Posted on Wednesday, June 22nd, 2022 at 9:01 am    

Being involved in a serious car accident is frightening. There is a rush of adrenaline that takes over, and it can be hard to think clearly and rationally about the situation you now find yourself in.

In any type of car accident, there are important steps you must take. Some are required by California law, and some are important to take because they can help strengthen your case later if you pursue an insurance or legal claim against another driver. serious car accident

If you’ve been involved in a serious auto accident call Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000, or reach out to us online.

Here are the steps you should take next:

Call 911

If you or anyone else at the scene is seriously injured, you need to get medical treatment immediately. Call 911 and make sure medical services and law enforcement are on their way to help.

Even if the accident is minor and you don’t immediately go to the hospital, make sure you get checked out by a physician promptly. Some auto accident injuries, including certain traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, can take time for symptoms to manifest.

Report the Accident

CA law states that the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident with crash victims, injuries or wrongful death must, within 24 hours, make a written report of the accident to the California Highway Patrol or the local police department

Also, calling law enforcement when you’ve been involved in an auto accident is important because the investigation and subsequent police report can be very important when trying to establish fault and liability for most motor vehicle accidents.

Collect Information

If you are able, make sure that you collect information from everyone at the scene of the accident, including the other driver, other auto accident victims, and any third-party witnesses.

You will want to make sure you have the driver’s name, address, insurance information, phone number, driver’s license number, and license plate number. All of this information should be kept safe and given to your Sacramento car accident lawyer.

Document Everything

Again, if you are physically able, make sure that you take photos of the accident, the damage to both cars, debris, tire marks on the road, and any other pertinent information about the scene.

Try to make notes of what happened immediately before the accident while the details are still fresh in your mind. This information will help your case and car accident lawyers.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Contact your insurance provider to let them know you’ve been involved in an accident. Give them the facts only and do not admit anything.

Contact the California DMV

California law stipulates that drivers involved in a car accident case that results in injuries, a death, or property damage of more than $1,000 must report the accident to the California DMV.

Drivers have ten days from the date of the accident to complete the Traffic Accident Report and turn it in to the DMV. Failing to report your Sacramento car accident can result in serious penalties.

Do not go on Social Media

It can be tempting to get people on your side but resist the urge to take to social media after your Sacramento car accident

Your best bet is to stay quiet; that way, an attorney or insurance adjuster can’t use your own statements against you or twist them to make you seem like the one at fault.woman after a car accident

Contact an Attorney

Contacting a Sacramento car accident attorney right away means that you have someone on your side who can help with the investigation, gather evidence, talk to your insurance company, and support you through the difficult process of getting compensated fairly for your injuries.

Let an attorney shoulder some of this burden so you can focus on what matters, you and your family. If you’re facing an accident claim and need legal representation in Sacramento County, or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to call us at (916) 999-9000 (toll-free: (800) 712-2000), or contact us online for a free consultation.

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.