Being involved in a car accident is stressful and overwhelming. One moment you’re driving down Mission Street or merging onto I-280, and the next you’re dealing with a crash that changes your entire day — or even your entire life. Many people are unsure what steps to take after an accident, which can make it harder to protect their health, finances, and legal rights.

At Bay Area Legal Ally, we help injury victims in Daly City and across the Bay Area navigate this process. Below are some important steps to take if you’ve been involved in a car accident.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

The most important thing after any accident is your safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to call 911 so police and medical professionals can respond. Some injuries — like concussions or internal bleeding — may not show symptoms right away. Having a medical record from the scene can also strengthen your case later.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If your vehicle can still operate, move it to the side of the road or a safe location nearby. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Remaining in the middle of the road can put you and others in more danger.

3. Exchange Information

California law requires drivers to exchange certain information after an accident. Be sure to collect:

• Name and contact information of the other driver
  
• Driver’s license number
  
• License plate number
  
• Insurance company and policy number
  
• Contact information of any witnesses
  

Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Stick to gathering information and letting the police handle the report.

4. Take Photos and Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Capture details like traffic signals, weather conditions, and road hazards. This evidence can be very useful later when building your claim.

5. Seek Medical Care

Even if you feel okay, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be obvious right away, and delaying care can make them worse. Medical records also serve as important evidence when seeking compensation for your injuries.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Be careful about what you say — stick to the basic facts. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or suggest you don’t need compensation for certain injuries. That’s why speaking with an attorney before agreeing to any settlement is so important.

7. Contact a Daly City Personal Injury Attorney

The aftermath of a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover physically and emotionally. An experienced Daly City personal injury attorney can guide you through the process, handle communication with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Bay Area Legal Ally, we represent accident victims throughout Daly City and the Bay Area. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

Why Legal Help Matters

Many accident victims make the mistake of handling their claim alone. Unfortunately, insurance companies often use this to their advantage, offering low settlements that don’t come close to covering medical bills, lost wages, or long-term care needs.

An attorney can:

• Investigate the accident
  
• Collect and preserve evidence
  
• Calculate the full cost of your injuries and losses
  
• Negotiate with insurance companies
  
• Represent you in court if needed
  

Having a skilled lawyer on your side can make the difference between walking away with minimal support and securing the compensation you need to move forward.

Final Thoughts

A car accident can turn your life upside down, but knowing what to do next can help protect both your health and your legal rights. By seeking medical care, documenting the scene, and contacting an experienced attorney, you give yourself the best chance at a fair outcome.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Daly City accident, Bay Area Legal Ally is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.