Every year, thousands of car accidents happen across Los Angeles County — on the 405, the 101, the 10, and on surface streets from South LA to Sherman Oaks. What you do in the minutes and days after a crash can make or break your personal injury case. Here is your complete guide.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if the accident seems minor, always call 911. The police report created by responding officers is one of the most important pieces of evidence in any personal injury claim. It documents the scene, weather conditions, witness statements, and the officer’s assessment of fault.

In Los Angeles, you can also report the accident to the LAPD online if there are no injuries, but we strongly recommend an in-person report.

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

This is non-negotiable, even if you feel fine. Many serious injuries have delayed symptoms:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) — headaches, confusion, and memory issues may not appear for hours or days
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries — neck pain and stiffness often worsen over 24-72 hours
• Internal bleeding — can be life-threatening and show no external signs

Your medical records also serve as critical evidence connecting your injuries to the accident. If you wait weeks to see a doctor, the insurance company will argue your injuries aren’t from the crash.

Step 3: Document Everything at the Scene

If you are physically able, gather as much evidence as possible:

• Photograph vehicle damage from multiple angles
• Photograph the intersection, traffic signals, skid marks, and road conditions
• Get the other driver’s name, phone, insurance information, and license plate
• Get contact information from any witnesses
• Note the time, weather, and lighting conditions

Step 4: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance

The other driver’s insurance company will call you quickly — sometimes within hours. They will sound friendly and concerned. They may offer you a quick settlement. Do not fall for it.

Their goal is to get you on record saying something that minimizes your claim. Phrases like “I’m feeling okay” or “it wasn’t that bad” can be used against you in court. You are under no legal obligation to speak with them. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch.

Step 5: Do NOT Accept a Quick Settlement

Insurance companies know that the full extent of your injuries may not be apparent for weeks or months. They want to settle before you realize how much your case is actually worth. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you cannot go back for more money — even if your injuries turn out to be far worse than expected.

Step 6: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

An experienced attorney will:

• Handle all communication with insurance companies
• Investigate the accident and preserve evidence
• Calculate the full value of your claim (including future medical costs and lost earning capacity)
• Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
• Take your case to trial if the insurance company won’t pay what you deserve

Know Your Deadlines: California Statute of Limitations

Under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the at-fault party is a government entity (city bus, USPS truck, etc.), you must file an administrative tort claim within six months.

Missing these deadlines means losing your right to compensation forever. Don’t wait.