Car accidents can be overwhelming and stressful, but knowing what steps to take can help protect your health, rights, and ability to recover compensation. The actions you take immediately after an accident can make all the difference in your personal injury lawsuit. At TORKLAW, we are here to guide you through this critical time and ensure you have the legal support you need.
1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always come first. After an accident:
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Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
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Move to a safe location. If it is safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic to avoid further accidents.
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Seek and accept medical attention. Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal damage may not be immediately apparent. Seeing a doctor creates medical documentation that will be crucial for your claim.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
A police report is one of the most valuable pieces of evidence in a personal injury lawsuit. When law enforcement arrives:
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Provide honest and factual information about what happened.
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Do not admit fault—even if you think you may be partially responsible.
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Request a copy of the police report or ask how to obtain it later.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
The more evidence you collect, the stronger your claim will be. If possible:
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Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries.
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Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers.
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Collect witness statements and get their contact information in case further testimony is needed.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require prompt accident reporting. However, these insurance companies are incentivized to reduce your claim. When reporting the accident, be sure to:
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Stick to the facts and do not speculate about fault.
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Do not agree to a quick settlement without consulting an attorney first.
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Avoid providing recorded statements until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Before Speaking to Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies aim to pay out as little as possible. A skilled attorney can:
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Handle all communications with insurers and negotiate on your behalf.
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Ensure you don’t accept a lowball settlement offer.
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Build a strong case that maximizes your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At TORKLAW, we offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we win your case.
6. Keep Track of Expenses and Follow Your Treatment Plan
To strengthen your case:
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Save all medical records, receipts, and bills related to your accident.
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Document lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working.
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Follow your doctor’s recommendations—failure to do so could give insurance companies a reason to dispute your claim.
7. Take Legal Action Before It’s Too Late
Every state has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In California, you have two years from the accident date to take legal action. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation.
Call TORKLAW Today for a Free Consultation
Knowing what to do after a car accident can protect your rights and maximize your potential settlement. At TORKLAW, we are committed to helping accident victims navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve.
📞 Call us now at (888) 845-9695 for a free, no-obligation case review.
