What to Do After a Car Accident in Hermosa Beach
The aftermath of a car accident can be frightening and overwhelming, but it’s crucial that you keep a clear mind. That way, you know what to do to protect yourself and your chances at recovering damages for your losses. Instead of leaving yourself vulnerable, learn what to do after a car accident in Hermosa Beach, and be prepared for the worst.
Car Accidents in Hermosa Beach: Statistics, Trends, and Civic Responses
Hundreds of people are killed either while behind the wheel or simply trying to navigate throughout Los Angeles due to traffic accidents. Between 2012 and 2022, a total of 8,103 people died in traffic accidents in Los Angeles County. In 2023, the area also had its highest number of traffic fatalities in over two decades, with 364 reported deaths.
If an accident results in the victim’s death, certain members of their family could file a wrongful death claim to recover damages for their loss. Recent data shows that around 42 percent of victims in fatal crashes in California were alive immediately after the accident. It’s imperative to act quickly, not only to protect your rights to compensation but also to potentially save lives.
Even when an accident doesn’t result in a fatality, it can alter the lives of victims forever. In California, injury and death rates from bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and other motor vehicle collisions have steadily increased in recent years, leaving many families to cope with lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
To combat these rising numbers, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation started Vision Zero, which is a citywide effort to make Los Angeles streets safer. So far, the results are promising. Since 2023, traffic-related fatalities have been slowly declining once more. Injuries, however, have stayed fairly steady.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Hermosa Beach
No matter the trends in the rate of car accidents, they’ll always pose a risk. That’s why it’s important for area residents to know what to do after a car accident in Hermosa Beach.
It’s critical to act quickly after a motor vehicle accident so you’re prepared to file a claim. Even if you’re not sure if you’re going to seek legal recourse, having this information can protect you. At the scene of the accident, be sure to:
- Contact local law enforcement.
- File a report, and give your own statement.
- Exchange information with involved parties.
- Take pictures and videos.
- Talk to witnesses.
Once the immediate aftermath of an accident has passed, it’s wise to contact a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options. Also, be sure to report the incident to your insurance provider.
FAQs
Do I Need to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Hermosa Beach?
It’s not always a requirement to file a police report after a car accident. In situations where the crash results in injury or death, however, you typically must report it. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to file a report and give your own statement. You can also request a copy of that report for your own records. This can be useful evidence if you decide to file a car accident claim to recover damages.
What’s a Common Mistake People Make After Getting in a Car Accident in Hermosa Beach?
One common mistake people make after a car accident is leaving the scene without exchanging information with the other party. Unless you need immediate medical attention, it’s important to gather as much information as possible before you leave the scene of an accident.
It’s wise to take pictures and videos of the damage, talk to the involved parties and witnesses, and write down as many details as possible. That way, you don’t have to rely solely on your memory later.
Is There Anything to Avoid Saying to My Insurance Company After a Car Accident in Hermosa Beach?
It’s important to report an accident in Hermosa Beach to your insurance provider as soon as you can, but that doesn’t mean you have to give them every detail. In fact, it’s actually wise to withhold certain information from your insurance company. Insurers ultimately want to save as much money as possible.
In situations where your own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy covers your compensation, your insurance can use any information you give them to determine exactly how much you are owed.
How Soon After a Car Accident Do I Have to Report It to My Insurance in Hermosa Beach?
If you’re in an accident, it’s wise to report it to your insurance as soon as you can. California law does not require drivers to report accidents to their insurance provider, but many individual policies do. You can complicate your coverage in the future by not reporting an accident in a timely manner.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer to Navigate Hermosa Beach Car Accident Laws
Recovering from a car accident goes beyond healing from physical injuries. Our goal at Shaffer Law is to hold the right person accountable so you can recover the appropriate damages for your losses. No matter the details of your case, you can count on Douglas D. Shaffer to build a strategy and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mr. Shaffer has over 30 years of experience in navigating California personal injury cases. Over the years, he’s recovered more than $100 million for clients in complex personal injury, car accidents, and wrongful death cases. He’s also litigated more than 60 catastrophic injury cases.
Mr. Shaffer has built an impressive reputation as a trusted car accident attorney. He was nominated as Trial Lawyer of the Year and was selected as one of the High-Rated 100 Trial Lawyers in the United States.
He’s also been recognized by U.S. & World Report Lawyers and was honored by Super Lawyers every year from 2009-2021. Furthermore, he’s an Associate with the American Board of Trial Advocates. That said, you can count on him to get you to a settlement, no matter where your case takes you. Contact Shaffer Law to schedule an appointment with a Hermosa Beach car accident attorney you can trust.
Copyright©2025, Shaffer Law. All Rights Reserved.
Digital Marketing By 
