What To Do After a Serious Car Accident in California: Legal Steps to Protect Your Rights

Every year, thousands of Californians are injured in serious car accidents that leave them facing physical pain, financial hardship, and uncertainty about their future. The actions you take in the hours and days after a crash can make a critical difference in your ability to recover compensation for your injuries, property damage, and suffering.

At BD&J, PC, Attorney Director of Pre-Litigation Michael Madadi has spent his career guiding accident victims through these challenging moments. With a reputation for securing substantial settlements and verdicts, Madadi’s expertise ensures that clients understand their options and receive the support they need from day one.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first priority after any accident is safety. Move your vehicle to a secure location if possible, turn on your hazard lights, and check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Many serious injuries—such as whiplash, traumatic brain injury, or internal bleeding—may not be apparent right away.

Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates critical documentation that will support your legal claim later.

Step 2: Call Law Enforcement and Report the Accident

Under California law, you are required to report an accident involving injury or significant property damage. Calling 911 will ensure that law enforcement arrives to document the scene and file an official accident report. This report will be a vital piece of evidence for your insurance and legal case.

When speaking to officers, stick to the facts. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the accident; simply provide clear, honest answers to their questions.

Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able, collect as much evidence as possible before leaving the accident scene:

• Take photos of all vehicles, license plates, visible injuries, and the surrounding area (including skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions).
• Exchange contact, insurance, and driver’s license information with all involved parties.
• Collect names and contact details for any witnesses.
• Make notes about what happened while your memory is fresh.

This information can be invaluable when reconstructing the accident and proving liability later.

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

California is an “at-fault” state, so you’ll need to notify your insurer about the accident, even if you were not at fault. Provide the basic facts, but avoid recorded statements or signing anything until you’ve consulted an attorney. Insurance companies are often quick to minimize or deny claims, and anything you say can be used against you.

Step 5: Consult a Personal Injury Attorney—Before Speaking to the Other Side’s Insurance

Before talking to the at-fault driver’s insurance or accepting any settlement offer, consult an experienced personal injury attorney. Michael Madadi and the BD&J, PC team offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and next steps. They know how to:

• Investigate liability and gather further evidence
• Coordinate with medical experts to document your injuries
• Calculate the true value of your claim—including lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs
• Negotiate aggressively with insurers
• File lawsuits when necessary to maximize your compensation

Step 6: Document Your Recovery and Losses

Keep a detailed record of your medical appointments, treatments, prescriptions, and any related out-of-pocket costs. Maintain a journal documenting your pain levels, limitations, and how the accident has affected your daily life. Save all receipts, pay stubs, and correspondence related to the crash.

This thorough documentation is vital when it comes time to prove damages.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Serious Accident

• Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene
• Failing to seek medical attention right away
• Providing recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer
• Settling quickly for a low offer without understanding the true value of your claim
• Posting about your accident or injuries on social media

Why Choose Michael Madadi and BD&J, PC?

Michael Madadi’s legal career spans work in consumer protection, antitrust, and high-stakes personal injury litigation. His leadership at BD&J, PC’s pre-litigation department has resulted in thousands of clients securing meaningful compensation. The firm’s reputation for ethical standards and relentless advocacy is recognized by peers and media alike.

When you choose BD&J, you’re not just a case number—you’re part of a team that puts your recovery first.

Ready to Protect Your Rights?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious car accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Michael Madadi at BD&J, PC for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Take the right steps from the very beginning, and let an experienced attorney fight for the full compensation you deserve.