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Seven Important Things to Do After a Car Accident in California

A car accident is a shocking experience that can leave you shaken regardless of the extent of your injuries. To protect your rights and ensure that you obtain the maximum compensation amount possible you need to take some steps. Here are seven important steps you need to take after a car accident.

1. DON’T LEAVE THE SCENE
   If you abandon the scene of an accident, it could quickly turn the accident into a hit and run, and you could find yourself facing felony charges. You should remain at the scene until the authorities arrive at the site for an exchange of information and for them to tell you the next procedures you should follow.
2. GET WITNESS INFORMATION
   If possible take down the name and number of any witnesses to the accident.
3. EXCHANGE CONTACT AND INSURANCE INFORMATION WITH THE PARTIES INVOLVED
   If you are involved in a car accident that resulted in injury, you are required by the law to exchange contact and insurance information with other parties and render any medical aid needed to the best of your ability. You need to seek the medical care you require as a matter of urgency.
4. SEEK PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ATTENTION
   You should check whether anyone involved in the accident has sustained serious injuries. The extent of the injuries might not be apparent at first, and it is, therefore, important to undergo a thorough examination by a qualified medical practitioner for the sake of your health and claim.
5. TAKE PHOTOS & ONLY TALK TO AN ATTORNEY REGARDING THE ACCIDENT
   Take photographs of the vehicles involved as well as the scene of the accident if you can do so. You should also avoid entering into discussions with insurance adjusters. Insurance adjusters will attempt to find reasons to pay you the least amount possible while trying to persuade you into accepting a settlement they know which is much lower than the amount you may be genuinely entitled to.
6. KEEP RECORDS OF DAMAGES AND INJURIES
   Keep all financial and medical records as proof of the extent of your injuries since they will help ensure that you get the maximum compensation possible. Photographic evidence of your losses, damages, or injuries is also crucial evidence.
7. FIND A LAWYER IMMEDIATELY
   It is vital to contact a California personal injury lawyer immediately so that they can get started with pursuing your case before the potential loss of any evidence or witness testimony. Choose for an experienced professional that has successfully represented many other car accident victims. Without the right advice and guidance, you can easily lose out on the chance to collect the compensation that you are genuinely entitled to and deserve after an accident whose cause was no fault of your own.

Car accidents can be very traumatic, but you need to stay strong. This article has outlined the steps that you need to take after an accident in California. If you are ever involved in an accident in California, please remember the seven steps discussed here.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Personal Injury Lawyer

Christopher Montes de Oca is an experienced personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles. Chris is recognized as a “Super Lawyer Rising Star,” a recognition that only 2.5 percent of lawyers receive, because of the exceptional results he has seen and his dedication to his clients. Chris services clients throughout Los Angeles, including Echo Park, Maywood and Alhambra. Call him today for a free consultation at (562) 901-4664.