Get yourself to safety, call 911, and get medical attention even if you feel okay. Then document what you can and be careful about what you say to the other driver's insurance company.
Right after a crash, adrenaline hides pain. A lot of neck and back injuries don't show up until the next day, so seeing a doctor early protects both your health and your claim. If you can do it safely, take photos of the vehicles, the street, any skid marks, and your injuries. Get the other driver's name, license, insurance, and plate. If there are witnesses, ask for their numbers.
California is a pure comparative-fault state, which means even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover, though your recovery is reduced by your share. That's one reason it helps to avoid guessing about fault at the scene or apologizing on reflex.
When an adjuster calls, you don't have to give a recorded statement or accept a fast offer. Those calls come quickly, and early offers are often low. Most car accident claims in California must be filed within two years under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, but if a city bus or public vehicle was involved, the deadline to file a claim can be much shorter.
This is general information, not legal advice, and every case turns on its own facts.
Joe Crudo handles car accidents and other personal injury cases across San Diego, and the first conversation is free. If you were hit by a rideshare driver, see our page on rideshare accidents.
Call (858) 622-7280 or reach us through the contact page to talk through what happened.