Steps to Follow After Getting Into a Car Accident in Los Angeles

- Ethan M. Stone

In cases where a car accident results in more than a dented bumper or other cosmetic damage, drivers should know the steps to take to keep themselves and others physically safe in the short term and legally protected in the long term.

Although car accidents are often shocking and can make it difficult to think clearly in the moment, understanding how to navigate the situation can help drivers stay safe and ensure they receive proper compensation from an insurance company if necessary.

This notion is especially true in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, where higher population density naturally increases the likelihood of collisions. Drivers in LA should familiarize themselves with local legal resources, such as a J&Y Law car accident lawyer, to protect their rights and seek legal counsel.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident

After a car accident, drivers should first check themselves and anyone else in the vehicle for injuries. If anyone is injured, drivers should contact emergency medical services to prevent further injury. If/when possible, drivers should move their cars off the road and turn on hazard lights to reduce the risk of additional accidents.

It’s usually best to contact local law enforcement at this time as well, as police reports can be vital documents when filing insurance claims. Police can also assist with moving damaged vehicles if necessary. California law, in particular, mandates that drivers contact the police when there are injuries resulting from the accident, when there is significant property damage, or when any driver appears intoxicated, among other circumstances.

Collecting Information From the Scene and Witnesses

Once drivers are out of immediate danger and can think more clearly, they should document the accident scene and collect information from other involved parties, including eyewitnesses.

A good place to start is to take photos and write notes on the essential components of the accident, such as whether traffic control (e.g., stoplights or stop signs) was in place, the locations of the vehicles' points of impact, when the drivers first saw the other party, and so on. If necessary, drivers may want to consult their insurance representative for more information on the documentation required at the accident site.

Drivers should then exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident. Insurance company AARP states drivers should “provide the driver’s name, phone number, insurance policy number, make and model of vehicle, and vehicle identification number (VIN) from all vehicles involved” to ensure liability is assigned accurately.

Protecting One’s Legal Rights

When seeking appropriate financial compensation, consulting a local legal expert is essential. Although guidance from insurance companies alone may suffice in minor cases, more serious or complex accidents often require more sophisticated legal assistance, especially since insurers may not always be willing to provide the compensation drivers deserve.

For accidents that result in disputes over liability, denied claims from insurance companies, or severe injuries that incur additional costs like lost wages, drivers should contact legal experts who can clarify the matter and negotiate with insurance companies on their client’s behalf.

Simplifying a Complex Circumstance

Car accidents can be complicated and traumatic events, making it difficult to properly think through all the necessary steps of protecting oneself physically and legally. As such, it can be broken down into three basic steps: get yourself and others to safety, contact the appropriate authorities, and gather information from the accident scene and the other parties involved. These are the most crucial steps to take immediately after an accident.

Drivers should consider seeking legal guidance once they have the time and space to do so, as personal injury lawyers are familiar with the information drivers need to gather to protect themselves legally should the need arise. Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is difficult, especially in busy places like Los Angeles, but with the proper support, it can be manageable.

FAQ

Q: Should I call the police after getting into an accident?

A: Yes. Police reports help clarify what happened in an accident. Additionally, in California, there are instances in which drivers are legally required to contact the police.

Q: What information do I need from other parties involved in an accident?

A: At minimum, you should get the other party’s name, phone number, insurance policy number, make and model of vehicle, and vehicle identification number (VIN).

Q: Do I need to contact a personal injury lawyer after getting into an accident?

A: No, but it is highly recommended that you do so, especially if you’ve been seriously injured or are being denied a claim due to uncertainties with liability.