If you were just in a car accident in Los Angeles, the first few hours matter more than most people realize. What you do — and what you don't do — at the scene and in the days that follow can directly affect your ability to protect your health, your finances, and any potential legal claim.
This guide walks you through the practical steps to take right now, in plain language. It covers your immediate priorities at the scene, what California law generally requires, and when it makes sense to speak with a personal injury attorney. FindCounselNow is not a law firm and does not give legal advice — but we can connect you with a licensed Los Angeles attorney who can review your specific situation for free.
What Should You Do First at the Scene of a Car Accident in Los Angeles?
Check for injuries and move to safety before anything else. If anyone is hurt — including yourself — call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor at first, emergency responders can document what happened and get medical attention started right away.
Once you are in a safe location, do these 4 things before leaving the scene:
- Call 911 and request police and medical help if needed.
- Turn on your hazard lights and, if possible, move vehicles out of active traffic.
- Stay at the scene — leaving can create serious legal problems under California law.
- Avoid discussing fault with the other driver or bystanders.
What Information Should You Collect After a Car Accident?
Gather as much documentation as you can while you are still at the scene. This information often becomes critical if an insurance claim or legal dispute follows. An attorney can explain how each piece of evidence may apply to your case.
Try to collect the following from every driver involved:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver's license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and year
Also get contact information from any witnesses. Take photos of all vehicles, the surrounding area, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. If a police report is filed, ask the responding officer how to obtain a copy later.
Should You See a Doctor Even If You Feel Fine?
Yes — getting a medical evaluation promptly is one of the most important steps after any accident in Los Angeles. Some injuries, including whiplash, soft-tissue damage, and even concussions, may not produce obvious symptoms for hours or days. A medical record created shortly after the accident also documents the connection between the crash and your injuries.
If you were taken from the scene by ambulance, follow all discharge instructions and schedule any recommended follow-up care. If you were not transported, consider visiting an urgent care clinic or your primary care physician within 24 to 48 hours.
What Are You Required to Report Under California Law?
California law generally requires drivers to report accidents that involve injury, death, or significant property damage to the DMV within 10 days. This is separate from any police report. Your insurance policy may also have its own reporting deadlines, so review your documents or call your insurer promptly. An attorney can confirm the specific reporting obligations that apply to your situation.
In Los Angeles, accidents that result in injury or death must also typically be reported to local law enforcement or the California Highway Patrol at the scene. If officers responded, that requirement is usually met automatically.
How Should You Handle the Insurance Company After a Car Accident?
Notify your own insurer about the accident, but be cautious about what you say to the other driver's insurance company. Adjusters from the opposing insurer work to minimize what their company pays out. In many cases, statements you make early — even casual ones — can be used to reduce or deny a claim.
A few general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly.
- Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer without speaking to an attorney first.
- Do not accept a settlement offer before understanding the full extent of your injuries and costs.
- Get any settlement offers in writing before responding.
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in California?
In California, the general statute of limitations for a personal injury claim arising from a car accident is 2 years from the date of the injury. If a government entity — such as a city or county — is involved, the deadline can be significantly shorter, sometimes as little as 6 months to file an initial claim. These time limits are strict, and missing them can bar you from recovering anything at all.
Waiting too long also makes it harder to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and build a strong case. Speaking with a personal injury attorney in Los Angeles sooner rather than later gives you the best chance to understand your options.
When Should You Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Los Angeles?
You should consider speaking with a personal injury attorney any time you have been injured, the accident involved significant property damage, or liability is disputed. An attorney can review the facts of your case, explain how California law generally applies, and help you understand what options may be available to you.
You do not need to be certain that someone else was at fault to benefit from a consultation. Many personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles offer free initial reviews, so there is little risk in asking questions early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Los Angeles
These are some of the most common questions people ask after a car accident in Los Angeles, CA.
What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
You may still have options. California requires insurers to offer uninsured motorist coverage, and your own policy may cover some losses. An attorney can review your policy and explain what coverage may apply to your situation.
Can I still recover if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Possibly, yes. California follows a pure comparative fault rule, which generally means your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault — but not necessarily eliminated. An attorney can confirm how this applies to your case.
Do I need a police report to make a claim?
A police report is not always legally required to file an insurance claim, but it can be a valuable piece of evidence. Without one, it may be harder to establish what happened. An attorney can advise you on how to proceed without one if necessary.
What if my injuries showed up days after the crash?
Delayed-onset injuries are common after car accidents, and in many cases you can still pursue a claim. See a doctor as soon as symptoms appear and document everything. An attorney can help you understand how timing may affect your claim.
If you were injured in a car accident in Los Angeles and want to understand your options, FindCounselNow can connect you with an independent, licensed local personal injury attorney for a free case review — at no obligation to you.