What to Do After a Car Accident to Protect Your Legal Rights

Los Angeles, known for its busy streets and freeways, sees many accidents every year. With constant congestion on roads like the 405, I-10, and 101, collisions are a daily reality—from fender benders to serious multi-vehicle crashes.

To make matters worse, there are the issues of drivers’ distracted driving habits, which, combined with heavy tourism and high-speed traffic, only add fuel to the fire and make the situation worse.

However, recently, while I was scrolling through reddit, I found one query that really stood out: What are my rights after a car accident?

And that’s when I realized that probably not many people are aware of this. Now, it is true that speaking to a lawyer for car accident injuries in Los Angeles can help you understand your options and get fair compensation.

But having the basic knowledge is always a good thing, right?

Hi. In today’s blog, I will explain what your rights are after a car accident. So, keep on reading till the end, and thank me later…

What Are My Rights After A Car Accident?

Once you are involved in a road accident, your primary rights include those that enable you to:

• Receive medical assistance.
• Gather evidence.
• Notify the police and insurance companies.
• Get compensation for property damage and personal injuries.

It is very important to take care of yourself first, record the scene clearly, and know that you are normally entitled to legal representation and fair dealing from insurance companies.

These are your rights in case of a road accident:

1. Right To Medical Attention:

Firstly, if possible, seek medical help right away, even if the injuries seem minor, as some issues may not become visible until later.

2. Right To Document The Accident:

Secondly, do not forget to save evidence by photographing the place, registered numbers, injuries, and obtaining witness information.

3. Right To Call The Police:

The accident must be reported to the police, especially if there are injuries or great material damage; a report from the police can be very important proof of what happened.

4. Right To Fair Treatment From Insurance Companies:

If you do not feel that insurance adjusters respect your rights, make sure you have legal advice while you exercise your right to fair treatment.

5. Right To Compensation:

You are entitled to full reimbursement of medical services, lost wages, and property damage if you are not the party responsible, plus pain and suffering. This may be carried out through the at-fault driver’s insurance company or court proceedings.

6. Right To Legal Representation:

In case you have hired a lawyer and can count on his assistance in pushing your request, he will inform you and be the one defending your vehicle accident case at court.

7. Right To Remain Silent (About Fault):

You should definitely share information that is necessary but nothing more. However, you have no obligation to admit the fault or give a detailed statement to the insurance company unless a lawyer is present.

8. “No-Fault” Benefits (Where Applicable):

Equally important, it is also true in some places that you have “no-fault” rights, notwithstanding who was at fault, which may thus include things that are immediately necessary such as medical care and lost income.

What To Do After A Car Accident?

There are several things that you need to do after you are in a car accident. Some of them are as follows:

Ensure Safety

The very first thing you have to do after an accident is to make sure everyone is okay. Check yourself and others for any injuries.

If anyone is injured, do not hesitate and call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If the vehicles are not damaged and it is safe, then move them to the side of the road so that other vehicles can pass. Switch on your hazard lights to inform other drivers.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that an approximate number of 42,795 people lost their lives due to car accidents in 2021.

This reveals that car accidents can be fatal and the importance of calling for help quickly after a crash cannot be ignored.

Report to the Authorities

If the accident has resulted in someone’s injury or if the vehicles are badly damaged, then you should report the accident to the police at all times.

The police will record an official report when they reach the spot. This report will become the basis of your insurance claim application or attorney consultation.

Besides, be sure that you have the officer’s name, badge number, and a copy or report number with you for future use.

Document the Scene

Capture the crash scene by taking photos and videos. This will include the following things:

• Damage to the vehicles (which is the main point).
• Street signs.
• Weather conditions.

Additionally, it should also have the photo of the injury, if there is any, as well as other things that may help explain what happened. Get photos from different angles if possible.

Contact witnesses, inquire about their contact details, and request their statements as they might be able to back your side of the story. Furthermore, share your information with the other driver as well, such as:

• Name and phone number
• Insurance information
• License plate and driver’s license numbers
• Car make and model

Seek Medical Attention

If you are feeling great, don’t just rely on it. Visit a doctor after a car accident. There are a few injuries which are like whiplash or internal pain that might not show symptoms initially.

Receiving medical treatment not only keeps your health in good condition but also serves as evidence in your case later on.

If you want to be sure about it, save the medical receipts and records such as doctor’s notes and test results.

Report to Your Insurance Company

Reach out to your insurance provider immediately. Tell them briefly what happened.

There is no need to divulge too much information right afterwards. And also refrain from making statements which could be interpreted as you being at fault.

Additionally, try to concentrate only on the facts and let them do the rest of the inquiry.

Speak with a Car Accident Lawyer

Finally, a car accident lawyer can be your legal representative who explains your rights and guides your case in a proper way.

They can provide you with the maximum assistance in case of dealing with:

• Insurance companies.
• Evidence collection.
• Fighting for compensation for your injuries, car damage, loss of income, etc.

If you live in Los Angeles, a lawyer who practices in Los Angeles and is experienced dealing with cases similar to yours will definitely help you out. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible can be a deciding factor in your case outcome.

Dont Wait! Hire A Lawyer Now!

In conclusion, an unfortunate car accident can cause a chaos in your day but being aware of the steps you need to take can have a positive impact on your health as well as your legal rights.

Follow safety, report the accident, document the scene, and get the medical and legal help you need.

Someone got into a crash in LA, and if they are injured, they shouldn’t hesitate; they need to contact a car accident lawyer who will be there with them at each stage of the process.

Read Also:

• What Compensation Can You Claim After a Truck Accident?
• 7 Steps to Take Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
• A Comprehensive Guide To Personal Injury Lawsuits