What Happens If You Injure Someone in an Accident

What Happens If You Injure Someone in an Accident

No one ever expects to cause an accident. Yet, it can happen to anyone, even to careful drivers. One moment you’re heading home after work, and the next, another car is damaged, someone is hurt, and everything changes. If you injure someone in a car accident, it’s natural to feel anxious and unsure about what will happen next. Understanding what takes place after an accident can help you navigate the process calmly and responsibly.

What To Do Right After the Accident

Immediately after the crash, your first priority should be safety. If possible, pull over to a safe area away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Check to see if anyone is hurt. If someone is injured, call 911 right away. Leaving the scene, even if you are scared, can make things much worse. Fleeing the scene of an accident that causes injuries is considered a hit and run in California, which is a serious crime. Once you’ve made sure everyone is safe, start documenting what happened. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, the damage, and the area around you. Capture details like skid marks, stop signs, and traffic lights. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. These small details can later make a big difference when the insurance companies and lawyers are reviewing the case.

The Role of Police and Medical Responders

When the police arrive, they will create an official accident report. This document becomes a key part of the investigation because it includes statements from both drivers, the witnesses, and the officer’s opinion on what likely happened. The report might note whether someone appeared distracted or was breaking a traffic law. If the officer suspects alcohol, drugs, or reckless driving, you could receive a ticket or even be arrested on the spot. Meanwhile, paramedics will check for injuries. Anyone who receives treatment will generate medical records, which are later used as evidence of their injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s smart to get checked by a doctor too. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, don’t show symptoms right away.

Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Once the scene has cleared, it’s time to notify your insurance company. Most policies require that you report any accident within twenty-four to forty-eight hours. When you speak with your insurer, keep your explanation brief and truthful. Describe the basic facts—where it happened, who was involved, and what you observed. Avoid guessing or blaming anyone. The insurance company will open a claim and assign an adjuster to handle your case. That person’s job is to gather evidence, review the police report, interview witnesses if necessary, and decide who was responsible.

The Insurance Investigation

The insurance adjuster will also look at your policy limits to see how much your coverage will pay if you’re found at fault. In California, the minimum coverage required by law is fifteen thousand dollars per person and thirty thousand per accident for bodily injuries. This means that if the injured person’s medical bills exceed that amount, they may seek additional compensation through a lawsuit. The adjuster may also contact the injured person’s lawyer or insurance company to try to resolve the claim.

Claims, Lawsuits, and the Legal Process

If the injured person decides to pursue a claim, it usually starts with a personal injury demand letter to your insurance company. Their lawyer will explain the injuries, medical treatment, and how the crash affected their life. Your insurer may negotiate with them directly. If both sides reach an agreement, the case can be settled without going to court. If not, the injured person can file a lawsuit against you. When that happens, your insurance company will assign a defense attorney to represent you. From there, the case moves into discovery, a stage where both sides exchange information and evidence. You may be asked to answer written questions, provide documents, or even give a deposition under oath. Many cases still settle before trial, but if not, a judge or jury will decide who was at fault and how much should be paid in damages.

Understanding Civil Liability

If the court finds that you were negligent, you will be financially responsible for the injuries and losses caused by the accident. Your insurance company will pay up to the limits of your policy. However, if the damages exceed your coverage, the injured person might pursue your personal assets. In practice, this rarely happens if you have sufficient insurance, but it’s one reason why higher policy limits are worth considering.

Possible Criminal Consequences

There are also situations where an accident can lead to criminal consequences. If you were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving recklessly, or fled the scene, you could face criminal charges in addition to the civil case. These can include fines, suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, probation, and even time in jail. The seriousness of the penalties depends on the circumstances, such as whether the injured person suffered serious harm or whether this was your first offense.

Long-Term Effects After the Accident

Beyond the immediate legal process, accidents often have long-term effects. Your insurance premiums may rise significantly after the crash, especially if your insurer determines you were at fault. You may find it harder to obtain affordable coverage in the future. In addition to financial stress, accidents can take an emotional toll. Many people replay the event in their minds, feeling guilt, worry, or regret even after everything is resolved. Taking responsible steps early on can help reduce the long-term impact and make it easier to move forward.

How to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself, it’s important to know what to do after an accident. Never leave the scene, no matter how minor it seems. Cooperate with the police, but don’t admit fault or guess about what happened. Notify your insurance company right away, and make sure you understand your policy limits so you know what’s covered. Keep all your documents organized, including medical reports, repair estimates, and insurance letters. Most importantly, consult a personal injury attorney. Even if you think your insurance company will handle everything, having your own lawyer ensures that your rights are protected, especially if the injuries are serious or the claim value is high.

When to Talk to a Lawyer

Dealing with an accident that injures someone else can be overwhelming. A lawyer can help explain your options, communicate with insurance companies, and make sure you don’t make statements that could harm your case. If the injured person is threatening to sue or if you’re unsure about your coverage, legal advice can make a major difference. The earlier you speak with an attorney, the more protection you’ll have.

Final Thoughts

Accidents happen in an instant, but their effects can last for years. Knowing what to do, who to contact, and how to handle the situation can make all the difference. If you’ve been involved in an accident where someone was injured, whether you believe you were at fault or not, Anderson Franco Law can guide you through every step of the process. Our team helps people across California navigate the legal and insurance systems with clarity and confidence. We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and the best next steps to take after an accident.