Car accidents in California are an unfortunate reality given the state’s busy roads. From fender benders on freeways to more severe collisions at intersections, the aftermath of an accident can feel overwhelming.
Knowing how to protect your rights and seek due compensation is crucial—and that’s where Frantz Law Group steps in. With decades of experience as California’s trusted accident attorneys, we’ve helped thousands of accident victims secure the outcomes they deserve after serious auto accidents.
Did you know that California saw over 4,400 traffic fatalities and tens of thousands of additional injuries in 2022 alone? That’s 12 people every day. These sobering statistics underscore how common and urgent the issue of motor vehicle accidents is in the Golden State.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
- The critical steps to take after a car accident.
- Key details about California’s fault-based system.
- Common and severe injuries and important legal deadlines.
- How an experienced car accident lawyer can help you maximize compensation.
Immediate Steps After a California Car Accident
When an accident happens, emotions run high. Shock, anger, confusion—it’s all normal. But your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact any car accident injury claim you might pursue later.
The car insurance company overseeing your claim will search for reasons to deny or diminish your benefits, such as an admission of guilt or a delay in seeking medical care. What you do (and don’t do) after an accident can affect your ability to recover financial compensation for your losses.
If you get involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, take certain steps immediately to protect yourself and your legal rights.
What to Do After a Car Accident
1. Safety First
Check yourself and others for injuries and move to safety if possible. Turn on hazard lights to alert oncoming traffic. Keeping yourself and others out of further harm’s way is priority number one.
Seek medical attention immediately. Even if no one appears injured initially, latent injuries, such as whiplash or head trauma, can surface in the hours or days after.
2. Call 911
Whether it’s a minor or major accident, always report it to authorities and contact the police. Police reports serve as critical evidence in legal cases and insurance claims.
3. Document the Scene of the Accident
Take photos of everything—the damage to vehicles, your injuries, the accident scene (skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions)—as well as weather and lighting conditions. These images can provide undeniable proof of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
4. Gather Evidence and Information
Get the contact information of any witnesses. Keep a record of any medical treatment you receive.
And don’t forget to maintain a record of any correspondence with the insurance company.
5. Exchange Information
Gather details such as:
- Driver’s license numbers and names
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance details
- Contact information
Avoid apologizing or admitting fault—it might be used against you later.
6. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a healthcare professional. Not only does this ensure your health, but it also documents your injuries for any potential legal proceedings.
By following these steps, you’re building a solid foundation for your personal injury claim.
7. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer.
An experienced California car accident attorney should have a proven track record of success in recovering compensation for their clients, specifically in this state. A successful track record in handling car accident cases is crucial in ensuring you receive the best representation.
Expertise in California car accident laws is also essential in navigating the complex process of filing a claim and negotiating with insurance companies.
Our car accident lawyers at Frantz Law Group can help you understand the best course of action for your case.
Understanding California’s Fault-Based System
California operates under a fault-based insurance system, which means the party determined to be at fault for an accident is legally responsible for any damages caused. Here’s how the system works:
How Fault is Determined
Fault determination often relies on police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence. Insurance companies also investigate to decide who bears responsibility.
Comparative Negligence in California
California follows the comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages even if you are partially the at-fault driver. For example, if you’re deemed 20% at fault and awarded $10,000, your compensation is reduced to $8,000.
The Role of Insurance Companies
While insurance providers are supposed to offer fair compensation, don’t forget their primary goal—to save money. They may attempt to downplay your claim or deny it altogether. This makes it essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney advocating for you.
The Role of a California Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal process without expert guidance can feel like a second injury. That’s where hiring auto accident attorneys, like the experienced team at Frantz Law Group, becomes invaluable.
How an Attorney Helps
- Legal expertise: Understanding statutes, deadlines, and legal loopholes is their forte.
- Negotiation Skills: Attorneys negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to maximize your settlement.
- Representation: Whether filing paperwork or representing you in court, they’ll handle the heavy lifting.
Why Experience Matters
Not all attorneys are created equal. Experience ensures they understand the nuances of state-specific laws, giving you the best shot at maximum compensation you deserve.
Choose someone with a proven track record in California car accident cases.
Common Car Accident Injuries in California
Some accident-related injuries may seem minor at first but worsen over time. Here are a few of the most commonly reported injuries from car crashes:
1. Whiplash
Soft tissue injuries like whiplash can cause persistent neck pain and headaches.
2. Back Injuries
Spinal injuries can lead to herniated discs, chronic pain, or worse—permanent disability.
3. Head Trauma
Internal injuries like concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can have long-lasting effects, including memory loss and cognitive impairment.
Untreated or poorly documented serious injuries complicate injury claims. Always prioritize your health and document medical expenses thoroughly.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim in California
If you’ve been injured in an accident, filing a personal injury claim can recover compensation for damages like medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Steps to Filing a Claim
- Gather Evidence: Police reports, medical bills, photos, witness info, the other party’s insurance company.
- Notify Insurance: File a report with your insurance provider.
- Consult an Attorney: Legal expertise increases your chances of success.
Statute of Limitations
California law generally allows two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline may result in forfeiting your right to compensation.
What Evidence is Needed?
- Medical documentation
- Proof of lost wages (e.g., pay stubs)
- Witness testimony or contact information
- Police and accident reports
Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and negotiating with insurance companies. They can also help you recover maximum compensation for your damages, including hospital costs, surgeries, and lost wages.
Experienced car accident attorneys can increase your chances of winning your personal injury case by determining the at-fault parties and negotiating with car insurance companies.
Plus, the best car accident law firm can help you understand what types and amounts to list in your initial demand letter against the at-fault party.
Experience the Frantz Law Group Difference
When it comes to protecting your rights after a California car accident, Frantz Law Group brings decades of excellence in helping car accident victims.
- Depth and breadth of experience: Our personal injury lawyers possess a wealth of knowledge concerning car accident claims and have the ability to assist you in a wide range of car accident types and causes.
- Aggressive representation: Talking to our California car accident attorneys before speaking to an insurance claims adjuster can give you all the information and confidence you need during this difficult time.
- Proven track record: We have a record for success, recovering millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients.
- Advocating for you: Our auto accident lawyers are committed to helping injured victims recover maximum compensation.
- Contingency fees for your car accident lawsuit: Our California auto accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay attorneys’ fees if we win you a monetary award. You don’t have to pay for our services out of pocket, and if you don’t win your case, you won’t owe us a dime in attorney’s fees.
Don’t face insurance companies or legal battles alone. Our experienced accident attorneys are here to ensure maximum compensation you deserve.
Call our law firm today for a free consultation or explore our website for more details on how we can help you.