By Attorney Christopher Brainard – California Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, you may wonder if—or when—you should speak to a lawyer. The short answer: as soon as you suspect something serious, or if anything about the crash raises questions.
Here’s why timing matters—and when legal guidance can make a significant difference.
1. Immediately After the Accident
📌 Right away—or as soon as your condition stabilizes—you should consider contacting an attorney.
An early call helps:
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Preserve evidence like footage, witness statements, and crash site conditions
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Ensure your medical care is documented properly
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Protect you from making damaging statements to insurers, consequently the best time to contact an attorney is right after the accident—or as soon as you suspect something’s wrong
2. Before Giving a Recorded Statement
Insurance adjusters frequently ask for recorded statements to use against you later. You are not obligated to provide one.
✅ Tip: Politely decline until after you’ve consulted a lawyer.
3. When Injuries or Property Damage Are Significant
Call a lawyer if:
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You’ve suffered injuries requiring ongoing care, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation
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Your vehicle was totaled or there’s major damage
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You lost income due to the crash
According to legal experts, hiring an attorney is generally advised when there's significant injury or property damage
4. If Liability Is Disputed or Shifts
When fault isn’t clear—or you suspect the other party or insurer will claim comparative negligence—an attorney can build a stronger case.
California’s fault system allows them to reduce your recovery by your fault percentage—so clarity on liability is critical.
5. If the Insurer Denies or Undervalues Your Claim
Delay, lowball offers, or straight denials are common.
Studies show that claims managed by lawyers yield settlements nearly 5× higher than those handled alone.
A lawyer can:
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Challenge denials
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Negotiate aggressively
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File suit if needed
6. Near the Statute of Limitations Deadline
In California, most car accident cases must be filed within two years of the accident (Property damage claims have a 3-year deadline).
Even if you don’t plan to sue immediately, a prompt legal review ensures your rights are protected.
7. In Complex or Multi-Party Accidents
Accidents involving:
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Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists
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Hit-and-runs or uninsured drivers
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Multiple vehicles or government entities
require legal navigation to determine liability and coverage.
An attorney helps identify all sources of compensation.
✅ Summary Checklist: When to Call a Lawyer
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Injury or medical treatment needed
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Totaled car or high property damage
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Disputed fault or blame being shifted
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Insurance demanding statements or offering quick settlement
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Claim is denied or undervalued
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You’re nearing the 2-year filing deadline
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Accident involves multiple parties or uninsured drivers
Why Acting Early Matters
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Evidence fades: Surveillance video, skid marks, and witness memories deteriorate quickly
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Adverse statements: Your words to insurers can be used to deny or minimize claims
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Peace of mind: You focus on recovery while your lawyer handles insurers and legal deadlines
Take the Right Step—Call LawBrainard Today
If you’ve been in a California car accident or suspect complications in your claim, call a lawyer before insurers or delays complicate your case.
📞 Text/Call: (310) 266-4115
🌐 Visit: www.LawBrainard.com
🗓 Schedule a consultation to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Christopher Brainard is a California personal injury lawyer helping injured individuals navigate claims, maximize compensation, and hold negligent parties accountable. He provides straight-talk guidance with personalized, results-focused representation.
*This article/blog is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Christopher Brainard, Esq. An attorney-client relationship can only be formed through a written and signed agreement with Christopher Brainard. If you need legal advice about your specific situation contact us for a consultation. [Christopher Brainard, 651 N. Sepulveda Blvd., #2010, Bel Air, CA 90049. Tel: (310) 266 - 4115. Email: christopherbrainard@gmail.com].