Car Accidents
Car accidents are the most common type of personal injury case in California and Arizona. Whether you were rear-ended, T-boned, or involved in a multi-vehicle collision, understanding your rights and next steps can protect your health and your claim.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Availability varies by state and case type.
8
Immediate steps
25
Evidence items
Common injuries
Whiplash, Traumatic Brain Injury, Broken Bones +2 more
Common Causes
Distracted Driving
Cell phone use, eating, or other distractions that take a driver's attention off the road.
Speeding
Driving over the posted speed limit or too fast for road conditions.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications that impair reaction time and judgment.
Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Failing to obey traffic signals, often causing T-bone or intersection collisions.
Tailgating
Following too closely, leaving insufficient stopping distance.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Merging without checking blind spots or using turn signals.
Road Rage
Aggressive driving behaviors including cutting off, brake-checking, and deliberate collisions.
Likely Injuries
These types of accidents are frequently associated with the following injuries. Select an injury to learn more.
What To Do Immediately
- 1
Call 911 if anyone is injured
CriticalIf there are injuries — even minor ones — call 911 immediately. Do not move injured people unless there is an immediate danger.
- 2
Move to safety if possible
CriticalIf the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic, move them to the shoulder. Turn on hazard lights.
- 3
Document the scene with photos
ImportantBefore moving anything, photograph all vehicles, damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- 4
Exchange information with other driver(s)
ImportantGet name, license number, insurance company, policy number, and contact information from all drivers involved.
- 5
Get witness information
ImportantAsk any bystanders for their name and phone number. Independent witnesses can be critical if fault is disputed.
- 6
Seek medical evaluation within 24-48 hours
CriticalEven if you feel fine, see a doctor. Delayed symptoms (whiplash, concussion) are common. A medical record establishes a connection between the accident and your injuries.
- 7
Notify your insurance company
ImportantReport the accident to your insurer promptly. Stick to the facts — avoid speculating about fault or the extent of injuries.
- 8
Keep records of everything
HelpfulSave all medical bills, repair estimates, rental car receipts, and any documentation of lost wages.
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Evidence Checklist
Check off items as you collect them. Critical items should be gathered as soon as possible after the accident.
At the Scene
CriticalMedical Documentation
CriticalFinancial Records
ImportantInsurance & Legal
ImportantAdditional Evidence
HelpfulTimeline Risks
Key deadlines and time-sensitive actions. Missing these windows can significantly affect your options.
- 1
Within 24-48 Hours
Delayed injury symptoms may go undocumented
Seek a medical evaluation even if you feel fine. Establish a medical record connecting the accident to any injuries.
- 2
Within 3-10 Days
Scene evidence disappears
Return to the accident location for additional photos if needed. Download dashcam footage before it overwrites.
- 3
Within 30 Days
Insurance reporting windows
Most policies require prompt reporting. Notify your insurer within the first week to avoid coverage issues.
- 4
Within 6 Months
Memory fades, witnesses become unreachable
Write a detailed account of the accident and your injuries while your memory is fresh. Collect witness statements.
- 5
2 Years (California)
Statute of limitations for personal injury
You generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in California. Missing this deadline typically bars your claim.
- 6
2 Years (Arizona)
Statute of limitations for personal injury
Arizona also has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Government vehicles may have shorter notice requirements.
Insurance Issues to Know About
Quick settlement offers
Insurance adjusters may contact you within days with a settlement offer. Early offers are typically low and made before the full extent of injuries is known. You are not required to accept.
Recorded statement requests
The other driver's insurer may ask you to give a recorded statement. You generally are not required to comply with the opposing insurer's requests. Consult with an attorney before agreeing.
Disputed liability
Insurers may argue about who was at fault or assign shared blame to reduce their payout. California uses pure comparative fault — your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Underinsured or uninsured drivers
If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply. Review your policy carefully.
Medical payment coverage (MedPay)
Some California policies include MedPay, which covers medical expenses regardless of fault. This can help cover immediate costs while your claim is being resolved.
When You May Benefit From Speaking With a Lawyer
You are not required to hire an attorney. But in some situations, speaking with a lawyer experienced in personal injury matters can help protect your options. This is educational information, not legal advice.
- You or any passenger sustained injuries requiring medical treatment
- The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
- Fault is disputed or you were partially blamed
- You received a quick settlement offer before fully understanding your injuries
- A commercial vehicle (truck, bus, rideshare) was involved
- The accident involved a government vehicle or unsafe road conditions
- An insurance adjuster is pressuring you to settle quickly
- Your injuries have caused significant lost wages or long-term disability
State-Specific Notes
California
- Statute of limitations: 2 years from date of injury for personal injury claims
- Fault rule: Pure comparative fault — you can recover even if partially at fault, reduced by your percentage
- Insurance minimum: $30,000/$60,000/$15,000
Arizona
- Statute of limitations: 2 years from date of injury for personal injury claims
- Fault rule: Pure comparative fault — your recovery is reduced by your share of fault
- Insurance minimum: $25,000/$50,000/$15,000
Laws vary by state and are subject to change. The above is general educational information only and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation.