If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a car accident, the last thing you want to deal with is a drawn-out legal battle. Between medical appointments, lost wages, and insurance paperwork, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why many accident victims in California turn to a personal injury attorney to help navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Whether or not you decide to hire an attorney, these 10 key facts will help you understand how personal injury claims work and how to protect your rights every step of the way.

1. Time is Limited – Don’t Miss the Deadline

California law imposes a strict statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. If you miss this deadline, you may permanently lose your right to recover compensation.

Act quickly to preserve your legal options. The sooner you start the process, the stronger your case will be.

2. Contact an Attorney Before Speaking to Insurance Companies

One of the most common mistakes injury victims make is engaging directly with insurance adjusters or signing documents without legal advice. Even casual conversations can be used against you later.

Always consult a personal injury lawyer before giving recorded statements, accepting settlement offers, or signing any paperwork.

3. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor right away some symptoms take time to appear. Prompt treatment helps your recovery and also strengthens your injury claim by linking your injuries directly to the accident.

Be sure to keep all medical records, bills, and receipts. These documents will be essential when building your case.

4. Work With a “No Win, No Fee” Law Firm

Most reputable personal injury law firms, including Hillstone Law, work on a contingency fee basis meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. There are no upfront fees, and we only get paid when you do.

This approach ensures that we are fully aligned with your success and allows you to pursue justice without financial risk.

5. Hiring a Lawyer Can Increase Your Settlement

Statistics show that accident victims who hire legal representation recover significantly more compensation than those who go it alone. In fact, insurance payouts are typically over three times higher when a lawyer is involved.

Our attorneys at Hillstone Law know how to calculate the true value of your claim including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future damages and we fight to make sure you receive it.

6. Don’t Overlook Pain and Suffering

Your damages aren’t limited to physical injuries or financial losses. Emotional distress, anxiety, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible effects are also compensable.

We carefully document and quantify these non-economic damages to ensure you’re fairly compensated for the full impact of your accident.

7. Follow All Medical and Legal Advice

If your doctor recommends treatment, follow through. Failing to attend medical appointments or ignoring prescribed care can hurt your case and reduce your compensation.

Likewise, always listen to your attorney’s guidance. We’re here to protect your interests and help you avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your claim.

8. Keep All Case-Related Documents Organized

You’ll accumulate a lot of paperwork during your case medical bills, correspondence, receipts, reports, and emails. Store everything in a physical folder or organize it digitally in a clearly labeled email folder.

Having easy access to important documents will save time and avoid potential issues if additional evidence is needed later.

9. Be Careful About Social Media and Public Statements

Anything you post online can be used as evidence in your case. Avoid sharing photos, comments, or updates that could downplay your injuries or suggest you’re not in pain.

Let your attorney handle communication with third parties, and don’t minimize your suffering just to appear “tough” the court considers the full scope of your pain and emotional distress when determining compensation.

10. Be Patient – Some Personal Injury Cases Take Time

While some claims settle quickly, others take longer due to medical evaluations, liability disputes, or insurance delays. Our attorneys at Hillstone Law are prepared to go to trial if that’s what it takes to secure the best result.

Once your case settles, your check typically arrives within four to six weeks, but timelines can vary. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way and ensure no detail is overlooked.

Hillstone Law is Here to Fight for You

At Hillstone Law, we understand what you’re going through and we’re here to guide you through every stage of the personal injury process. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, slip and fall, or any other injury caused by someone else’s negligence, we’ll protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.