The moments after a car accident are disorienting. Between the shock of the collision, the exchange of information, and the immediate concern for injuries, it can be difficult to think clearly about what comes next. But the days following a crash are just as important as the scene itself — and the steps you take during that window can significantly affect the strength of your personal injury claim.
Pilavjian Law answers some of the most common questions we hear from car accident victims in Van Nuys below. If you have questions about your specific situation, call (818) 380-3021 to speak with an attorney at no charge.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel okay?
Yes — and as soon as possible. Many of the most serious injuries from car accidents, including whiplash, soft tissue damage, concussions, and internal injuries, do not produce obvious symptoms right away. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or even days after a crash. Seeing a doctor promptly does two things: it ensures any hidden injuries are identified and treated early, and it creates a medical record that directly connects your injuries to the accident. Gaps in treatment or delayed medical visits give insurers an opening to argue that your injuries were not caused by the crash or were not as serious as claimed.
Should I contact the other driver’s insurance company?
You are generally required to report the accident to your own insurance company, but you are not obligated to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer — and doing so without legal guidance can hurt your claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in ways that elicit answers that can be used to minimize your settlement. It is almost always in your best interest to have an attorney handle communications with opposing insurers on your behalf.
What if I start feeling worse a few days after the accident?
Return to your doctor immediately and document everything. Delayed onset of pain, stiffness, headaches, or neurological symptoms after a car accident is common and medically recognized. Make sure your provider notes the connection to the accident in your records. Continue following your treatment plan and keep a personal log of how your symptoms affect your daily life, your sleep, and your ability to work. This documentation can be valuable when calculating pain and suffering damages.
What evidence should I be gathering?
If you have not already done so, take photographs of your vehicle damage, any visible injuries, the accident scene, and road conditions. Obtain a copy of the police report. Save all medical bills, pharmacy receipts, and records of any appointments related to your injuries. Keep track of any wages lost due to missed work. If there were witnesses at the scene whose contact information you collected, preserve that as well. The more documentation you have, the stronger your position when negotiating a settlement.
How long do I have to file a claim in California?
California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. While two years may sound like plenty of time, building a strong case takes time, and evidence can disappear quickly. Surveillance footage gets overwritten, witnesses become harder to reach, and physical evidence fades. Consulting an attorney early gives your legal team the best opportunity to preserve what matters most.
When should I contact a personal injury attorney?
As soon as possible after the accident. Many accident victims wait until they receive a lowball settlement offer before seeking legal help — by then, opportunities to strengthen the case may have already passed. Pilavjian Law offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless we win. Reaching out early costs you nothing and can make a significant difference in your outcome.
If you were injured in a car accident in Van Nuys, call (818) 380-3021 today to schedule your no-obligation consultation with Pilavjian Law.