Posted on Friday, April 15th, 2016 at 2:28 am    

CALIFORNIA VEHICLE ACCIDENT CHECKLIST

Being involved in a vehicle accident can be terrifying. Even if you are not seriously injured, the shock of being in an accident can be overwhelming. If you have never been in a vehicle accident, it is difficult to know what to do immediately after the crash and in the days following the accident. Below is a checklist you can use after a vehicle accident to ensure you take all of the necessary steps to protect yourself and your legal rights.

Motor Vehicle Accident Checklist

  • Call for emergency assistance. California law requires that you stop and remain at an accident scene until police arrive or until you have exchanged information with the other driver, if police do not respond to the accident. When you call 911, tell the dispatcher if you need an ambulance and/or the fire department.
  • Do NOT admit fault even if you believe you are at fault for the accident. Until the investigation is complete and you consult with an attorney, you should refrain from discussing the accident with anyone other than your attorney.
  • If there are no injuries and police do not respond, exchange information with the other driver including the other driver’s full contact information; the driver’s insurance information; the name & address of the vehicle owner; the vehicle’s make, year, model, color, and license number; and, the names & contact information for all other passengers in the vehicle.
  • Obtain the names and contact information for all eyewitnesses to the accident.
  • If possible, take photographs of the accident scene and the vehicles. If you do not have a cell phone with a camera, place a disposable camera in your glove box.
  • If you cannot take pictures, draw a simple diagram of the accident scene.
  • Note the name and badge number of the police officer who investigates the accident scene — ask for his business card.
  • If you did not go to the hospital from the accident scene, see your family doctor as soon as possible. In some cases, you may have an injury that was not visibly apparent immediately following the accident.
  • By law, you must file a vehicle accident report with the California DMV within 10 days of the accident if the property damages was over $750, anyone was injured, or anyone was killed.
  • Report the accident to your insurance company.
  • Request a copy of the police report.
  • Keep copies of all documents including medical records, police reports, insurance documents, etc.
  • Contact Tiemann Law Firm for a free legal consultation prior to making any statements or signing any documents for the other driver’s insurance company or any representatives.

Our Sacramento Vehicle Accident Attorneys Are Here for You

Contact Tiemann Law Firm for a free consultation with one of our Sacramento vehicle accident attorneys. Call (916) 999-9000 or chat with a representative on our website. One of our friendly staff members can answer your questions about vehicle accident claims and the steps you should take now to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to under California’s personal injury laws.

Client Testimonials

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Star Fire Testimonial
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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Maye Ly Testimonial
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I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.