Do you know what to do in a California car accident? You just had a car crash and you’re not sure what to do next. Do you call the police? Call your insurance company? What about medical attention for injuries? It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to what you should do after an accident. That’s why we’ve created this blog post – the ultimate guide on how to handle a California car crash! We’ll discuss everything from who needs to be called and what they need calling, how much insurance coverage you have, and whether or not you need legal representation (hint: yes!)
Accidents happen, so it’s a good idea to know ahead of time what you are required to do if you are involved in a crash in California.
Do you know what to do in a California car accident?
Although you do your best to drive responsibly and defensively, it’s still wise to know what to do just in case you end up in a collision. Crashes can be terrifying. If you are reading this, chances are you have either been in a crash or know someone who has. We want to help prepare you for what may happen if that happens to you. There can be many emotions going through your head when this happens, but the most important thing is to remain calm and keep yourself and others safe.
First and foremost, you must stop. And if anyone is hurt, you are required to get help. In addition, you must give your name, address, and vehicle registration number to others involved in the accident.
California has close to 250,000 vehicle crashes every year and the most common cause is careless driving, which means the driver was not driving taking into account curves, the width of the road, traffic, corners, the grade of the road (steepness), and other conditions that affect driving. So you have to take the California car accident issue seriously.
Don’t Leave the Scene
First of all, the most logical thing to do is not leaving the scene. Stay calm, and call 911. If you leave the scene of an accident that involves injuries without providing your information, your license may be revoked.
If you’re able to get out of the vehicle safely, check on all passengers in your car before trying to move it from its current location. Make sure that everyone is physically okay before moving them or taking any further action.
If someone appears injured but doesn’t need medical attention, contact their emergency contacts immediately and tell them the situation without making them panic.
Report the Traffic Accident
Any car accident that involves injuries or property damage over $500 must be reported. In these situations, you should call the local police department, sheriff, or the California Highway Patrol. If an officer investigates the accident they will file a report.
Don’t Block Traffic
If traffic is being blocked by your car you must move it. If you can’t move it yourself, you must get help or call a tow truck. Your vehicle should never block traffic in any situation.
Ticket and Traffic Court
Many accidents are caused by a driver that broke traffic laws. If that is the case, then an investigating officer will file charges against the offending driver. If you are charged in a traffic accident, you will have the opportunity to explain what happened in court. Then the traffic court will decide what the penalty is.
Auto Accidents with an Unattended Vehicle
If you hit a car, truck, or another vehicle that is parked with no one in it, you must inform the owner. Leave a note If you hit a car, truck, or another parked vehicle with no one in it, you must inform the owner. Leave a note with your name, address, and license plate and report the accident to local police, sheriff, or California highway patrol.