What to Do After a Car Accident
Car accidents happen fast. One minute you’re driving normally — the next, you’re shaken up, injured, your car is damaged, and you’re on the phone with insurance companies. If you’ve been in a crash anywhere in California, Nevada, or Arizona, here’s exactly what to do to protect yourself, plus how a personal injury attorney can help you recover fair compensation.
First Things First: What to Do at the Scene of the Accident
If you’re reading this shortly after your accident, take a breath. Your safety and documentation are the priorities.
1. Call 911
Even if the crash seems minor, call the police. An official police report is often critical for insurance claims and legal cases. If there are injuries, ask for medical assistance right away.
2. Move to Safety
If your vehicle is drivable and it's safe, pull over to the shoulder or a nearby lot. Turn on your hazard lights to stay visible.
3. Exchange Information
Swap names, phone numbers, driver’s licenses, and insurance policy info with the other driver(s).
4. Take Detailed Photos
Your smartphone is your best friend. Photograph:
Damage to all vehicles
License plates
Road conditions
Traffic signs or lights
Injuries, if safe to do so
5. Get Witness Information
If anyone saw the crash, ask them to stay until police arrive, or at least get their contact info.
6. Don’t Skip the Police Report
This official record often makes or breaks insurance and legal claims. Even if the other driver tries to talk you out of it, insist on a report.
7. Seek Medical Care ASAP
Many injuries (like whiplash or concussions) don’t show symptoms immediately. Getting checked also creates medical records vital for your injury claim.
Why You Should See a Doctor After a Car Accident
Even if you feel “fine,” get examined. Insurance companies may use delays in treatment to claim you weren’t really injured. Immediate care:
Document your injuries for your case
Helps prevent untreated issues from worsening
Strengthens your insurance or legal claim
Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
Not every accident needs a lawyer — but if you’re injured, you should consider speaking to a personal injury attorney, especially if:
You’re in pain or can’t work
The other driver’s insurance denies fault or delays payment
You’re getting a low settlement offer
You’re unsure who’s at fault
You need help with complicated insurance claims
A car accident attorney can help you:
Calculate fair compensation (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)
Handle insurance adjusters who try to underpay you
File lawsuits if needed
Meet state deadlines for filing
How Insurance Companies Handle Your Personal Injury Claim
Insurance adjusters may sound friendly — but their goal is saving their company money.
They may downplay your injuries.
They might pressure you to settle quickly and cheaply.
They can use anything you say against you.
Pro tip: You’re not required to give them a recorded statement without legal advice.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will speak to insurance companies on your behalf and fight for the payout you deserve.
Car Accident Laws Vary by State — Why Local Attorneys Matter
Every state has its own personal injury laws, deadlines (statutes of limitations), and rules about fault.
California
2 years to file most injury claims
Pure comparative fault — you can recover even if 99% at fault, but your share reduces award
Nevada
2-year deadline
Modified comparative negligence — you can recover only if you’re 50% or less at fault
Arizona
2-year deadline
Pure comparative fault — like California, award is reduced by your percentage of fault
A local injury attorney knows these state-specific rules and can help you avoid costly mistakes that hurt your claim.
How Justice Pipeline Makes It Easy to Find the Right Car Accident Attorney
Dealing with all this alone is overwhelming. That’s why Justice Pipeline exists. We connect you quickly with experienced, local personal injury attorneys who know your state’s laws.
Free consultation — learn your options risk-free
No upfront fees — no-win-no-fee lawyers only get paid if you do
Fast connections in California, Nevada, and Arizona
Trusted, vetted accident lawyers
Cities we serve include:
California: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento
Nevada: Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno
Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa
Not sure if your area is covered? Just ask when you call.
Ready to Talk? Get Your Free Consultation
If you’re not sure what to do next, don’t worry. Most people aren’t. That’s what we’re here for.
Call 888-575-7533 today to speak with someone who will listen, explain your options, and help you get connected with a local accident attorney who can fight for you.
Free. Private. No obligation.
Protect your rights. Focus on healing.
