Printable checklist
After a crash. What to do, in order.
Keep this in your glovebox or on your phone. It covers the scene, the first 24 hours, and the first 10 days, plus the deadlines most people miss.
At the scene
- Stop, check for injuries, and call 911 if anyone is hurt.California requires drivers in an injury crash to stop and give reasonable help (Vehicle Code 20001).
- Get to a safe spot if you can. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Exchange information with the other driver.Name, address, driver’s license, registration, and insurance.
- Take photos.Both cars, license plates, the whole scene, traffic signals, skid marks, and your injuries.
- Get witness names and phone numbers.Witnesses leave fast. Ask before they do.
- Write down the officer’s name, badge number, and report number.
- Do not apologize or guess about fault.Stick to facts. Fault is decided later, with evidence.
The first 24 hours
- See a doctor, even if you feel fine.Some injuries show up hours or days later, and a gap in treatment is used against you.
- If anyone was hurt, make sure a written report goes to the CHP or local police within 24 hours.Vehicle Code 20008. If an officer took a report at the scene, ask whether anything else is needed.
- Tell your own insurance company about the crash.Your policy usually requires prompt notice.
- Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer.You are not required to. Refer them to your lawyer.
The first 10 days
- File an SR-1 report with the DMV if required.Required within 10 days if anyone was injured or killed, or if property damage to any one person was over $1,000 (Vehicle Code 16000).
- Keep every bill, receipt, and medical record in one folder.
- Keep a short daily note on pain, sleep, and missed work.
- Do not post about the crash or your injuries on social media.
- Do not sign a release or accept a settlement check before talking to a lawyer.A signed release usually ends your injury claim for good.
Deadlines that matter
6 monthsTo file a claim if a city, county, state, or transit agency is involved (Gov. Code 911.2).
2 yearsTo file a personal injury lawsuit in most cases (Code of Civil Procedure 335.1).
2 yearsFor an uninsured motorist claim: sue the driver, settle with your insurer, or formally start arbitration (Ins. Code 11580.2).
Questions after a crash? Talk to the attorney directly.
Meline Mailyan · (747) 200-5520General information, not legal advice. Every case is different. Deadlines can be shorter or longer depending on the facts.
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