How to File a Car Accident Claim in California Without Delay

Car accidents are traumatic, unexpected events that can leave you injured, overwhelmed, and uncertain about your next steps. If you’ve been involved in a car crash in California, it’s crucial to act quickly and understand your legal rights. Filing a car accident claim without delay is essential to protecting your health, preserving evidence, and maximizing your compensation.

At Razavi Law Group, we help injury victims across California manage the claims process with confidence and clarity. Below, we outline the steps to file a car accident claim in California—and explain how our experienced legal team can assist you every step of the way.

✅ Step 1: Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety are the top priority. If you’re injured:

Call 911 and seek emergency medical care.
Move to a safe location, if possible.
Do not admit fault or make statements to the other party’s insurer.

Medical records will serve as key evidence in your claim. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out internal or delayed-onset injuries.

📸 Step 2: Document the Accident Scene

Gather as much evidence as you can. This includes:

Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
Names and contact details of the other driver and any witnesses
A copy of the police report (if available)
Insurance and license information of the other driver

This documentation can support your version of events and help determine liability.

📝 Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company

California is an at-fault state, meaning the person responsible for the accident is also responsible for the damages. However, you must notify your insurance company promptly—even if you weren’t at fault.

Keep your communication brief. Do not provide a recorded statement or sign any documents without consulting an attorney first.

🧾 Step 4: File a Claim With the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

You can file a third-party claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. This process involves:

Providing evidence of fault and damages
Submitting medical records, bills, repair estimates, and proof of lost wages
Negotiating for fair compensation

Unfortunately, insurance companies are known to undervalue claims or deny them altogether. That’s where an attorney becomes crucial.

🕒 Step 5: Understand California’s Statute of Limitations

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. If you’re filing a property damage-only claim, the limit is three years.

If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover any compensation. Working with a lawyer ensures that all timelines and legal procedures are followed correctly.

⚖️ How Razavi Law Group Can Help

Filing a car accident claim in California isn’t just paperwork—it’s a legal process that demands attention to detail, strategy, and negotiation skills. The Razavi Law Group team is here to help you avoid costly delays and mistakes.

We Help By:

Investigating your accident and gathering strong evidence
Communicating directly with insurers and adjusters
Accurately valuing your claim, including future medical needs and lost earning potential
Negotiating aggressively for full and fair compensation
Filing a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.