Top 10 Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident in Sacramento
Knowing what to do after a car accident in Sacramento can help protect your legal rights and ensure your safety. Taking the proper steps can also help you stay organized and prepare for any challenges that might arise. The legal team at Demas Law Group has compiled the following car accident checklist to make the situation less stressful and more manageable. For personalized advice about your situation, contact us today for a free consultation with a Sacramento car accident lawyer.
#1. Stay at the Accident Scene
California law requires all drivers to remain at the scene of an accident involving injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage. Leaving the scene prematurely could result in legal consequences. Ensure your vehicle is in a safe location and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Staying at the scene allows law enforcement and emergency responders to do their jobs while giving you time to gather your thoughts and decide what to do next.
#2. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Your top priority should be the health and safety of everyone involved. Even if you feel fine, get examined by a doctor promptly. Some injuries have no initial symptoms but worsen over time. Common conditions that may not be apparent immediately after a crash include whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries.
Keep track of your medical visits, records, bills, and receipts. These can be important if you need to use them as proof for an insurance claim or show the impact of your injuries in a car accident lawsuit.
#3. Call 911
Contacting law enforcement ensures there is an official record of the accident. Police reports often serve as vital evidence if you hire a Sacramento car accident attorney or file an insurance claim. The accident report will include details about the scene, the people involved, and any visible injuries or damage.
Stick to the facts when talking to the police about the car accident. If you don’t know something, it’s okay to say you’re unsure. Avoid making comments that might sound like you are admitting fault.
#4. Gather Names and Insurance Information from the Other Driver(s)
Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the collision. Be sure to collect:
- Full names and contact information
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Vehicle license plate numbers
This information is vital for filing insurance claims or taking legal action. If the other driver refuses to cooperate or doesn’t have insurance, tell the police and your insurance company as soon as possible.
#5. Get Witness Contact Information
If anyone saw the accident, politely ask for their names and contact information. Their statements can support your side of the story and clarify what happened. Be kind and thank them for their time — a neutral perspective can make a big difference if there’s any debate over who’s at fault.
#6. Take Photos and Videos of the Crash Site
Visual evidence can be compelling. Use your smartphone to document:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- The accident scene, including skid marks, road conditions, debris, and traffic signs
- Any visible injuries sustained by you or others
Taking photos and videos can help demonstrate how the car crash happened and the damage done. Get clear pictures from different angles if you can. Do not risk your safety by stepping onto the road to get a shot.
#7. Do Not Admit Fault or Mention Injuries on Social Media
Getting financial compensation in a California car accident case hinges on proving that another party’s actions contributed to the wreck and your injuries. Protecting your claim starts by being careful about what you say to other parties, law enforcement, and insurance company representatives. Stick to the basic facts. Even seemingly harmless statements like “I’m sorry” could be used against you during negotiations or legal proceedings.
Additionally, insurance adjusters and opposing attorneys often monitor social media accounts for evidence contradicting an accident victim’s claims. Don’t discuss or post photos of your injuries online. Your posts could be misinterpreted or taken out of context.
#8. Check Your Insurance Policy for Reporting Deadlines
Most insurance companies want you to report car accidents immediately, so check your policy to avoid missing the notification deadline. Waiting too long could affect your chances of obtaining compensation for injuries or losses. Remember not to make any guesses when reporting the crash. Do not agree to make a recorded statement or sign medical release forms until you have consulted a personal injury attorney.
#9. Contact a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney
Managing the aftermath of an accident can be challenging, especially if there are disputes over liability or the extent of your injuries. A car accident lawyer can help you understand your options, provide honest advice, and build a strong case to pursue maximum compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and other losses. Experienced car accident lawyers often handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure fair settlements for their clients. Allowing an attorney to manage your case frees you up to focus on healing from your injuries.
#10. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
To make the most of your car accident claim, it’s essential to show the insurance company or court that you took care of yourself after the crash. Comply with your medical treatment and follow your doctor’s advice. Go to every appointment, fill your prescriptions, and participate in therapy as recommended — it can help your physical recovery and support your legal case. Insurance companies pay close attention to medical records when considering settlement offers. Gaps in treatment might make the adjuster question the severity of your injuries.
Contact a Sacramento Accident Lawyer Today
Taking the right steps after a Sacramento auto accident can lay the groundwork for you to maximize your compensation. If you need advice after a crash, turn to Demas Law Group. For 30+ years, our experienced car accident attorneys have successfully represented injured people in Sacramento and the neighboring communities. No case is too big or too small for us, and our legal advice comes with no upfront costs. Contact our law office today for a free case review. .
