Car accidents are an unfortunate reality in Southern California, and Burbank is no exception. Whether you’re dealing with a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can significantly affect your physical recovery, legal rights, and financial future. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take after a car accident in Burbank, supported by expert legal insight, real-life considerations, and best practices to protect your claim.
Your first priority after any accident should be your safety and that of your passengers. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. If you’re physically able, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions. California law requires drivers to render reasonable assistance and move vehicles off the roadway if possible.
In Burbank and throughout Los Angeles County, contacting the police after an accident is not just good practice—it’s crucial for legal documentation. A police officer will document the scene, collect statements, and file an official accident report. This report is often a critical piece of evidence in insurance negotiations and personal injury claims.
Pro Tip: Ask for the name and badge number of the officer, and request a copy of the report for your records.
If you’re able to safely do so, collect as much information as possible:
This evidence can make or break your personal injury claim.
Many injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. Always seek medical evaluation after an accident. This ensures your health is protected and creates a medical record that links your injuries to the crash, which is essential if you later decide to file a claim.
Keep all medical bills, diagnoses, prescriptions, and treatment recommendations.
Most insurance policies require you to report any accident, even if you’re not at fault. Provide them with basic facts, but avoid speculating or admitting fault. Never give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance adjuster without first consulting an attorney.
California is a fault-based state, which means the at-fault driver is liable for damages. Insurance companies, however, often try to minimize payouts. An experienced car accident attorney in Burbank can help you:
Most reputable personal injury attorneys, like those at ANTN Law, offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—so you don’t pay unless you win.
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if your accident involved a government vehicle or public road hazard, the deadline could be as short as six months.
Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected and gives your attorney enough time to build a strong case.
It’s tempting to assume everything will work itself out after an accident, but delays and poor documentation can hurt your case. Insurance companies often exploit gaps in medical treatment, missing reports, or a lack of photo evidence to reduce or deny compensation.
Building a strong personal injury case starts the moment the accident occurs.
At ANTN Law, we’ve helped countless car accident victims in Burbank and greater Los Angeles recover the compensation they deserve. From securing medical treatment to aggressively negotiating with insurers, we’re committed to making sure you’re not alone on the road to recovery.
If you’ve been in a car accident in Burbank, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you take the next step toward justice.
Being prepared and informed is your best defense in the wake of an accident. Let ANTN Law guide you every step of the way.
