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What Should I Do at the Scene of a Car Accident


Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful. The actions you take immediately following a collision are crucial for your safety, health, and any potential legal claims. At Lem Garcia Law, we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the chaotic moments after an accident with confidence and clarity.

Assess Your Safety and Health

Your wellbeing is the top priority following any accident. Before taking any other action, ensure that you and your passengers are safe.

Check for Injuries

  • Perform a quick self-assessment for pain, bleeding, or difficulty moving
  • Remain still if you suspect neck or back injuries
  • Check if you’re experiencing dizziness, confusion, or blurred vision

Move to a Safe Location if Possible

  • If your vehicle is drivable and in traffic, move to the shoulder or nearby parking lot
  • Turn off the engine to prevent fire hazards
  • Stay inside your vehicle with seatbelts fastened if you’re in heavy traffic and cannot safely exit

Check on Others Involved

Once you’ve ensured your own safety, check on the wellbeing of others involved in the accident if it’s safe to do so.

Check Passengers for Injuries

  • Ask passengers if they’re hurt or need medical attention
  • Advise them to remain still if they report neck or back pain
  • Help passengers exit the vehicle if it’s unsafe to remain inside

Approach Other Vehicles if Safe

  • Check on occupants of other vehicles if you can safely do so
  • Do not move injured individuals unless they’re in immediate danger
  • Offer reassurance and state that help is on the way

Call Emergency Services

Promptly notifying the appropriate authorities ensures that everyone receives necessary medical attention and that the accident is properly documented.

Provide Your Exact Location

  • Give the street name, nearest cross streets, or mile markers
  • Mention landmarks that might help emergency services locate you
  • Stay on the line until the dispatcher says you can hang up

Describe the Accident, Noting Injuries and Hazards

  • Clearly state how many vehicles and people are involved
  • Report any visible injuries or trapped individuals
  • Alert dispatchers to potential hazards like leaking fluids or traffic issues

Secure the Accident Scene

Taking steps to prevent further accidents or injuries is essential while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Turn on Hazard Lights

  • Activate your vehicle’s hazard lights immediately
  • This alerts other drivers to slow down and proceed with caution
  • Visibility is especially important at night or in poor weather conditions

Set Up Flares or Warning Triangles if Available

  • Place warning devices approximately 50 feet behind your vehicle
  • Create a visual warning pattern if you have multiple flares
  • Consider keeping emergency flares or reflective triangles in your vehicle

Exchange Information With Other Drivers

Gathering accurate contact and insurance information is critical for any insurance claim or potential legal action.

Names, Contact, and Insurance Information

  • Full names and phone numbers of all drivers involved
  • Home and email addresses for reliable contact
  • Insurance company names, policy numbers, and contact information

Vehicle Make, Model, and License Plate Numbers

  • Note the year, make, and model of all vehicles involved
  • Record license plate numbers and the state of registration
  • Document the vehicle identification numbers (VIN) if possible

Document the Accident

Thorough documentation of the accident scene can be invaluable for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings.

Take Photos From Multiple Angles

  • Capture images of all vehicles involved, showing points of impact
  • Photograph the entire accident scene, including road conditions
  • Take pictures of skid marks, debris, and relevant traffic signs or signals

Note the Time, Date, and Weather Conditions

  • Record the exact time and date of the accident
  • Document weather conditions, road conditions, and visibility
  • Note any unusual circumstances that may have contributed to the accident

Gather Witness Statements and Contact Information

  • Ask witnesses what they saw and record their statements
  • Collect names and contact information from all witnesses
  • Ask if they’re willing to speak with insurance representatives or attorneys later

Report the Accident to Your Insurance

Promptly notifying your insurance company about the accident is essential for processing your claim efficiently.

Provide a Factual Account of the Accident

  • Stick to the facts when describing what happened
  • Avoid admitting fault or making definitive statements about cause
  • Be honest and straightforward in your description

Submit Photos and Witness Information

  • Share all documentation you gathered at the scene
  • Provide witness contact information to your insurance adjuster
  • Keep copies of everything you submit for your records

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine immediately after an accident, it’s important to be evaluated by a medical professional.

Even for Minor Injuries or Shock

  • Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately
  • Shock can mask pain and other symptoms
  • Medical documentation connects your injuries to the accident

Follow Up With Healthcare Providers as Needed

  • Attend all recommended follow-up appointments
  • Complete prescribed therapy or treatment plans
  • Keep detailed records of all medical visits and expenses

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer 

Hiring an experienced car crash lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

If There Are Significant Damages or Injuries

  • Serious injuries often result in substantial medical bills and lost wages
  • An auto accident attorney can help you understand the full value of your claim
  • Legal representation often results in higher settlements

For Disputes Over Fault or Insurance Claims

  • Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your compensation
  • Disagreements about fault can complicate claims
  • A car wreck lawyer can advocate on your behalf with insurance companies

Notify the DMV if Your Accident Meets Reporting Criteria

In California, certain accidents must be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. Understanding these requirements is essential to avoid penalties and license suspension.

When DMV Reporting is Required

  • Accidents involving injuries or death, regardless of how minor the injury
  • Accidents with property damage exceeding $1,000 to any one person
  • Submit Form SR-1 (Traffic Accident Report) within the required timeframe

What to Include in Your DMV Report

  • Complete information about all drivers and vehicles involved
  • Description of property damage and any injuries
  • Insurance information for all parties
  • Failure to report can result in driver’s license suspension

Your Recovery Starts Here – Book a 100% Free Consultation!

Don’t handle the aftermath of a car accident alone. At Lem Garcia Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that car accidents can take on victims and their families. Our experienced team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.

Take the first step toward recovery by scheduling your free, no-obligation case evaluation today. During this consultation, we’ll review the details of your accident, answer your questions, and provide clear guidance on your legal options.

There’s no fee unless we win your case. Don’t wait – California law limits the time you have to file a claim after an accident. Let us help you protect your rights and secure your future.

 

Car Accidents