What To Do Immediately After A Los Angeles Car Accident: The Complete Guide That Can Save Your Case

It just hit you. Your heart is beating fast. Your hands are shaking. Maybe you’re confused, scared, or in shock. What you do in the next 30 minutes could be the difference between receiving the full compensation you deserve or losing thousands – even hundreds of thousands – of dollars.

Mira, yo soy Jerry Jacobson, y en mis 32 años como abogado de accidentes de auto en Los Angeles, he visto a demasiadas personas buenas perder casos fuertes simplemente porque no supieron que hacer en esos momentos criticos despues del choque.

In 2024, Los Angeles recorded 187,121 auto accidents – that’s more than 500 crashes EVERY DAY. And in each one, insurance companies are immediately working to pay out as little as possible. While you’re in shock processing what happened, they’re already looking for ways to blame you, minimize your injuries, and reduce your compensation.

This guide will give you the exact steps you need to follow – in order – to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. I have used these same steps to recover over $500 million dollars for Hispanic families in Los Angeles.

Y escuchame bien: Si acabas de tener un accidente AHORA MISMO, llamame inmediatamente al (800)529-7910 antes de hacer cualquier otra cosa. Te guio por telefono sobre exactamente que hacer en tu situacion especifica.

Why The First 30 Minutes Are So Critical

Let me explain something that insurance companies don’t want you to know: The first 30 minutes after an accident often determine 80% of the final outcome of your case.

Why? Because in those 30 minutes:

The physical evidence is there – skid marks, vehicle fragments, road conditions. Witnesses are still there and their memories are fresh. Initial statements are made (and recorded). Photos and videos are taken (or not taken). Official reports are created. First impressions are formed.

According to data from the California Department of Insurance, cases where the victim followed the correct steps immediately after the accident receive on average 340% more compensation than cases where the person did not know what to do.

340%. That is not a typo. It’s the difference between receiving $50,000 and receiving $220,000 in the same type of case.

So let’s go over exactly what to do, step by step.

Step 1: STOP Immediately and Turn On Your Emergency Lights

This seems obvious, but in the panic of the moment, some people make the fatal mistake of leaving the scene.

NEVER, EVER leave the scene of an accident, even if the crash seems minor.

In California, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense – a “hit and run.” Depending on the circumstances, it can be a misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail) or a felony (up to 4 years in prison). And if someone was injured and you left the scene, the consequences are even more severe.

But beyond the criminal consequences, leaving the scene automatically destroys any chance of receiving compensation for your own injuries.

So first things first: Stop immediately. Turn on your hazard lights. If your vehicle is blocking traffic and can be moved safely, move it to the side of the road. But if there are serious injuries or the vehicle cannot be moved, leave it where it is.

Your safety comes first. If you are in the middle of a congested freeway such as freeway 10 or 101, get out of the vehicle only if it is safe to do so. Sometimes it is safer to stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on until help arrives.

Step 2: Check for Injuries – Yours and Others’

Before thinking about vehicles, photos, or insurance, check to see if anyone is hurt.

First, do a quick check – are you bleeding? Does anything hurt intensely? Can you move all your limbs? Remember that adrenaline can mask pain – serious injuries sometimes don’t hurt right away.

Then, if it is safe, check the passengers in your vehicle and ask if they are okay.

Finally, if you can do so safely, check the other vehicle. Do not move anyone who is injured unless there is immediate danger (such as fire).

If someone is hurt – even slightly – you’re going to call 911 in the next step. But even if everyone says they’re “okay,” you still need to call the police.

Step 3: Call 911 IMMEDIATELY – This Is Your Most Important Step

Here comes the number one mistake I see: People who decide “not to bother” the police because the accident seems minor.

BIG MISTAKE.

Call 911 now. Report the accident. Tell them your exact location. If there are injuries, tell them how many people are hurt and how serious it looks.

Why is it so critical to have a police report?

Reason #1: Official and Unbiased Evidence The police report is an official document that describes what happened. It includes statements from both drivers, witnesses, a diagram of the scene, and often the officer’s opinion of who was at fault.

This report is worth its weight in gold when you are negotiating with insurance companies. It is objective evidence from a neutral third party (the police officer).

Reason #2: Without a Report, Your Case Is Much Weaker Los Angeles Police Department data shows that 68% of claims without a police report are denied or drastically reduced by insurers. Why? Because without an official report, it’s your word against the other driver.

The other driver may say the accident never happened. He can say you hit him. He can make up any story. Without a police report, insurers often wash their hands and say “we can’t determine who was at fault.”

Razon #3: Algunas Lesiones No Aparecen Inmediatamente Latigazo cervical, conmociones cerebrales, lesiones de tejidos blandos – muchas lesiones comunes de accidentes de auto no se sienten hasta 12-48 horas despues. Si no hay reporte policial del accidente, y luego vas al hospital un dia despues, la aseguradora va a decir “¿como sabemos que estas lesiones fueron del accidente?”

Reason #4: It is Required by Law in Many Cases In California, you MUST report an accident to DMV within 10 days if there was injury or death, or if the property damage to any one person exceeds $1,000. And today, with the cost of repairs, almost any accident is going to exceed $1,000 in damages.

When the police arrive, they cooperate fully. But – and this is important – only provide the basic FACTS. Don’t say things like “I’m sorry, it was my fault” or “I didn’t see you.” We’ll talk more about this in a moment.

If for some reason the police cannot come (they are busy with larger emergencies), go to the nearest police station within 24 hours and make a report in person. It is better late than never.

Llamame al (800)529-7910 si tienes preguntas sobre como hacer un reporte policial o si la policia no vino a tu accidente.

Step 4: DO NOT Admit Fault or Apologize – This Can Destroy Your Case

Your natural instinct after an accident is to say “I’m sorry” – it’s part of being a decent, polite person. But in the context of a car accident, apologizing can be legally interpreted as an admission of guilt.

I have seen cases where a person said the words “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you” and the insurer used exactly those words to deny a $350,000 claim. Literally, three words destroyed the case.

Here’s what NOT to say:

“It was my fault” “I’m sorry” “I didn’t see you” “I was distracted” “I was going too fast” Anything that sounds like an admission of liability.

Instead, here’s what you MUST say:

“Are you okay? Do you need help?” “Let’s call the police” “Let’s exchange information.” If they ask you what happened: “I need to talk to my lawyer before making statements.”

Sound cold? Maybe. But you’re not being a bad person – you’re protecting your legal rights and your financial future. You can be polite and concerned about the welfare of others without admitting guilt.

Remember: Immediately after the accident, your brain is in shock. You don’t know exactly what happened. Maybe the other driver did something you didn’t see. Maybe a third vehicle contributed to the accident. Maybe there was a problem with the traffic signal or the road.

Let the official investigation determine the facts. Do not assume responsibility at the scene.

Step 5: Exchange Information With The Other Driver

You need to get certain information from the other driver (and they are entitled to get the same information from you). Here’s what you need:

From the Other Driver:

• Full name
• Phone number
• Residential Address
• Driver’s license number and status
• Vehicle license plate
• Make, model, and year of vehicle
• Insurance company
• Insurance policy number
• Claim number if you already have a claim number

Important: If the driver of the vehicle is not the owner of the vehicle, you also need the owner’s information. Sometimes the owner of the vehicle is legally responsible even if he/she was not driving.

If There Are Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Witnesses disappear quickly in a big city like Los Angeles. If someone saw what happened, their testimony can be the difference between winning and losing your case.

Ask them if they can quickly write down (on their phone or on paper) what they saw. The fresher the memory, the better.

If the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance: In Los Angeles, approximately 15% of drivers drive without insurance (illegally). If the other driver admits to not having insurance, still get all of his or her personal information. Don’t leave just because he says he doesn’t have insurance.

Tu propia poliza de seguro probablemente tiene cobertura de “motorista sin seguro” (uninsured motorist coverage) que puede cubrir tus daños. Como abogado especializado en accidentes de auto, puedo ayudarte a navegar esta situacion.

If It’s a Hit-and-Run: If the other driver left without giving information, try to remember (or note immediately):

• Color, make, and model of vehicle
• Plate number (even partial)
• Direction in which he left
• Any distinguishing feature of the vehicle or driver

Report it immediately to the police as a hit-and-run. Your “uninsured motorist” coverage may apply.

Step 6: Document EVERYTHING With Photos and Videos – Pretend to be a Journalist

Your cell phone is your best friend right now. The more pictures and videos you take, the better. Don’t worry about taking “too many” pictures – you can delete the bad ones later. But you can’t recreate the scene once you leave.

Pictures You MUST Take:

Of All Vehicles Involved:

• Damage from multiple angles (near and far)
• Each dent, scratch, or damage
• License plates clearly visible on all vehicles
• VIN (vehicle identification number) if visible
• Complete view of each vehicle showing its position

From the Accident Scene:

• The entire intersection or area where it occurred
• Traffic signs (stop, yield, speed limits)
• Traffic lights – if possible, video showing the complete light cycle
• Road conditions (potholes, oil, debris)
• Skid marks on pavement
• Vehicle fragments or debris
• Weather conditions (if it is raining, take pictures showing this).
• Viewed from the perspective of each driver

Your Injuries:

• Any visible injuries (cuts, bruises, blood, swelling)
• Damaged clothing
• Don’t be ashamed – these photos can be worth thousands of dollars.

From Inside Your Vehicle:

• Dashboard showing miles
• Deployed airbags
• Internal damage
• Damaged personal belongings

Important Extras:

• Witnesses (ask them if you can take a picture of their license to get their info)
• Nearby security cameras (take a picture of where they are located)
• Nearby businesses with possible cameras
• Bus or cab number if involved

En East Los Angeles, muchos negocios pequenos tienen camaras de seguridad. En Downtown Los Angeles, casi cada edificio tiene camaras. Documentar donde estan estas camaras es critico porque tenemos que actuar rapido para obtener las grabaciones antes de que se borren.

Video Is Even Better: If you can, take a video of the entire scene, narrating what you see. “I’m standing at the intersection of Cesar Chavez and Soto Street. Here’s my vehicle. Here is the other vehicle. As you can see, I was traveling eastbound…” etc.

Video captures details that individual photos can miss. And your narration helps establish your version of events while it’s fresh in your memory.

Step 7: Seek Medical Attention IMMEDIATELY – Don’t Wait “To See How You Feel”.

This is probably the most costly mistake I see. People who feel “okay” after the accident and decide to “see how I feel tomorrow.”

BIG MISTAKE. It can potentially cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Why You Should Seek Medical Attention Immediately:

Reason #1: Many Serious Injuries Are Not Felt Immediately

Your body is full of adrenaline after an accident. This adrenaline masks the pain. Serious injuries may not hurt for 12, 24, even 48 hours.

The most common injuries that are not immediately felt include:

• Whiplash – may take 24-72 hours to feel symptoms
• Concussions – symptoms may appear days later
• Herniated discs – pain may develop gradually
• Soft tissue injuries – swelling and pain increase with time
• Internal bleeding – can be fatal if undetected
• Small fractures – adrenaline can mask pain

I have had clients who felt “fine” at the scene of the accident, went home, and woke up the next day unable to move their neck. I’ve had clients pass out 12 hours later from internal bleeding.

Reason #2: Without Immediate Medical Documentation, Your Case Is Weak

Insurers have a favorite argument: “If he was really hurt, he would have sought treatment immediately.”

If you waited 3 days to go to the doctor, the insurance company will argue:

• Your injuries were not caused by the accident
• Something else happened in those 3 days that caused your injuries.
• Your injuries are not as serious as you say

Data from the Insurance Research Council show that victims who seek medical attention within 24 hours receive on average 230% more compensation than victims who wait more than 72 hours.

Reason #3: Insurers Look for Any “Gap” In Treatment

Insurance companies have software that analyzes your medical records looking for gaps in treatment. If there is a gap of even 2-3 weeks without treatment, they argue that you “clearly recovered” or “weren’t hurt that badly.”

Ongoing medical documentation from day one is critical.

Where to Go for Medical Attention:

Si Hay Lesiones Serias (sangrado, huesos rotos, perdida de conciencia): Ve a la sala de emergencias inmediatamente. En Los Angeles:

• LAC+USC Medical Center (Downtown) – excellent trauma center
• White Memorial Medical Center (East LA) – very good for emergencies
• California Hospital Medical Center (Downtown)
• St. Francis Medical Center (South Gate)

If Injuries Appear Minor: You should still be evaluated. You can go to:

• An urgent care clinic
• Your primary care physician if you can get a same day appointment.
• A chiropractor specializing in accidents

The important thing is that it be the SAME DAY of the accident, if possible. If the accident was late at night, go to the emergency room that night, or to a clinic first thing the next morning.

Si No Tienes Seguro Medico: No dejes que la falta de seguro te detenga. Como tu abogado de accidentes, puedo conectarte con doctores excelentes que tratan con base en “lien” (pago diferido). Ellos te tratan ahora y se les paga de tu compensacion cuando ganemos el caso. Llamame al (800)529-7910 y te conecto con el tratamiento que necesitas.

In The Doctor’s Office: Describe ALL your symptoms, even those that seem minor. If something hurts a little, say so. If you feel dizzy, say so. If you have a headache, say so. Don’t minimize your symptoms.

The doctor will document everything in your medical records. These records will later be used to prove your injuries and calculate your compensation.

Step 8: Obtain Copy Of Police Report

The police report is usually not available immediately. Depending on the department, it may take 5 to 10 days for it to be available.

How to Obtain the Report:

If it was Los Angeles Police Department, you can get it online at: https://www.lapdonline.org/ or in person at any police station.

If it was California Highway Patrol (freeway accident), you can apply at: https://www.chp.ca.gov/ or by calling (323) 259-3200 for the Los Angeles area.

You will need:

• Date of accident
• Accident location
• Report number (if available)
• Your driver’s license

There is usually a $15-$25 fee for the report.

Why You Need the Report:

The police report often includes:

• The officer’s determination of who was at fault
• Statements by both drivers
• Witness statements
• Diagram of the accident scene
• Subpoenas issued
• Insurance information for all parties

This document is gold when negotiating with insurers.

Si no sabes como obtener el reporte, llamame y mi equipo lo obtiene por ti.

Step 9: Report The Accident To Your Insurer (But Be Careful)

Your insurance policy probably requires you to report any accident within a reasonable time (usually 24-72 hours). You need to comply with this requirement or your insurer may deny coverage.

How to Report Your Insurance Company:

Call your insurance company and report that you had an accident. Provide:

• Date, time, and location of accident
• Other driver’s information
• Police report number
• Basic description of what happened

Important – Limit What You Say:

Even with YOUR own insurer, be careful what you say. Don’t say:

• “It was my fault.”
• Specific details about your injuries before you see a doctor.
• Specific amounts of compensation you expect to receive

Report the basic facts. If you are asked detailed questions about fault or injury, say “I’m still processing what happened” or “I’m waiting to see my doctor.”

Your insurer is not your friend. It’s a business that wants to pay as little as possible. Even your own insurer is going to look for reasons to reduce what they pay you.

Step 10: DO NOT Talk To The Other Driver’s Insurance Company – NEVER

The other driver’s insurance company will call you. Fast. Sometimes the same day of the accident. They’re going to be super nice, super understanding.

“Hi, this is Jennifer from State Farm. I’m so sorry to hear about what happened. I’m just calling to make sure you’re okay and to see if we can help you. Could you tell me what happened?”

Sounds innocent, doesn’t it? IT ISN’T.

This call has only one purpose: to get you to say something they can use to deny or reduce your claim.

Why The Other Driver’s Insurance Company Is Your Enemy:

Their job is not to help you. Their job is to protect their client (the driver who hit you) and minimize what their company has to pay.

They have adjusters professionally trained in asking innocent sounding but tricky questions:

“How do you feel?” – If you say “fine,” they’re going to say you’re not hurt.

“What exactly happened?” – Any inconsistencies with previous statements will be used against you.

“Have you seen a doctor yet?” – If you say “not yet,” they will argue that you are not really hurt.

“Have you had accidents before?” – They are looking for pre-existing conditions to argue that your injuries were not caused by this accident.

Even worse, they often record these calls without telling you clearly (or say quickly at the beginning that the call “may be recorded for quality purposes”).

What You Should Do:

When the other driver’s insurer calls you, say exactly this:

“I have retained an attorney. Please contact my attorney. I will not discuss the case without my attorney present.”

Then call me at (800)529-7910 and let me handle all communication with them.

Si ya hablaste con la aseguradora del otro conductor antes de leer esto, no entres en panico. Pero llamame inmediatamente para que podamos evaluar que dijiste y como proteger tu caso.

I have saved many cases where the client made early mistakes by talking to insurance companies. But the earlier I get involved, the easier it is to fix the damage.

Step 11: Preserve All Evidence

Evidence disappears fast. Here’s how to preserve everything:

Your Vehicle: Do not repair your vehicle until it has been fully inspected and photographed. If the insurance company wants to inspect, let them. If you need to repair it urgently, take dozens of pictures of every angle first.

Save any parts that were replaced (especially safety parts such as airbags).

Clothing and Belongings: If your clothing was damaged or stained with blood, keep it. Do not wash them. It may be important evidence.

Any damaged personal belongings (phone, laptop, glasses, etc.) – put them away.

Documents: Create a folder (physical or digital) and save ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING:

• Police report
• Photos and videos
• Medical records and invoices
• Prescriptions
• Medication receipts
• Documentation of lost wages
• Uber/Lyft receipts if you can’t drive
• Any correspondence with insurance companies
• Notes of telephone conversations (date, time, person you spoke to, what they said)

Recovery Journal: Start a journal documenting:

• Your pain level each day (scale of 1-10)
• Activities you can’t do because of your injuries
• How your injuries affect your daily life
• How you feel emotionally
• Medical treatments you receive

This journal can be powerful evidence of your pain and suffering.

Step 12: Contact a Lawyer BEFORE Doing Anything Else

Este es el paso mas importante. Todo lo demas en esta guia te ayuda, pero tener un abogado experimentado en accidentes de auto es lo que realmente maximiza tu compensacion.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

The numbers don’t lie. According to data from the Insurance Research Council:

• Victims with counsel receive 340% more compensation than victims without counsel
• 94% of cases with counsel result in compensation vs. 46% without counsel
• Cases with a lawyer are resolved on average in 7-8 months vs. 16 months without a lawyer.

What A Lawyer Does For You:

Protect Your Rights Immediately: From the moment you call me, I start protecting you. Insurers can no longer pressure you or ask trick questions. I handle all communication.

Preserve Evidence Before It Disappears: My team acts quickly to:

• Obtaining security camera recordings before they are deleted
• Interviewing witnesses while their memories are fresh
• Document the scene professionally
• Send legal letters requesting preservation of evidence

Te Conecta Con Tratamiento Medico: Tengo relaciones con los mejores doctores, quiropracticos, y especialistas en Los Angeles que trabajan con base en lien. Recibes tratamiento de calidad sin pagar nada de tu bolsillo.

Calculate The Real Value Of Your Case: Insurers offer a fraction of what your case is really worth. I know exactly how to calculate:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• All other compensation you are entitled to

Fight Aggressively For Maximum Compensation: I do not accept low offers. I am not intimidated by large insurers. I’ve gone up against State Farm, GEICO, Allstate, Farmers – and won. Repeatedly.

Ready to Go to Trial: 94% of my cases settle without trial. Why? Because the insurance companies know that I am fully prepared to go to court. That preparation gives me tremendous bargaining power.

Why Choose Me Specifically:

Over 32 years representing the Hispanic community in Los Angeles. Over $500 million recovered for my clients. I speak fluent Spanish – no translator needed. I understand the special concerns of our community. Real 24/7 availability, not just marketing. You pay nothing until we win your case. I know every intersection, every hospital, every courthouse in Los Angeles.

I’ve handled exactly your type of case before – many times. And I’ve won.

Llamame ahora mismo al (800)529-7910 o escribenos para tu consulta gratis. La consulta es completamente gratis, sin obligacion, y te dire honestamente si tienes un caso fuerte.

Additional Mistakes You Absolutely Must Avoid

We already talked about the steps you MUST take. Now let’s talk about the mistakes you MUST AVOID.

Fatal Mistake #1: Posting On Social Networks

This is probably the most common mistake in 2025. You post a photo on Facebook of your birthday smiling with your family. The insurer takes screenshot and uses it to argue “look, he looks happy and healthy, he’s clearly not suffering.”

You post a video on Instagram of you dancing at a wedding. “Look, she can dance, her back must be fine.”

You write on X (Twitter) that you went to the gym. “You say you can’t work out but you can work out?”

Insurers have investigators checking all your social networks. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, LinkedIn, ALL of them. They look for anything they can twist to use against you.

I have seen $200,000+ cases reduced to $30,000 because the client posted normal photos on social media.

The Simple Rule: Do not post ANYTHING about the accident, your injuries, or your activities until your case is fully resolved. Ideally, don’t post anything at all during your case.

If your friends or family post pictures of you, ask them to untag you.

Fatal Mistake #2: Making Recorded Statements Without Your Attorney

Your own insurer is probably going to ask for a “recorded statement.” Sounds reasonable, right? They just want to document what happened.

But these recorded statements are landmines. A small inconsistency, a poorly chosen word, a forgotten detail – all can be used against you later.

NEVER make a recorded statement without your attorney present. In California, you have the right to have your attorney there. Exercise it.

Fatal Mistake #3: Signing Broad Medical Releases

Insurers are going to ask you to sign authorizations for them to obtain your medical records. Sounds reasonable – they need to see your injuries from the accident, right?

The problem is that often these “releases” are broad and give them access to ALL of your medical records – not just those from the accident. They look for any pre-existing conditions, any prior injuries, anything they can use to argue that your current injuries were not 100% caused by this accident.

No firmes ninguna autorizacion medica sin que tu abogado la revise primero. Mandamela y te dire si es segura o no.

Fatal Mistake #4: Waiting Too Long to Seek Treatment

We have already talked about seeking immediate medical attention. But just as important: continue with the recommended treatment.

If your doctor tells you to go to physical therapy three times a week, GO three times a week. Not just once because you’re busy.

If you are prescribed medication, take it as directed.

If surgery is recommended, seriously consider it.

Insurers look for any “gaps” in your treatment. If there is a 2-3 week period where you didn’t go to the doctor, they argue “clearly recovered.”

If you did not follow your doctor’s recommendations, they argue “your injuries cannot be that serious if you did not follow the recommended treatment.”

Fatal Mistake #5: Accepting the First Offer

Insurers make quick offers – sometimes within weeks of the accident. They pressure you: “This is our best offer,” “If you don’t accept now, we may withdraw it,” “We need to settle this quickly.”

EVERYTHING is a lie.

The first offers are almost always a fraction of the actual value of the case. I have seen insurers offer $15,000 on cases worth $300,000. $40,000 on cases worth $500,000.

Why do they do this? Because they know that many people are desperate for money. They have medical bills piling up. They can’t work. They need cash now.

Insurance companies take advantage of this desperation.

No caigas en la trampa. Hablemos primero y dejame decirte cuanto vale REALMENTE tu caso. Luego puedes tomar una decision informada.

Fatal Mistake #6: Not Documenting Lost Wages

If you lost time from work because of the accident, you are entitled to compensation for those lost wages. But you need to document it.

Ask your employer for a letter on official paper stating:

• Your position and salary
• How many hours do you normally work
• How many days did you lose due to the accident
• How much money did you lose

If you are self-employed or cash, the documentation is more complicated but still possible. I need to see tax returns, income records, any documentation you have.

If you are unable to return to your previous job because of your injuries, the compensation for future lost wages can be enormous – potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars. But we need to document everything.

Special Situations Requiring Additional Steps

Some accident situations require specific additional steps:

If It Was A Hit-And-Run (The Other Driver Left)

In 2024, Los Angeles had 18,471 hit-and-run accidents – that’s 10% of all accidents. If the other driver left without giving information:

Call the police immediately and report it as a hit-and-run. Try to remember or write down any details of the vehicle that left (color, make, model, license plate, even if partial). If there are witnesses or security cameras, document them immediately. Report it to your insurer – your uninsured motorist coverage probably applies.

Los casos de hit-and-run son desafiantes pero no imposibles. He ganado muchos de estos casos. Llamame inmediatamente para que empecemos a investigar mientras las pistas estan frescas.

If Other Driver Was Under the Influence (DUI)

If you suspect that the other driver was drunk or drugged:

Tell the police officer your suspicions immediately. Describe any strange behavior, odor of alcohol, red eyes, slurred speech. Ask the officer to do a field sobriety test. Document everything with photos and videos.

If the other driver is arrested for DUI, your case is dramatically strengthened. You may qualify for punitive damages – extra compensation designed to punish the negligent driver.

In 2024, 28% of fatal accidents in Los Angeles involved drivers under the influence. If this is your case, I can get you significantly more compensation. I have won DUI cases where we got 2-3 times more compensation than a regular accident.

If the Accident Involved a Government Vehicle

If you are hit by a government vehicle (police, municipal bus, garbage truck, etc.), there are special rules:

You have only 6 months (180 days) to file an initial claim against the government entity. This is MUCH shorter than the standard 2 years. If you miss this deadline, you permanently lose your right to sue the government.

The process is complicated and technical. The rules are strict. The forms have to be perfect.

Si tu accidente involucro cualquier vehiculo del gobierno, llamame INMEDIATAMENTE – hoy mismo – al (800)529-7910. No podemos perder tiempo en estos casos.

If You Are An Uber/Lyft Driver Who Had An Accident On The Job

Si eres conductor de Uber o Lyft y tuviste un accidente mientras trabajabas, la situacion es complicada.

Your coverage depends on exactly what you were doing when the accident occurred:

App turned off – only your personal insurance applies. App on but no passenger – limited Uber/Lyft coverage applies. With passenger in the car – full $1 million Uber/Lyft coverage applies.

Uber and Lyft policies are complex. The companies often try to avoid paying. As a rideshare driver, you have rights but you need an attorney who understands these specific policies.

I have handled dozens of Uber and Lyft driver cases. I know exactly how to navigate these claims.

If You Are a Motorcyclist

Los accidentes de motocicleta tienen dinamicas unicas. Como motociclista yo mismo, entiendo esto personalmente.

Insurers are extremely biased against motorcyclists. They automatically assume that you were going too fast, that you were making dangerous maneuvers, that you “came out of nowhere.”

You need extra comprehensive documentation. Photos of your skid marks (if any) showing reasonable speed. Witnesses confirming that you were driving normally. Evidence that the other driver did not see or violated your right-of-way.

In California, 70% of motorcycle accidents are caused by car drivers. But the insurance companies will try to blame you. You need a lawyer who knows the motorcycle culture and who knows how to fight these prejudices.

I have won motorcycle cases where we got $640,000, $850,000, $1.2 million. I can do the same for you.

If You Are a Cyclist

Los accidentes de bicicleta tambien enfrentan prejuicios. Las aseguradoras asumen que el ciclista “no deberia haber estado en la calle” o “salio de la nada.”

But bicyclists have full rights in California. The streets are for all vehicles, not just cars.

It especially documents:

• If there was a bike lane and where were you?
• Relevant traffic signs
• Distance between you and the vehicle
• Any safety equipment you had (lights, reflectors, etc.)

California has specific laws protecting bicyclists, including rules about “dooring” (when someone opens a car door and hits a bicyclist). I know these laws intimately.

If You Were Hit as a Pedestrian

Los casos de atropellos frecuentemente resultan en las lesiones mas graves porque no tienes proteccion contra un vehiculo de 2-3 toneladas.

Critical points to document:

• Were you in a crosswalk?
• What light was on the pedestrian signal?
• Did the driver stop at a stop sign or red light?
• Did the driver see before turning?

In Los Angeles, pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked AND unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Many drivers do not know this.

Hit-and-run cases are often worth more because of the severity of the injuries. I have won cases of $2.5 million, $3.1 million, even $31 million for hit and run victims.

How Much Time You Have To Act – California Legal Time Limits

California has strict deadlines for filing lawsuits:

Personal Injury: 2 years from the date of accident

Property Damage: 3 years from the date of the accident

Wrongful Death: 2 years from date of death

Claims Against The Government: 6 months to file initial claim

These deadlines are called “statute of limitations” and are absolute. If you lose them, you permanently lose your right to sue, no matter how strong your case is.

BUT – don’t wait until the last minute. The sooner you act:

• More evidence we can preserve
• Your case will be stronger
• More compensation you are likely to receive
• The faster it will be resolved

Llamame hoy – no mañana, no la proxima semana – HOY: (800)529-7910

Your Time to Decide – Don’t Let the Insurance Companies Win

Okay, I’ve given you all the information. You know exactly what to do after a car accident. You know what mistakes to avoid. You know why you need a lawyer.

Now comes your decision.

What Happens If You Act NOW:

You speak to an experienced attorney who has handled exactly your type of case You get peace of mind knowing that a professional is protecting your rights We preserve critical evidence before it disappears Insurers can no longer pressure you or ask trick questions We connect you with quality medical treatment at no upfront cost You start on the path to maximum compensation Your family is financially protected

What Happens If You Wait:

Crucial evidence disappears every day you wait Insurers build a case against you without your input Your bargaining position weakens dramatically Medical bills pile up with no plan to pay them You lose thousands – potentially hundreds of thousands – in compensation Stress increases day by day Your family suffers the consequences.

The question is simple: Are you going to protect your family or are you going to let the insurance companies take advantage of you?

You Have Absolutely Nothing To Lose:

Consultation is FREE – you pay nothing to talk to me No obligation – you can decide after our conversation You pay nothing up front – not a penny until we win You pay nothing if we don’t win – we take all the risk You only win if we win – our interests are aligned

CALL NOW: (800)529-7910

Don’t wait another hour. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Don’t wait “to see what happens.”

Insurers are working NOW to minimize your compensation. Every minute you wait gives them more leverage.

Dial the phone now: (800)529-7910

O click aqui para escribirnos para tu consulta gratis.

I am available 24/7. I speak fluent Spanish. The call is completely free. In 15 minutes you will know exactly where you stand and what options you have.

Your family is depending on you to make the right decision. Make that decision NOW.

Jerry Jacobson
Auto Accident Attorney
The Law Offices of Jacobson & Associates P.C.
(800)529-7910

I have dedicated my career to fighting for Hispanic families in Los Angeles. In 32 years, I have seen thousands of cases. I know exactly what to do after an accident. Let me put that experience to work for you. Your family deserves justice. Call me now and let’s start fighting together.

Related Articles You May Be Interested In:

• Abogado de Accidentes de Auto en Los Angeles – Pagina Principal
• Qué Hacer Después de un Choque Por Detrás en California
• Abogado de Accidentes de Moto en Los Angeles
• Abogado de Atropellos en Los Angeles

Sirviendo con orgullo a: Los Angeles | East Los Angeles | South Gate | Bell Gardens | Maywood | Commerce | Vernon | Boyle Heights

Frequently Asked Questions About What To Do After An Accident