A car accident can change your life in seconds. On Glendale’s busy streets and freeways, collisions are all too common—from fender-benders on Brand Boulevard to major crashes on the 134. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident is essential for protecting your health, rights, and finances.
As a dedicated car accident attorney in Glendale CA, The Law Offices of Mark Murad has seen firsthand how the chaos after a crash can lead to costly mistakes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you avoid those errors and safeguard your claim.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
Safety comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if you think injuries are minor, call 911. Internal injuries or concussions can have delayed symptoms.
Having paramedics assess the scene ensures everyone gets proper care. Plus, the police will create an official accident report—a critical piece of evidence for insurance and any legal claim.
Move to a Safe Location if Possible
If your car is drivable and it’s safe, move it to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic or risking another collision. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
If you can’t move the vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives. Getting out on a busy Glendale road can put you in danger of being struck by oncoming traffic.
Document the Scene Carefully
Preserving evidence is crucial. Before vehicles are moved or debris is cleared, take detailed photos of:
- Vehicle damage from multiple angles
- Road conditions, skid marks, and debris
- Nearby traffic signs or signals
- Visible injuries
Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver, and collect names and numbers from witnesses.
Avoid Admitting Fault
In the stress of a collision, many people instinctively apologize—even when they didn’t cause the crash. Don’t admit fault at the scene. Even polite phrases can be twisted later by insurers.
Stick to the facts when speaking to police or the other driver. Fault should be determined by the investigation—and your car accident attorney in Glendale CA.
Get Prompt Medical Care
Don’t assume you’re fine just because you feel okay immediately after the accident. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding might not show symptoms for hours or days.
Seeing a doctor right away protects your health and creates a medical record that directly ties your injuries to the crash. Insurance companies will scrutinize delays in treatment to argue your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the collision.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
California law requires prompt reporting of accidents to your insurance carrier. Provide clear, accurate details, but avoid making guesses about fault or describing injuries in detail.
Be careful with the other driver’s insurance company—they’ll often contact you quickly for a recorded statement or a low settlement offer. It’s best not to speak with them before getting legal advice.
Talk to a Car Accident Attorney in Glendale CA
Recovering from an accident can mean medical bills, missed work, and dealing with uncooperative insurance companies. A car accident attorney in Glendale CA knows local roads, courts, and insurers—and can help you avoid mistakes that cost you money.
At The Law Offices of Mark Murad, we’re committed to fighting for your rights and securing fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call (626) 388-1521 today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the aftermath of your accident with confidence.
By following these steps, you’ll protect your health and strengthen any claim you need to make. Don’t leave your future to chance—know what to do after an accident and get the expert legal help you deserve.