What to do after a California car accident

Individuals who have been involved in a car accident are obligated to stop and call the proper authorities. If anyone involved in the accident has been injured, someone must make an effort to provide reasonable assistance. This may include calling 911, taking that person to the hospital or rendering first aid. To ensure that safety of those involved in the accident and other motorists, it may be worthwhile to place warning cones or flares at the scene.

Although state law says that those involved should render aid to injured car accident victims, they should only do so under certain circumstances. For example, it may only be safe to pull someone from a car before it becomes engulfed in flames. However, if the car is already on fire, it may be more prudent to simply call 911 and wait for help. Outside help may consist of first responders or it may involve other passing motorists.

Regardless of whether there are injuries in the accident, it may be required that each driver exchange his or her information. Each driver should be able to see the other driver's registration and driver's license. It may be prudent to take down that information as well as the name, age and address of passengers in each car as well as any witnesses to the crash.

After a motor vehicle accident, it is important to ensure that everyone involved is safe or gets the treatment that they need. Anyone who is injured in a car crash may wish to take legal action against the driver who caused it. It may be possible to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages and any future medical costs related to injuries suffered in the accident. An attorney can provide assistance throughout the legal process.

Source: The State Bar of California, "What Should I Do If I Have An Auto Accident?", accessed on Feb. 27, 2015