive full compensation. For more details, see our guide on what evidence you need for a personal injury claim.
Consult A Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve suffered significant injuries, consulting a personal injury lawyer early in the process protects your rights. An attorney can handle communications with insurance companies, preserve evidence, and ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines like California’s two-year statute of limitations.
California Reporting Deadlines At A Glance
| Requirement | Deadline |
| Report to Police (Injuries/Death) | 24 Hours |
| File DMV Form SR-1 | 10 Days |
| Notify Your Insurance | Per Policy (Usually Promptly) |
| File Personal Injury Lawsuit | 2 Years |
| Government Claims | 6 Months |
Talk To A California Car Accident Lawyer
Being in a car accident is stressful, but knowing the right steps to take can protect your health and your legal rights. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, Cohen Injury Law Group can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We serve accident victims throughout Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Malibu, and all of California.
Contact us today for a free consultation.