What To Do After a Car Accident in Newport Beach?

The moments after a car accident can feel disorienting and overwhelming, especially on the busy streets of Newport Beach. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or an uncooperative driver, it’s important to know what to do after a car accident in Newport Beach. From seeking medical attention to documenting the crash scene, each decision you make plays a role in your financial recovery.

Prioritize Your Safety and Report the Accident

Any collision that leads to any injury or causes serious damage to a vehicle must be reported to the police immediately. The easiest way to do that is by calling 911 after the collision. Report your location and tell the dispatcher how many people may be potentially injured so they can send the right number of paramedics.

When police arrive, describe what happened as neutrally and factually as possible. If you can safely do so, take photos of the accident scene and allow the paramedics to check you over for injuries. Do not speak about the details of the accident to any other drivers. Gather contact information from the parties involved and any potential eyewitnesses.

Seek Medical Attention and Document Your Injuries

Even if you feel fine, seek medical care right away. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and injuries like whiplash or internal trauma may not appear until hours later. Visit Hoag Hospital or a local urgent care in Newport Beach to establish a medical record.

Keep all treatment records, prescriptions, and billing information in one place. Take photos of visible injuries and maintain a journal detailing pain levels, mobility issues, and how the crash affects your daily life. This documentation is critical when filing a claim or pursuing legal action. Insurance companies often scrutinize claims that are not backed by medical proof.

Notify Your Insurer and Consider Securing Legal Representation

As soon as you can, notify your insurer about the crash. Provide basic information, but avoid making recorded statements until you have fully assessed the evidence. Complications can arise when working with insurers, including your own providers. If you find that your injury is not taken seriously or fault is being disputed, it could be time to seek legal representation from an attorney who handles injury cases.

An attorney can help gather traffic camera footage, medical documentation, and witness testimony to build a strong claim. If you’re contacted by the other driver’s insurer, refer them to your legal counsel.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk of Being in a Car Collision in Newport Beach

As with other densely populated parts of California, driving in Newport Beach means sharing the road with heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and a growing number of large commercial vehicles. In 2022, the city recorded 452 vehicle collisions, while Orange County as a whole saw a sharp rise in serious crashes, up to 12,600 incidents. In 2020, there were 9,600 collisions, according to Caltrans and SWITRS.

One high-profile incident illustrates the risks. In September 2020, a tractor-trailer hauling a forklift slammed into the Bolsa Chica bridge supports on the 405 Freeway, which is just south of Westminster. The crash shut down several lanes of traffic.

To lower your risk of being involved in a serious crash, stay alert at all times, especially along major routes like the 405, Pacific Coast Highway, and MacArthur Boulevard. Follow posted speed limits, give trucks extra space, and never assume other drivers see you.

Avoid distractions, including phone use, and always buckle up. With rising crash numbers and dense traffic, defensive driving and steadfast awareness of your surroundings can help you keep from becoming another tragic statistic.

FAQs

Q: Should I File an Insurance Claim if I Am Not at Fault?

A: Yes, filing a claim protects your interests and ensures repairs begin quickly. Your insurer can seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver later. Notifying your insurance company right away also gives you a safety net if the other driver denies responsibility or delays. Early reporting helps keep your options open and avoids potential coverage issues.

Q: Should You Always Call the Police After a Car Accident in California?

A: Yes. A police report is valuable for both insurance and legal purposes. California law also requires reporting accidents with injuries or property damage over $1,000. Officers can document what happened and help resolve disputes later. Always request a copy of the report. That evidence may be critical if questions arise about who caused the collision.

Q: What Should You Do in a Minor Car Accident in California?

A: If you can safely do so, move your vehicle out of traffic. Check for injuries, exchange contact and insurance information, and take photos of the scene. Even if the damage looks minor, report the crash to your insurance company. Small accidents can lead to delayed injuries or disputes about fault, so documenting everything protects you from future problems.

Q: What Are the Steps to Dealing With a Car Accident?

A: First, make sure everyone is safe and call 911. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Document the crash scene with photos and notes. Report the accident to your insurer and get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. You have the right to consult with an attorney. These seven steps can protect your health and strengthen your claim to fair compensation.

Schedule Your Newport Beach Accident Consultation Today

Following a car accident in Newport Beach or the surrounding areas, you do not have to settle for anything less than what you are owed. With legal representation from Duque & Price, you can receive the full range of damages that you are owed. Our legal team can take the time to learn about the financial hardships that you suffered because of your injury.

Once we understand what you are owed, we can aggressively pursue compensation from insurers or directly from the at-fault party through the filing of a personal injury claim in court. When you work with our legal team, you gain a tireless ally who will not rest until you are financially restored for the harm you suffered. Contact our office today to start the process.

About The Author

Brent A. Duque

From humble beginnings and son of hard-working immigrant parents, Brent Duque was raised in La Puente, California. After graduating from West Covina High School and Mt. San Antonio College, Mr. Duque went on to graduate from Cal State University Fullerton with a Bachelors degree in Political Science. After obtaining his undergraduate degree, Mr. Duque did his graduate studies in Education and Public Administration at California Polytechnic University Pomona. After working for other firms, Mr. Duque knew that if he opened his own firm, he could provide more aggressive representation, better communication with clients, and secure larger settlements and verdicts for his clients. In 2006, he started his firm and has had a remarkable and successful career that he attributes to his firm’s aggressive and relentless pursuit of justice for his clients. As owner and managing attorney of the firm, Mr. Duque has fought for and secured millions of dollars for his clients.

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