What constitutes a general appearance in a motion for personal injury?

Appeal have described the scope of actions in the litigation process which constitute a general appearance as follows: 'A general appearance occurs where a party, either directly or through counsel, participates in an action in some manner which recognizes the authority of the court to proceed. It does not require any formal or technical act. [Citations.] 'If the defendant "raises any other question, or asks for any relief which can only be granted upon the hypothesis that the court has jurisdiction of his person, his appearance is general.' " ' " (Dial 800 v. Fesbinder (2004) 118 Cal.App.4th 32, 52-53, italics omitted.)