What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident In Los Angeles 2

Immediate Steps After a Car Accident in Los Angeles

Being involved in a car accident is disorienting, but taking the right steps in the minutes and hours afterward can make a significant difference in both your recovery and your legal claim.

Priority 1: Safety and Medical Care

• Check yourself and all passengers for injuries immediately
• Call 911 even if injuries seem minor — you may be in shock and not feeling the full impact yet
• Do not move injured persons unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic)
• Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers
• Move vehicles to the shoulder if safe and possible — this prevents secondary accidents

Priority 2: Gather Information at the Scene

• Exchange driver's license, insurance, and vehicle information with all other drivers
• Get contact information from all witnesses
• Take extensive photos and video of: all vehicle damage, vehicle positions, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and your injuries
• Look for and note any security cameras on nearby businesses or traffic infrastructure

Priority 3: File the Required Reports

• Get the police report number from responding officers
• File the California DMV SR-1 accident report within 10 days if injuries or $750+ in property damage occurred
• Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly

Priority 4: Document Your Injuries and Recovery

• See a doctor the same day — this creates a vital medical record
• Keep all medical bills, receipts, and documentation
• Document how the injury affects your daily life with a personal journal
• Photograph injuries as they evolve

What NOT to Do After a Car Accident

• Do not admit fault or apologize at the scene
• Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance without an attorney
• Do not post about the accident on social media
• Do not sign any documents or accept settlements without consulting an attorney