What to Do After an Injury
Start with your safety and medical care. These practical checklists explain what to document and where to turn next.
After a Car Accident
- Get to safety. Call 911 for an emergency and seek care for injuries.
- Exchange information. Collect driver, vehicle, insurance, and witness details when safe.
- Document the scene. Photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries without putting yourself at risk.
- Report and preserve. Notify your insurer promptly, keep records, and check police-report requirements. California requires an SR-1 within 10 days when anyone is injured or killed, or property damage exceeds $1,000.
- Get guidance. Understand a proposed release before signing and ask an attorney about your claim.
After a Dog Bite
- Move away safely. Avoid further contact with the animal. Call 911 for a serious emergency.
- Clean the wound and get care. Wash with soap and water. Contact a healthcare professional about the injury, infection risk, tetanus, and possible rabies exposure.
- Identify the dog. If safe, get the owner’s contact details and the dog’s vaccination information. Do not attempt to capture it.
- Report the bite. Contact local animal control or public health and keep the report information.
- Preserve evidence. Keep photographs, witness details, medical records, expenses, and damaged clothing. Ask an attorney about next steps.
After a Slip and Fall
- Get medical help. Prioritize your injuries and call 911 for an emergency.
- Report the incident. Notify the manager, owner, or responsible agency. Ask for a copy of any incident report.
- Document the hazard. When safe, photograph the exact location, substance or defect, lighting, and warning signs.
- Save evidence. Keep witness details, footwear, clothing, receipts, and medical records. Request preservation of surveillance promptly.
- Check your options early. Ask an attorney about evidence and applicable deadlines, especially when public property is involved.
Need help with your next step? Book a free consultation or call 213.583.0977. General information; individual circumstances and deadlines vary.
