Being hit by a car is frightening and disorienting. In Southern California, where busy freeways, congested city streets, and high pedestrian traffic are part of daily life, accidents happen far too often. In the moments and days that follow, many people are unsure what steps to take, who to call, or whether they have a valid legal claim.
Whether you were hit as a pedestrian, cyclist, or driver in Los Angeles, Riverside, Beverly Hills, or elsewhere in Southern California, what you do next can significantly affect your health and your legal rights.
Step One: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health should always come first. Even if you feel “okay,” it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible after being hit by a car. Many injuries, such as concussions, internal injuries, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away.
Prompt medical treatment creates documentation linking your injuries to the accident, which can be critical in California for personal injury claims.
Step Two: Report the Accident
In California, accidents involving injuries should be reported to law enforcement. A police report helps document what happened, identify the parties involved, and preserve key details from the scene.
If the collision occurred in a busy Southern California area, such as Downtown Los Angeles, near nightlife districts, or along major corridors, there may also be traffic cameras or nearby businesses with surveillance footage that can support your claim.
Step Three: Document the Scene When Possible
If you are physically able, gathering evidence can help protect your rights. This may include:
- Photos or videos of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries
- Names and contact information of witnesses
- Details about traffic signals, crosswalks, or road conditions
In high-traffic Southern California locations, conditions can change quickly, making early documentation especially valuable.
Common Injuries After Being Hit by a Car
People struck by vehicles often suffer serious injuries, including:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Neck, back, and spinal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries that worsen over time
- Emotional distress, anxiety, or trauma
Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable, and injuries may require long-term medical care or rehabilitation.
What If the Driver Stayed at the Scene?
When a driver remains at the scene, injury claims typically involve:
- The driver’s auto insurance coverage
- Determining fault under California’s comparative negligence laws
- Disputes over the extent of injuries and damages
Insurance companies often move quickly after an accident. Understanding your rights before providing detailed statements can help protect your claim.
What If the Driver Fled the Scene? (Hit-and-Run Accidents)
Hit-and-run accidents are a serious problem throughout Southern California. If the driver leaves the scene, you may still have legal options.
In many cases, compensation may be available through:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage
- Other applicable insurance policies
- Claims are pursued if the driver is later identified
Hit-and-run cases often involve strict notice requirements and deadlines under California law, making timely action especially important. Witnesses and nearby surveillance are key in Hit-and-run cases.
Understanding Your Legal Options in California
Depending on the circumstances, a person hit by a car may be entitled to pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent injuries or disability
Each case is fact-specific, and California personal injury claims often involve multiple layers of insurance and liability analysis.
Why Car Accident Injury Cases Can Be Complex
Even when liability seems clear, car accident cases in Southern California may involve:
- Disputed fault or shared responsibility
- Multiple insurance policies and coverage limits
- Missing evidence or uncooperative insurers
- Strict legal and procedural deadlines
What begins as a single incident can quickly become a complex legal matter.
You’re Not Alone
If you, or someone you love, were hit by a car in Southern California, you are not expected to have all the answers right away. Understanding the general steps to take and the legal options that may be available can help protect both your health and legal rights during an overwhelming time. California law provides pathways for injured individuals and their families to seek compensation, whether the driver remained at the scene or fled. Becoming informed is often the first step toward accountability, recovery, and peace of mind.
If you have questions about what happened or want to understand your legal options, Dordick Law Corporation is available to help. Click here to schedule a free consultation or call us toll-free at (310) 551-0949. Serving clients throughout Southern California from offices in Downtown Los Angeles, Riverside, and Beverly Hills, our mission is to bring justice and compensation to those who have been wronged.
