California • Practical guides

What to Do After a Car Accident in California

By Injury Lawyer Scout · Updated October 3, 2026

After a collision, several people may ask for your attention at once. Start with immediate safety, then organize the information you will need for insurance and any legal consultation.

Start with safety and care

If there is an emergency, call 911. Follow emergency responders’ instructions and seek appropriate medical care. Gathering photos should never put you or another person in danger.

Keep a useful accident record

When it is safe, exchange driver, vehicle, and insurance details. Preserve photos of the scene and damage, witness contact information, and any police report number. Notify your insurer promptly and ask what documents it needs. The California Department of Insurance offers an accident claims guide explaining what to expect.

For your own organization, make one folder with four sections: the incident, medical paperwork, insurance correspondence, and expenses. Label files clearly. A filename such as “vehicle-photo-front” is easier to find later than a string of numbers.

Check the separate DMV reporting requirement

California DMV says an SR-1 must be submitted within 10 days when an accident causes injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. This is separate from reporting to police or an insurer. Review the DMV’s SR-1 instructions and keep a copy of your submission.

Make the next conversation easier

Before an insurance call, write down your claim number, the questions you need answered, and the documents requested. Afterward, note whom you spoke with and the next step. If you do not know an answer, say so instead of guessing.

If you want legal advice, use our lawyer comparison questions to prepare. A blog cannot evaluate your particular claim or determine your deadlines.

Sources are linked alongside the relevant guidance. This article has not been reviewed by an attorney.