Home > Blog

The First Steps to Take After a Serious Car Collision

Taking the right steps after a serious car collision is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health and your legal rights. In Burbank, accident victims often turn to a Burbank car accident lawyer to guide them through the confusing moments that follow a crash.

From gathering evidence at the scene to helping you avoid common mistakes, these legal professionals play a key role in making sure you don’t face the aftermath alone and that you get the support and compensation you deserve.

Check for Injuries First

After a crash, your first concern should always be safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call emergency services right away. Try not to move anyone who may have head, neck, or back injuries unless there is an immediate danger, like fire or leaking gas.

Even if you feel fine, your body might still be in shock. Some injuries don’t show up right away, so it’s a good idea to get checked by a medical professional as soon as you can.

Get to a Safe Spot if You Can

If your vehicle is blocking traffic or in a dangerous position, move it to the side of the road if it’s safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives. Always use caution when stepping outside, especially on busy roads or highways.

Call the Police and Report the Accident

In Burbank, you’re required to report serious collisions to the police. An officer will come to the scene, talk to both parties, and write a report.

This report becomes an important piece of evidence later, especially if there’s a disagreement about who caused the crash. Make sure to ask the officer how to get a copy of the report. You’ll need it if you file a claim or hire a lawyer.

Exchange Information

What Details You Need to Collect

While waiting for the police, exchange basic information with the other driver. This includes:

Name and contact details
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Insurance company and policy number

If there are witnesses, try to get their names and phone numbers too. They may be helpful to a burbank car accident lawyer if the facts are disputed later on.

Take Photos of the Scene

If you’re able, use your phone to take pictures of the scene. Focus on vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. These images help show what happened and may be useful in building your case later.

Try to get different angles and include nearby signs or landmarks if possible. The more you document now, the easier it is to recall details later.

Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if your injuries seem small, it’s important to see a doctor. Some symptoms like headaches, soreness, or numbness can take time to appear. A medical exam not only protects your health, but also links your injuries to the accident in case you need to file a claim.

Delaying care may hurt your case and make it harder to prove your injuries came from the crash.

A Burbank car accident lawyer will want to see:

Medical records and hospital visits
Doctor’s notes about your condition
Bills for treatment or medications
Evidence of time missed from work

When to Call a Lawyer

Signs You Should Contact a Lawyer

After a serious collision, many people ask, “Do I need a lawyer?” If you were injured or feel unsure about your next steps, talking to a Burbank car accident lawyer is a smart move. They can help you understand your rights, explain your options, and protect your claim from the start.

You should consider reaching out to a lawyer if:

You have injuries or ongoing pain
The other driver is blaming you
You’re getting medical bills you can’t afford
You were hit by a distracted or uninsured driver

Keep Track of Everything

Documents That Can Strengthen Your Case

Staying organized helps make your case stronger. Keep a folder or digital file with important documents related to the accident. This includes:

The police report
Medical records and receipts
Photos of your injuries and car damage
Notes about how the injury is affecting your life
Names of people you’ve spoken to about the case

Being able to show this information clearly can help your lawyer and speed up the process.

Focus on Healing While Your Lawyer Handles the Rest

Your recovery should always come first. Listen to your doctor, show up to your follow-up visits, and give yourself time to rest and heal. Let your lawyer deal with the paperwork and legal steps while you focus on feeling better. Taking care of your health also helps build a stronger case in the long run.

Get the Help You Need After a Serious Crash in Burbank

A serious car collision can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and overwhelmed. But taking the right steps early on can protect your future and your peace of mind. Get medical care, document everything, and talk to a trusted professional who can guide you through the process.

A Burbank car accident lawyer can be your advocate every step of the way. From dealing with paperwork to making sure you’re treated fairly, they help you move forward with confidence so you can focus on what really matters.