The holiday season is over, and the new year has begun. If you were injured in an accident in late 2025 here in California, you might be wondering what comes next. January can feel like a clean slate, and it’s the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your health and legal rights are protected.
Moving forward after an accident takes careful attention. Here are five essential things you should focus on this month:
1. Prioritize Your Medical Treatment
Even if you’re starting to feel better, January is not the time to stop going to your doctor or physical therapy appointments. Consistency in your medical care is crucial for two main reasons. First, your full recovery depends on it. Second, it creates a clear, documented record of your injuries, pain, and the necessity of treatment. Insurance companies often look for gaps in treatment to argue that your injury wasn't as severe as you claim. Keep all appointments and follow your doctor's plan diligently.
2. Organize and Update Your Documents
Take a dedicated hour this month to get all your accident-related paperwork in order. This includes:
Medical bills and receipts.
Police or accident reports.
Correspondence from insurance companies.
Records of lost wages or time missed from work.
It's helpful to create a dedicated digital folder and a physical file. The more organized you are, the less stress you'll have later, and the easier it will be to share information with your legal team.
3. Track Your Pain and Daily Life
Start keeping a pain journal or log if you haven't already done so. Jot down a few sentences each day about:
The level of pain you’re experiencing (on a scale of 1-10).
How your injuries are affecting simple daily tasks (like sleeping, cooking, or driving).
Any activities you've had to stop or modify due to your injury.
This personal account is a powerful tool. It puts a human face on your medical records and helps illustrate the true impact the accident has had on your quality of life.
4. Review the Statute of Limitations
In California, there are strict deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. For most personal injury cases, the deadline is two years from the date of the injury. Since your accident was in late 2025, you are still well within this window, but it's vital to know your specific deadline. Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to confirm the exact date and ensure no critical deadlines are missed, which could bar you from ever recovering compensation.
5. Consult with a Local Personal Injury Attorney
Perhaps the most important step you can take in January is to speak with a personal injury law firm that understands California law and the local courts. An experienced attorney can take over the stressful negotiations with insurance companies, investigate your case, and work to secure the full compensation you deserve. You shouldn't have to navigate this complex process alone.
If you were hurt in an accident last year, start the new year with clarity and confidence. The team at JRG Attorneys At Law is here to serve our community and provide the professional, trustworthy guidance you need.
Don't delay—call us today at (831) 228-5619 for a free consultation.