What to Do After a Car Accident in Orange County, CA?

By Peter Corrales

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Car Accidents

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Last Modified on Jan 15, 2026

Car collisions can happen anywhere in Orange County, from Santiago Canyon Road to Laguna Canyon Road and everywhere in between. The aftermath of a car crash can be chaotic. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Orange County, CA, can help you protect your health and your ability to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. Consulting an Orange County personal injury lawyer can be crucial, as personal injury claims often rely heavily on evidence like police reports and medical records.

Check Yourself and Others for Injuries and Call 911

Collisions along Pacific Coast Highway, Harbor Boulevard, and elsewhere in Orange County can lead to serious bodily injuries. After a collision, assess yourself and ask passengers if they believe they are injured. Call 911 and tell the dispatcher the location of the collision and how many people may potentially need medical care. If your car is operational, drive your car away from moving traffic and await police and EMS.

Gather Evidence From the Scene of the Crash

If you can safely do so, take photos of the scene of the accident. Note vehicle damage, skid marks, and the road environment. Collect contact information from the parties involved in the collision and potential eyewitnesses. These and other forms of evidence can support your claim to fair compensation.

Seek Medical Attention

Car collisions can lead to serious injuries. Even if you do not need to be taken to an emergency room, you should undergo a full examination as soon as you can following a collision. A full examination can prevent complications from injuries that you may not have noticed. Seeking medical attention also creates an important paper trail of documentation that can support your injury claim.

A full examination can prevent complications from injuries that you may not have noticed. Seeking medical attention also creates an important paper trail of documentation that can support your injury claim.

Gather the Police Report and Other Forms of Documentation

Following a serious injury, the local police department may generate a police report. The report can take several days to be completed. You can contact your local law enforcement department and request a copy for your records. Insurance companies and the court system view police reports as objective forms of documentation. Reports often contain information that can be used to establish fault following a collision.

Find an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

The civil courts are busy venues where legal representation is key. Across 58 superior courts in California, there were 278,901 civil filings that included personal injury claims in fiscal year 2023-2024. Whether your compensation comes from negotiations with an insurer or direct action through the courts, having the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your injury claim.

Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

Orange County sees a high number of traffic collisions, with 17,809 accidents resulting in injuries or death in 2023 alone. When you hire a car accident lawyer, you gain the support of someone who understands California’s car accident laws and how they may relate to your car accident case.

An Orange County car accident attorney can help gather the types of evidence that can hold up in court. They can independently investigate the cause of the collision before pursuing compensation on your behalf. Car accident lawyers are skilled negotiators and litigators who can rely on their years of experience to help you secure the compensation that you are owed.

FAQs

Should I File a Claim Immediately After an Accident?

You should file a claim as soon as possible following an accident. Your insurance should be notified about the collision. Be careful not to say anything to your insurer that could be used against you. Contacting an injury lawyer early on can help you gather the evidence you’ll need to successfully secure compensation. Legal representation also ensures you receive the right advice throughout the claim process.

What Are Common Mistakes People Make Following a Car Accident?

One common mistake people make following a car accident is discussing the case with other parties tied to the collision or insurance carriers. Any social media posts that downplay your injuries could also compromise your claim. Contact an attorney as soon as possible and allow them to handle negotiations on your behalf.

What Is the First Thing You Do After a Car Accident?

The first thing you should do after a car accident is to call 911 and report the collision. Notify the dispatcher where the collision occurred and how many people may be involved. That way, they know how many ambulances to send your way. These and other steps can protect your health and safety, as well as the safety of those around you.

What Are the Five Steps You Should Follow if You Are Involved in a Car Accident?

If you are involved in a car accident, move to a safe area and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. Take photos of vehicles, damage, and the scene. Get witness details if possible. Seek medical care promptly. Report the accident to your insurer and keep all records. These steps can protect your safety and lay the groundwork for a successful injury claim.

Contact a Trusted Car Accident Law Firm in Orange County

If you were injured in a car collision in Orange County, Corrales Law Group is here to help. Our law firm has proudly served the people of Orange County since 2012. We understand how stressful a personal injury can be, which is why we provide comprehensive legal services focused on seeing that you have the resources you need to recover and move forward with confidence.

Once we take on a case, we place significant resources into representing our clients. All communications are returned within 24 hours. Our aim is to see that you feel safe and supported throughout the claims process. Our legal team provides legal services in both English and Spanish. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation so we can provide you with the exceptional advocacy and support your case deserves.