Steps to Take After a Car Accident in San Bernardino County



Have you been injured in a collision in San Bernardino County? Contact the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 for a free case evaluation and learn how our experienced legal team can help you navigate the claims process.

The moments immediately following a collision can be chaotic and stressful. Your first priority should always be safety:

• Take a deep breath and try to remain calm
• Check yourself and your passengers for injuries
• Assess the severity of the situation
• If anyone appears seriously injured, avoid moving them unless absolutely necessary

The shock of an incident can mask injury symptoms, so it’s important to monitor yourself and others involved for signs of trauma even if everyone seems fine initially.

While waiting for law enforcement to arrive, exchange information with all other drivers involved in the incident:

It’s also important to collect telephone numbers from any witnesses who may have seen the collision occur. Their testimony could be valuable if there are disputes about how the incident happened.

• Photograph all vehicles involved from multiple angles
• Capture close-ups of vehicle damages
• Take pictures of the overall scene, including road conditions
• Document any visible injuries
• Photograph relevant road signs, traffic signals, or obstacles
• Note weather and lighting conditions

Understanding the specific laws that apply to vehicular incidents in San Bernardino County can help you protect your rights:

• California is a “fault” state for traffic collisions, meaning the person responsible for causing the incident is also responsible for the resulting damages
• The state follows “pure comparative negligence” rules, which means compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the collision
• You must report incidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the DMV within 10 days

Knowledge of these local regulations can help you avoid potential pitfalls in the aftermath of a collision.

After an incident on the road in San Bernardino County, you have specific legal rights and responsibilities that can impact your ability to recover damages.

• Initial claim filing with relevant insurance companies
• Claim investigation by insurance adjusters
• Assessment of damages (property damage and injuries)
• Settlement negotiations
• Possible litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Even if you feel fine immediately after a collision, it’s crucial to seek medical attention:

• Some serious injuries may not show symptoms right away
• Medical records create an official documentation of your injuries
• Delaying treatment can give insurance companies reason to dispute your claim
• Follow-up care is essential for both your health and your legal claim

San Bernardino County has numerous medical facilities equipped to handle collision injuries, from minor to severe.

• The police report
• All medical records and bills
• Evidence of lost wages due to injury
• Repair estimates for vehicle damage
• Photographs of the collision scene and injuries
• Witness statements

Several resources are available to help victims in San Bernardino County navigate the aftermath of a collision.

Working with a knowledgeable attorney in San Bernardino County can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Legal professionals can:

Many lawyers offer free consultations to evaluate your case and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they recover compensation for you.

• Emergency rooms for immediate trauma care
• Urgent care centers for less severe injuries
• Specialists for specific injury types (orthopedists, neurologists, etc.)
• Rehabilitation centers for ongoing recovery
• Pain management specialists

Beyond legal and medical assistance, other resources can help with recovery:

• Support groups for collision survivors
• Mental health services for trauma and stress
• Temporary transportation services
• Financial assistance programs for those facing hardship

These resources can provide valuable support during what is often a challenging time.

• California has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims
• Insurance policies typically require “prompt” reporting of incidents
• Evidence can disappear or degrade with time
• Witnesses’ memories fade

Delaying action can significantly weaken your position when seeking compensation.

Need an experienced lawyer with proven results? Our firm has secured settlements and trial verdicts for clients throughout San Bernardino County. Call 909-915-0181 to discuss how we can help with your case.

After a hit-and-run incident, immediately call police and provide any details you can remember about the other vehicle. Gather witness information, take photographs, and report the incident to your car insurance company, as your uninsured motorist coverage may apply.

If you’re in a collision with an uninsured driver, call law enforcement to document the incident, collect the driver’s personal information, and contact your auto insurance provider. Your uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage may help cover your damages.

Most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. Initial consultations are typically free, making legal representation accessible regardless of your financial situation. Learn more about our fee structure.

Visit the police department that responded to your incident with your case number, driver’s license, and proper identification. You may need to pay a small fee and complete a request form. This official document contains crucial information for your insurance claim and will be requested by your car insurance company.

A comprehensive roadside assistance plan should include towing services, jump starts, flat tire changes, lockout services, and fuel delivery. Many car insurance policies offer these services as add-ons, providing valuable help when you experience a breakdown or fender-bender on San Bernardino County roads.