Immediately after a car accident in Citrus Heights, your first priority should be safety. Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible, turn on hazard lights, and check on all parties involved. Once you're safe, call 911 to report the incident. Even for minor collisions, having a police report can support your claim later. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and collect names of witnesses. Take photographs of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and visible injuries. Do not admit fault at the scene—even simple apologies may be used against you later. Seek medical care right away, even if symptoms aren't obvious. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may take hours or days to appear. Medical records serve as direct evidence in your injury claim. Notify your insurance company promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements until you consult a lawyer. If the accident was not your fault, speaking to a Citrus Heights car accident lawyer early can help you avoid common mistakes. Lawyers often work on contingency, so there's no upfront cost to get advice. Preserve all receipts, reports, and communication related to the accident. These will help your attorney assess damages for property loss, medical bills, and time off work. If contacted by the other party’s insurer, refer them to your attorney to avoid jeopardizing your case. Every decision made in the hours after a crash can impact your outcome. Working with an experienced lawyer ensures your actions align with protecting your financial recovery.