In the chaotic moments after a car crash, your instincts scream at you to do something. An injured person may be in the road, and the wrecked cars are blocking traffic. This creates two immediate, critical questions:
- Should I move the injured person to safety?
- Should I move my car out of the road?
The answers to these two questions are drastically different, and making the wrong choice can have permanent, life-altering consequences for the victim and significant legal consequences for you. This guide will provide the clear, simple rules you must follow at the scene of an accident in California.
The Golden Rule: Do NOT Move an Injured Person
Unless you are a trained medical professional, there is one clear and absolute rule: Do not move an injured person after a car accident.
Your well-meaning attempt to help could cause a catastrophic, irreversible injury.
- The “Why”: The Hidden Danger of Spinal Cord Injuries The force of a car crash can cause fractures in the vertebrae of the neck and back. The spinal cord, which is like a delicate electrical cable running through these vertebrae, may be bruised, pinched, or partially severed. At this stage, the person may still have a chance at recovery.
However, if you move them, a fractured vertebra can shift and completely sever the spinal cord. This can instantly turn a recoverable injury into permanent paralysis. An injured person may not feel pain due to shock and adrenaline and may say they feel “okay,” even with a severe spinal injury. - The ONLY Exception: Imminent, Life-Threatening Danger You should only ever attempt to move an injured person if leaving them in place poses an even greater, immediate threat to their life. This means situations like the vehicle is on fire, smoking heavily, or is in imminent danger of being struck by other high-speed traffic. In all other situations, the best way to help is to call 911 and wait for paramedics to arrive.
The Second Question: Should You Move Your Car After an Accident?
While you shouldn’t move a person, the rule for moving your vehicle is often the opposite. California law supports the “Steer It and Clear It” principle. If you are in a minor crash, you should move your vehicle out of the traffic lanes to a safe place, like the shoulder or a nearby side street.
This is crucial for preventing secondary accidents, which are often more severe than the initial crash. However, this only applies in specific situations. Here’s a quick reference guide:
| YES, Move Your Car IF… | NO, Do Not Move Your Car IF… |
| ✅ The accident is minor (e.g., a fender-bender). | ❌ Anyone has been seriously injured or killed. |
| ✅ No one has any obvious or serious injuries. | ❌ The vehicle is severely damaged and cannot be driven safely. |
| ✅ The vehicle is drivable and can be moved safely. | ❌ There are fluid leaks, smoke, or other fire hazards. |
| ✅ The car is creating a hazard for other traffic. | ❌ You are instructed not to by police or 911. |
When in doubt, wait for law enforcement to arrive and direct you.
Facing a Life-Altering Injury? Know the Potential Value of Your Claim.
In cases involving severe harm like a potential spinal cord injury, the lifetime costs for medical care and lost income can be astronomical. Our Settlement Calculator can help you begin to understand the full scope of damages in a catastrophic injury claim.
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A Record of Success in Complex Neurological Injury Cases: $285,000 Settlement
The consequences of a severe accident can last a lifetime. Our firm has deep experience representing clients with complex, permanent injuries that affect the nervous system and spinal cord. We represented a rideshare passenger who, after an accident, developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating neurological condition that causes chronic, severe pain. We built a powerful case detailing the permanent impact this injury would have on her life, securing a $285,000 settlement to provide for her future medical needs and compensate for her suffering.
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Frequently Asked Questions for an Accident Scene
We Handle Your Accident Claim So You Can Focus on Your Life
After an accident, contact the attorneys at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers. We handle many types of traffic injury claims, including car accidents with spinal cord injuries. We believe you should be able to focus on recovering from your accident while we handle the legal details.
We truly care about the people of California. Contact us today for a free online case evaluation.
