Focus on recovery. Know your rights.
Just got hurt? Start here
The first 72 hours after an injury
A short checklist for the days right after an accident, and a direct line to a California law firm when you are ready.
Se habla español — Spanish-speaking staff available at the sponsoring firm, Apollo Law Group.
Call Apollo Law Group (888) 457-0888
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Good to know
Before you do anything else
Get medical care first, and tell every provider exactly how you were hurt so it is in your records. Photograph injuries, vehicles and the scene while they still look the way they did.
You do not have to give a recorded statement to the other side's insurance company. It is reasonable to wait until you understand your injuries and your options.
Case review
5 quick questions
About a minute. Not a law firm. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Your information may be shared with participating attorneys who may contact you.
Se habla español — Spanish-speaking staff available at the sponsoring firm, Apollo Law Group.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
- Most injury claims ask four questions: did someone owe you a duty of care, did they fail to meet it, did that failure cause your injury, and did you suffer real harm such as medical bills, lost income or pain. A free consultation is the simplest way to find out where you stand.
- How long do I have to file a claim in California?
- Most injury lawsuits must be filed within two years (Code of Civil Procedure 335.1). Claims against a public entity usually need a written claim within six months (Government Code 911.2). Medical malpractice has shorter rules, generally one year from discovery and no more than three years from the injury (Code of Civil Procedure 340.5). Different rules can apply to minors.
- What kinds of damages can be recovered?
- Economic damages, such as medical bills, future care and lost earnings, and non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering and emotional distress. Medical malpractice cases have legal limits on non-economic damages (Civil Code 3333.2). Every case is different, and no particular result can be promised.
- How do injury lawyers charge?
- Many work on a contingency fee, a percentage of any recovery. In California the agreement must be in writing and must say the fee is not set by law and is negotiable, and how costs are handled (Business and Professions Code 6147). Ask whether you would owe costs if there is no recovery. The first consultation is free.
- A dog bit me. Is the owner responsible?
- California makes a dog's owner liable for bites that happen in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property, even if the dog never bit anyone before (Civil Code 3342).
- Will my case go to trial?
- Many injury claims are resolved through negotiation or mediation, but some go to trial. No one can promise how a case will end.
- How do I pay medical bills while my claim is pending?
- Health insurance, MedPay coverage on an auto policy, or treatment on a lien (the provider is paid from any recovery) are common options. Liens and reimbursement claims can affect what you take home, so keep track of them.
- Can I talk to someone in Spanish?
- Yes. Se habla español: Spanish-speaking staff are available at the sponsoring firm, Apollo Law Group. Our guides and case-review form are also available in Spanish.
General information about California law, not legal advice.
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