What to Do After a Car Accident in California: A Step-by-Step Guide

What you do in the first hour after a crash can decide whether your claim succeeds. Adrenaline makes it easy to forget the basics, so here is a clear, ordered checklist for California drivers.

1. Get to safety and call 911

Move out of traffic if you can, turn on hazards, and call 911 for any injury. A police report creates an official, dated record that insurers take seriously.

2. Exchange information — but don’t admit fault

Get the other driver’s name, license, insurance, plate, and vehicle details. Be polite, but do not say “I’m sorry” or speculate about fault — those statements get used against you later.

3. Document everything

• Photos of all vehicles, damage, the road, skid marks, signals, and your injuries
• Names and numbers of any witnesses
• The responding officer’s name and report number

4. See a doctor — even if you feel fine

Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries often show up hours or days later. Getting checked protects your health and ties your injuries to the crash. A treatment gap is the #1 thing insurers use to deny claims.

5. Report to the DMV when required

California requires an SR-1 form filed with the DMV within 10 days if anyone was injured or killed, or property damage exceeds $1,000. This is separate from telling police or your insurer.

6. Notify your insurer — carefully

Report the crash promptly, but stick to the facts. You are not required to give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement, and doing so before advice can hurt you.

7. Keep records and track your losses

Save medical bills, repair estimates, and a note of missed work and how the injury affects daily life. This is the evidence your claim is built on.

8. Talk to an attorney before you accept anything

Early settlement offers are usually low and final. A free case review tells you whether the offer is fair before you sign away your rights.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to call the police for a minor accident?

If there are injuries or significant damage, yes. Even for minor crashes, a report helps if injuries surface later.

What if I feel fine after the accident?

Still get examined. Many serious injuries have delayed symptoms, and a same-day record strengthens any future claim.

Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?

Usually not without advice — first offers are typically far below what a claim is worth. A free review costs nothing.

Injured in a Ventura County crash? See our Santa Paula truck accident lawyer page.

Krash Lawyers is an attorney marketing & referral service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This article is general information only. We connect accident victims with independent, licensed California attorneys. Deadlines and case values vary by situation — consult a licensed attorney about your specific case.