WHAT TO DO AFTER A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN CALIFORNIA

Accidents can happen to anyone and in any type of motor vehicle. Knowing the right steps to take can mean the difference between protecting your rights and losing valuable compensation. If you’re involved in a car accident in California, follow this essential guide to safeguard your health, legal rights, and maximize your financial recovery. At Antonyan Miranda, we zealously represent accident victims like you to ensure maximum compensation. Read on for the best tips and advice.

Your health and safety should always come first.

Immediately after an accident:

• Check for Injuries: And dial 911 to documents injuries, liability.

• Stay at the Scene: Leaving an accident scene is illegal in California and can lead to severe consequences.

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent. Medical care not only prioritizes your health, but it also creates a record tying your injuries directly to the accident, which is critical for your claim.

Police Report

Reporting the accident is critical.

• A police report strengthens insurance claims and legal cases.

• Helps address hit-and-runs or uninsured drivers.

• Police statements can corroborate your version of events.

Always request a copy of the police report from your local Police Department —it’s a crucial piece of evidence for your claim. We can help you obtain a copy once we have your written authorization.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Never apologize or admit fault at the scene. Determining liability is a complex legal process that should involve your attorney. Instead, stick to factual descriptions when speaking with law enforcement or other parties, and avoid discussions about blame until you’ve consulted with a personal injury lawyer.

Exchange Information

Be sure to collect:

• Full names, phone numbers, and addresses.

• Driver’s license numbers.

• Insurance information: company name, policy number, and contact details.

• Vehicle details: year, make, model, color, and license plate number.

Gather contact information from witnesses or passengers—they may provide key testimony if your case goes to court.

Document the Scene

Use your smartphone to capture:

• Involved Parties: license plates, driver license, insurance information.

• Injuries: Document any visible injuries to yourself or others.

• Vehicle Damage: Take photos from multiple angles.

• Road Conditions: Skid marks, debris, weather, and lighting.

• Traffic Signals: Capture nearby signs and signals for context.

Contact Antonyan Miranda Immediately

When it comes to personal injury cases, timing is everything. Don’t wait for the insurance company to take control of the narrative. Avoid mediocrity® and contact Antonyan Miranda. We provide free consultations and case analysis. We zealously represent our clients to obtain maximum compensation. Our clients praise our work, and our reputation speaks for itself.

FAQs: Protecting Your Rights After an Accident

Should I Speak to the Insurance Company?

Never provide a statement to the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster without consulting your attorney. They are trained to minimize payouts. We will do the talking for you.

What If the Other Driver is Uninsured?

You may still recover damages through your own uninsured motorist coverage or by pursuing legal action.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, acting sooner can strengthen your case.

What Does it Cost to Hire You?

Nothing. We represent motor vehicle accidents on a contingency basis, meaning that we only get paid if you get paid.

Protect Yourself at All Times®

Don’t let the aftermath of an accident overwhelm you. At Antonyan Miranda, we relentlessly pursue justice for our clients. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies to filing lawsuits, we handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on recovery.

Act now. Contact us for a free consultation. Your future deserves nothing less than our best.