Car accidents are a common occurrence in San Francisco, and they can happen to anyone at any time. When you find yourself in an accident, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, it’s crucial to stay calm and take appropriate steps immediately after the collision.

Knowing what to do after a car accident can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the necessary medical treatment for any injuries sustained.

In this article, we will discuss the essential things you should do following a car accident in San Francisco, including why it’s important to speak with a bay area personal injury attorney like GJEL Accident Attorneys right after you have received medical attention for your serious injury.

Here are the things you should do immediately following an accident

  1. Start by Calling 911. The first and most important step after a car accident in San Francisco is to call 911. This is especially true if there are any injuries involved, as calling for emergency medical assistance can save lives.

    The police will also come to the scene of the accident and file a report, which can be crucial evidence if you decide to pursue legal action. The police report will contain vital information about the accident, including the date, time, location, and names of all parties involved. It will also include witness statements and any other relevant details that may be helpful in determining fault or liability.
  2. Seek Medical Attention Right Away. Even if you feel fine after a car accident, it’s essential to seek medical treatment right away. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, and delaying medical treatment can worsen your condition. It’s also helpful to have a medical record that documents any injuries you sustained in the accident.

    When seeking medical treatment, make sure to provide accurate information about the accident and any symptoms you may be experiencing. This information can help doctors determine the best course of treatment for your injuries.
  3. Collect Evidence from the scene including photographs, videos and witness statements.
  4. Never admit fault. One crucial thing you should never do after a car accident is admitting fault. Even if you think you were at fault, it’s best to refrain from making any statements until you speak with an attorney. Admitting fault can harm your chances of receiving compensation for damages, and it can be used against you in court.
  5. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand the impact a car accident can have on your life. That’s why we are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve. If you have been involved in a car accident in San Francisco, here are some reasons why you should contact us right away. Our SF car accident attorneys are standing by ready to help you.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of what to do after a car accident in California, here is more extensive list as well.

A complete checklist of what to do after a San Francisco car crash

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
  2. Call the Police and File a Report
  3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)
  4. Document the Accident Scene
  5. Notify Your Insurance Company
  6. Contact a Car Accident Attorney
  7. Keep Records of All Expenses Related to the Accident
  8. Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Adjusters
  9. Do Not Sign Anything Without Consulting an Attorney
  10. Be Careful About What You Post on Social Media
  11. Attend All Medical Appointments
  12. Follow Up with Your Insurance Company Regularly
  13. Consider Seeking Counseling or Therapy
  14. Stay Organized and Keep a Journal
  15. Conclusion
  16. Seek Medical Attention Immediately The first and most important step after a car accident is to seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not appear until days or even weeks after the accident. It’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible to ensure that you receive the appropriate medical treatment and to document your injuries.
  17. Call the Police and File a Report If the accident results in injury, death, or property damage of over $1,000, California law requires you to call the police and file a report. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s still a good idea to call the police and file a report. The police report will provide important details about the accident, including the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of the drivers and witnesses.
  18. Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s) Exchange information with the other driver(s), including their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information. Be sure to take note of the make and model of the other driver’s car, as well as their license plate number.
  19. Document the Accident Scene Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to the vehicles, skid marks on the road, and any other relevant details. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as well.
  20. Notify Your Insurance Company Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Provide them with all the information you have collected, including the police report, the other driver’s information, and any photos you have taken. Keep in mind that insurance companies are primarily concerned with minimizing their payouts, so it’s important to be careful about what you say to them.
  21. Contact a Car Accident Attorney Consider contacting a car accident attorney in San Francisco, especially if you have been injured in the accident. An attorney can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. They can also help you navigate the complex process of dealing with insurance companies and filing a claim.
  22. Keep Records of All Expenses Related to the Accident Keep records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, car repairs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses. These records will be important when you file a claim with your insurance company or when you seek compensation from the other driver’s insurance company.
  23. Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Adjusters Be careful about what you say to insurance adjusters