After a car accident in California, protect your safety, document the scene, report the accident when required, seek medical care, and take steps to protect your legal rights.
This guide explains each step clearly.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call for Help
Stop your vehicle immediately.
Turn on hazard lights.
Move to a safe area if possible.
Call 911 if anyone is injured, traffic is blocked, or vehicles cannot be moved.
California law requires drivers involved in accidents to stop and provide assistance when reasonable.
Reference:
California Vehicle Code §20001
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
Step 2: Exchange Information
You must exchange the following with all involved parties:
Name and address
Driver license number
Vehicle registration
Insurance details
Failure to exchange information can lead to legal consequences.
Reference:
California Vehicle Code §16025
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
Step 3: Document the Scene
Use your phone to collect evidence:
Photos of vehicle damage
Road conditions and traffic signs
License plates
Visible injuries
Witness contact information
This evidence often becomes critical if fault is disputed.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries do not appear immediately.
Get checked even if symptoms seem minor
Follow all medical advice
Keep records of treatment and expenses
Medical documentation links your injuries directly to the accident.
Step 5: Report the Accident to the DMV
You must file a DMV Form SR-1 within 10 days if:
Anyone was injured or killed, or
Property damage exceeds $1,000
Reference:
California DMV Accident Reporting
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/dmv-safety-guidelines-actions/accident-reporting
Step 6: Understand Fault in California
California follows pure comparative negligence.
You can recover damages even if partially at fault
Compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
Reference:
California Courts
https://www.courts.ca.gov
Final Thought
Car accidents often involve medical bills, missed work, and insurance disputes. Taking the correct steps early protects both your health and your claim.