The steps you take in the first 24–72 hours after a crash directly determine how much compensation you recover. Follow this exact checklist — then call us immediately.
Even if injuries seem minor, call 911. A police report creates an official record that is critical evidence for your insurance claim and any legal action. Without a police report, the other driver can dispute fault.
If your car is drivable, move it out of traffic to prevent secondary collisions. California law requires you to stay at the scene until police arrive. Leaving is a hit-and-run — a criminal offense.
Go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor — even if you feel fine. Whiplash, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and internal injuries often have delayed symptoms. Gaps in medical care give insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.
Use your phone camera to photograph: all vehicles, damage close-ups, license plates, driver's license, insurance cards, skid marks, road signs, traffic lights, weather conditions, and your injuries. Get witness names and phone numbers.
Collect: name, address, license number, insurance company, policy number, vehicle registration. Do not say "I'm sorry" or "I wasn't paying attention." Fault is a legal determination — your words at the scene can cost you thousands.
Insurance adjusters call quickly and sound friendly. Their job is to minimize your claim. Do not give a recorded statement without a lawyer present. You are not legally required to do so.
Studies show injury victims with attorney representation recover 3–5× more than those who negotiate alone. We handle everything — evidence preservation, medical coordination, insurance negotiation — for free until we win.
| Law / Rule | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Fault State | California is an at-fault state — the driver who caused the crash pays |
| Pure Comparative Negligence | You can recover even if you were partially at fault (reduced by your % of fault) |
| Statute of Limitations | 2 years from accident date for personal injury; 3 years for property damage |
| Minimum Insurance | CA requires 15/30/5 — often far below serious injury costs |
| Government Claims | Must file within 6 months if a government vehicle or road defect was involved |
Don't face the insurance company alone. We answer 24/7 and you pay nothing unless we win.
📞 Call 1-888-232-2898 FreeGonzales Law Offices handles car accident cases in Fontana, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Corona, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Temecula, and all 64 cities across Southern California.