How to Work With an Accident Attorney in Los Angeles, California After a Crash

The first time I was involved in a serious car crash in Los Angeles, I didn’t know what to do next. My car was totaled, my shoulder was injured, and the insurance company wasn’t exactly on my side. That experience taught me something important: hiring the right accident attorney in Los Angeles can make all the difference in your recovery—both physically and financially.

If you’ve just been in a crash, here’s my firsthand guide on how to work with an accident attorney in Los Angeles, California. Trust me, the steps you take in the days following your accident will impact your entire case.

Step 1: Prioritize Your Health First

Before you even think about calling a lawyer, make sure you get medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to be examined by a doctor. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries take time to show up—like whiplash or internal trauma.

Your medical records will also be key evidence for your case later. Be honest with your doctor and make sure everything is documented properly. This isn’t just about a potential settlement—it’s about protecting your long-term health.

Step 2: Collect Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)

If you’re physically able and it’s safe to do so, start collecting evidence at the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, the damage, license plates, the location, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information.

When I was rear-ended on Sunset Boulevard, a kind bystander helped me take pictures because I was too shaken up. Those photos were incredibly helpful when my attorney started building the case.

Step 3: Avoid Speaking to the Insurance Company Alone

I learned this the hard way: the insurance adjuster is not your friend. Their job is to pay out as little as possible. When they first called me, I thought I was being helpful by giving them all the details. But later, my attorney told me I had unknowingly weakened my claim.

You have the right to legal representation before talking to the insurance company. In fact, once you hire a personal injury attorney, they’ll handle all communication on your behalf. That alone removes a massive burden from your shoulders.

Step 4: Research and Choose the Right Attorney

Not all attorneys are the same. In Los Angeles, there are hundreds of personal injury lawyers, but I wanted someone who knew the system inside and out—and someone who wouldn’t treat me like just another file number.

That’s when I found Rod Armande Law. From the first consultation, they were transparent, professional, and genuinely concerned about my recovery. They explained what to expect, laid out a timeline, and didn’t charge me unless we won.

When choosing your attorney, look for:

• Experience in accident cases
• Clear communication
• No upfront fees (contingency-based)
• Local knowledge of L.A. courts and traffic laws
• Positive client reviews

Don’t rush this step. Schedule a few free consultations and trust your gut. You’ll be working closely with this person for months.

Step 5: Be Honest and Share Everything

Once you’ve hired your attorney, be completely open. Tell them everything about the crash, even if you think it might hurt your case. They’re on your side, and they can only help if they have the full picture.

Rod Armande Law asked for all my records—medical, police reports, photos, bills—and encouraged me to keep a recovery journal. I also gave them a timeline of the accident and how it affected my day-to-day life. This helped them build a stronger, more personal case.

Step 6: Follow Your Doctor’s Orders and Document Recovery

Your actions after the crash matter just as much as what happened during it. Make sure you go to all follow-up appointments, attend physical therapy, and stick to your treatment plan. If you skip visits or go against medical advice, it could be used against you in your claim.

Also, keep track of how the injury impacts your life. For me, I documented how I couldn’t sleep, missed work, had to cancel a trip, and even struggled with basic chores. All of this helped paint a full picture of how the crash disrupted my life.

Step 7: Stay Patient, but Stay Informed

Accident cases take time—sometimes months, occasionally more. A good attorney will keep you in the loop and handle negotiations with the insurance company, but don’t hesitate to ask questions or request updates.

Rod Armande Law did a great job of keeping me updated. Every few weeks, they’d call or email to explain where things stood. That gave me peace of mind during a pretty stressful chapter of my life.

Step 8: Know What to Expect in Settlement Talks

Most personal injury cases settle before trial. When your attorney starts negotiating with the insurance company, they’ll base their demand on your medical expenses, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and future costs.

You might get an initial offer that seems low—and it probably is. Don’t panic. That’s normal. Trust your attorney’s advice. They know how to push for a better offer or prepare for trial if needed.

In my case, the first offer was laughably low. But my attorney at Rod Armande Law held firm, negotiated strategically, and got me a settlement that truly reflected what I went through.

Final Thoughts: Empower Yourself After a Crash

Getting into an accident in Los Angeles is scary and overwhelming. But you don’t have to go through it alone. The right attorney can help you take back control, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

I didn’t just hire a lawyer—I partnered with a team that genuinely cared. Rod Armande Law not only got me a fair settlement, but they also gave me the confidence to focus on healing.

If you’re in a similar situation, don’t wait. Get medical help, protect your rights, and reach out to a trusted accident attorney in Los Angeles. It could be the most important decision you make after a crash.