Injured in a California Car Accident: 7 Critical Steps to Protect Your Rights

By Timothy Hobbs

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Car Accidents

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Last Modified on Dec 06, 2025

Collisions along Interstate 5, U.S. Route 101, and Interstate 80 are unfortunate realities of life in a state where long commutes are commonplace. If you were injured in a California car accident, your top priority should be to focus on your safety and the safety of those around you. The steps you take following a collision can shape the outcome of your injury claim.

These are the seven critical steps you should take to protect your rights following a collision.

1. Protect Your Safety
   Following a car collision, it is common to experience shock that can delay the onset of injury symptoms. Call 911 and tell the dispatcher where the collision occurred and how many people may be injured. This can help them know how many ambulances and police to send to the scene of the accident.

   If your vehicle is operational, move it away from traffic and wait for EMS to arrive at the scene. In 2024, California recorded 164,123 reported car crashes that resulted in 3,807 traffic fatalities. Prompt action can protect the safety of everyone involved.

2. Exchange Information and Document the Scene
   When you can safely do so, take photos of the site of the collision. Note tire marks on the road and try to get photos and videos of the collision from various angles. Collect contact and insurance information from the parties involved in the collision. Answer any questions by the police so they have accurate information for their final police report.
3. Do Not Discuss the Collision With Other Drivers or Insurance Carriers
   Anything you say to the at-fault driver or their insurer could be used against you or even misrepresented later. Do not discuss fault with the negligent driver. If their insurance carrier contacts you, refer them to your attorney. Be careful about discussing details of the case with your own insurance carrier. Insurance companies are in the business of making money.
4. Seek Prompt Medical Attention
   Seeking medical attention can prevent medical complications and create a paper trail that can support your injury claim. Injuries can be treated at nearby Pomona Valley Hospital Center, located at 1789 North Garey Avenue, or Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare at 255 E Bonita Avenue in Pomona.
5. Write Down Information Tied to the Collision and Your Injury
   As soon as you can, take notes describing your injury and the moments leading up to the collision. These can be used later to establish fault and document your injuries. Without clear notes, you may forget certain details about the collision and the injury that could be useful as you build a strong injury claim focused on maximizing compensation.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
   You must notify your insurance company about the collision so they can begin the claims process. Provide basic facts about when and where the accident occurred, identify the vehicles involved, and share the police report number if one was issued. Avoid speculating about fault or minimizing your injuries when speaking with an adjuster.
7. Contact an Experienced Injury Lawyer
   Whether your case involves a drunk driver or someone’s negligence on the road, your claim can benefit from legal representation. It is estimated that around 18 million Americans drive while impaired each year. An attorney can reduce the stress you are experiencing by managing your claim so you can focus on recovering.

Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a car collision, your top priority should be to hire a car accident lawyer who understands California law and how it could affect the outcome of your case. Legal representation plays a crucial role in shaping the results of settlement negotiations or litigation in court. A California car accident attorney is focused on preserving your rights and interests.

FAQs

Who Is at Fault for a Collision in California?

The party that caused the collision through negligence or misconduct is at fault. Proving liability requires an examination of the evidence to determine whether traffic laws were violated by any of the parties involved in a crash. Photos, witness statements, police reports, and other forms of evidence can be used to build a strong claim that holds the at-fault party accountable for the harm they cause.

What Should You Not Say When Making an Insurance Claim?

When making an insurance claim, do not discuss or say anything that could potentially harm your claim. Guessing at whether you contributed to the collision or making generalizations without understanding all the facts of the case can weaken your claim. California’s injury laws allow multiple parties to share liability. To protect your claim, allow your attorney to handle negotiations with any insurance company.

Can Multiple Parties Share Liability for a Car Collision?

Yes, multiple parties can share liability for a car collision. California’s approach to establishing liability allows injured parties to seek compensation, even in cases where they are more than 50% at fault. This system is favorable to plaintiffs and acknowledges the complexities of injury claims that can involve multiple parties contributing to a collision.

How Much of a $30K Settlement Would I Get?

The percentage of a $30,000 settlement that you receive depends on two main factors. One is the contingency fee charged by your attorney. The other is the degree of liability that you share or do not share in the case. If you are found to be 20% at fault, for example, you could be eligible for a $24,000 settlement. Your attorney would take their percentage from that final amount, then any outstanding liabilities would be paid before you receive the remainder of the settlement.

Hurt in a Car Collision? Call Hobbs Law Group Today

When injured drivers and passengers in California are seeking compensation and accountability, they trust Hobbs Law Group to deliver meaningful results. When you work with our award-winning litigators, you gain the support of attorneys who focus on results.

Since 2011, we have represented clients in personal injury and wrongful death claims. Trust our dedicated personal injury lawyer to provide you with the results-driven representation your case deserves. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.