What to Do in the First 72 Hours After a Personal Injury

Car accidents can cause devastating damage, injuries, lost wages, and even unplanned medical expenses. With that said, the…

Jul 24, 2026

Car accidents can cause devastating damage, injuries, lost wages, and even unplanned medical expenses. With that said, the first few days following a collision can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know the right steps to take. At the Jingozian Law Group, we believe that the first 72 hours after a car accident are critical in creating a link between your injuries and the crash, as well as protecting your health. Our personal injury lawyers work tirelessly within this time frame to gather evidence and build a solid case. If you are unsure about what to do after a personal injury, here are the important steps you should take.

Seek Medical Attention

As stated, car collisions can cause serious injuries that require professional medical attention. When you are injured following a crash, call an ambulance or go to the nearest hospital if possible. Your well-being is critical to the success of the personal injury claim, and immediate medical exams and treatments can help. During the check-up, tell the doctor about all of your injuries and other symptoms, even if they seem minor. Additionally, sharing pertinent information about your medical history can help physicians determine if the accident worsened your condition. A personal injury attorney in Canoga Park, CA relies on detailed medical records as evidence if questions about your condition after the accident arise later on.

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Show When Your Symptoms Started

A common mistake accident victims make is assuming that tracking symptoms is just for their doctor’s reference. However, this shouldn’t be the case, as tracking symptoms helps provide more evidence if insurance companies claim you had similar symptoms before the car accident. Write down when you first experienced discomfort, and ensure that your medical records have that information. The personal injury lawyer may also suggest providing your health records before the collision to establish a clear timeline.

Gather Evidence of the Accident

Did you know that the longer you delay, the more likely evidence disappears? This makes the first 72 hours after a car accident critical in strengthening your claim. If possible, take photos of vehicle damage and jot down witness statements. In the case of severe injuries, leave evidence collection to a reputable truck accident attorney. Unlike untrained individuals, legal professionals go beyond basic statements and photos. A lawyer can obtain dashcam footage, police reports, and even file for spoliation to stop the other parties from destroying evidence. Depending on your insurance company, you may need a medicolegal report or other relevant medical documentation to support your claim. By presenting these records when filing a claim, personal injury lawyers show the severity of the crash and strengthen your case.

Get Help Processing Your Insurance Claim

The reality is that insurance companies are always looking to make money. Even if it means finding ways to deny claims or pay the lowest amount. These companies focus on inconsistencies, mistakes, and missing information that can show you didn’t sustain injuries during the car accident. However, working with a reputable personal injury attorney can ensure every aspect of your insurance claim is handled professionally while you focus on recovery. You don’t have to worry about being thorough while in a lot of pain or dealing with non-compliant insurance companies.

After a car accident, what you do in the first 72 hours can make a big difference in your recovery and insurance claim. By following these helpful tips and consulting a trusted truck accident attorney, you can navigate the process smoothly and get the justice you deserve. Contact Jingozian Law Group to schedule a consultation with our legal team and learn more about our personal injury claim services.