Legends Legal Marketing | October 21, 2025 | Car Accident
A car accident can disrupt your life in an instant. Beyond the immediate shock, you may be left facing medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. If you’ve been injured in a crash in El Cajon or the greater San Diego area, understanding how California law works and what steps to take can make a big difference in your recovery.
At Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped car accident victims across San Diego County navigate this process with clarity and care. Here’s what you should know about filing an injury claim in El Cajon.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Your first priority after any accident should be medical care. Even if you feel “okay,” injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal damage may not appear right away. Getting prompt treatment protects your health and also creates the medical records you’ll need if you decide to file a claim.
Step 2: Report the Accident
California law requires you to report crashes involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. In El Cajon, that usually means contacting the local police or California Highway Patrol. The police report provides valuable documentation, including statements and initial fault assessments.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
Evidence fades quickly. If you’re able to, collect as much information as you can such as:
- Photos of all vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Names, phone numbers, and insurance details of all drivers
- Contact information for witnesses
- Notes about the time, weather, and traffic conditions
This evidence can support your claim and help establish who was responsible.
Step 4: Be Cautious with Insurance Companies
You’ll need to notify your insurance company about the crash, but be careful with what you say. Insurance adjusters may look for reasons to reduce or deny your claim. Avoid giving recorded statements until you’ve spoken with a personal injury lawyer who can help you protect your rights.
The cost of an accident often goes beyond immediate medical bills. Understanding what it really takes to hire a car accident lawyer in San Diego County can help you prepare for the claims process.
Step 5: Know What Compensation May Cover
If you were injured due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills, including future treatment
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your damages totaled $100,000, you could still recover $80,000.
Step 6: File Your Claim Within California’s Deadline
Most personal injury claims in California must be filed within two years of the accident. If your crash involved a government vehicle or roadway, the deadline may be as short as six months. Missing these deadlines usually means losing your right to compensation, so it’s important to act quickly.
Why Legal Help Matters
Navigating a car accident claim on your own can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. A personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Ensure your claim is filed on time
Contact Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in El Cajon, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The right information and the right support can make all the difference.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward recovery.
FAQs
1. Do I need to report a car accident in El Cajon?
Yes. California law requires you to report any accident involving injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage.
2. Who pays for my medical bills after an accident?
Usually, the at-fault driver’s insurance covers your costs, but your own policy may also help through MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage.
3. Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under comparative negligence, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced based on your share of fault.
4. How long do I have to file a car accident claim?
Most claims must be filed within two years, but cases involving government vehicles or property may have a six-month deadline.
5. What if the other driver has no insurance?
You may still be able to recover damages through your uninsured motorist coverage.
6. Do I need a lawyer for a car accident claim?
While not required, a lawyer can help you avoid mistakes, handle negotiations, and pursue maximum compensation.