If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, you’re not alone. With millions of registered vehicles and some of the busiest highways in the country, car crashes happen every day — from minor fender-benders to serious injury collisions.
Knowing what to do immediately after a California car accident, how fault and insurance work, and what your potential settlement could be is essential to protecting your rights and your recovery.
This California Car Accident Guide from InjuryClaimCoach.com provides step-by-step information based on California law to help you navigate the process.
Step 1: What to Do After a Car Accident in California
After any crash, your safety and documentation are top priorities. Here’s what to do:
- Stay at the scene. Leaving the site of an accident is illegal under California Vehicle Code §20001.
- Call 911. Always report the crash to law enforcement, even if injuries seem minor.
- Seek medical care. Some injuries take hours or days to appear — get checked by a doctor right away.
- Collect evidence. Take photos, get witness statements, and record license plates and insurance details.
- Notify your insurance company. California law requires you to report an accident that causes injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 within 10 days (Form SR-1).
- Keep documentation. Save all receipts, medical reports, and repair invoices.
- Consider legal guidance if injuries or damages are significant.
California Is a “Pure Comparative Fault” State
California follows the pure comparative fault rule, meaning:
You can recover compensation even if you were partly at fault — but your payout will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example:
If your total damages are $50,000 and you were found 20% responsible, your recovery would be $40,000.
This rule allows for fair outcomes but also means insurers may try to assign more blame to reduce payouts. Evidence and documentation are key.
Average Car Accident Settlement in California
According to InjuryClaimCoach.com, the average settlement for a moderate car accident in California is approximately $50,154, though it can vary widely:
- Minor injuries: around $7,439
- Moderate injuries: around $50,154
- Severe / life-threatening injuries: up to $1,373,155
Your actual settlement depends on:
- Medical expenses and treatment duration
- Lost wages or reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering / emotional distress
- Property damage
- Fault percentage
To estimate your case value, you can try the California Injury Settlement Calculator — a free tool for minor to moderate cases.
California Auto Insurance Requirements
Every driver in California must carry minimum auto liability coverage of:
- $15,000 for injury or death to one person
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
- $5,000 for property damage
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM / UIM) is optional, but strongly recommended — it can protect you if the other driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your damages.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is:
- 2 years from the date of injury (California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1)
- 3 years for property damage
If you miss the deadline, you could lose your right to recover compensation — even if your case is strong. Don’t wait to gather evidence and file your claim.
When to Speak With a California Car Accident Attorney
While the InjuryClaimCoach guide is designed for minor to moderate claims, you should consult an experienced personal injury lawyer if:
- Your injuries required hospitalization or surgery
- You have lasting pain or disability
- The other driver denies fault or is uninsured
- Your claim involves multiple vehicles or complex liability issues
An attorney can negotiate with insurers, gather expert evidence, and help you secure fair compensation.
The Bottom Line
The California Car Accident Guide by InjuryClaimCoach.com is a valuable resource for anyone dealing with an auto accident in the Golden State.
It explains:
- What to do immediately after a crash
- How California’s comparative fault laws work
- What typical settlements look like
- When to seek professional help
While it’s not legal advice, it’s a great place to start if you’re trying to understand your rights and estimate your potential recovery after a car accident.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and settlement values can vary by case and jurisdiction