Accident Management Guide

A step-by-step protocol for protecting yourself, documenting the scene, and asserting your legal rights in California after a vehicle collision.

A car accident is stressful even when nobody's hurt. This step-by-step guide walks you through the seven phases of handling an accident in California — from securing the scene to tracking your repair — including the legal rights most drivers never learn about until it's too late.

Phase 01 — Ensure Safety

What should I do in the first minutes after an accident?

Move your vehicle to safety if possible. Turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Do not exit your vehicle on a busy highway if it is unsafe to do so.

Phase 02 — Document Everything

What should I photograph at the accident scene?

Take extensive photos before moving vehicles if safe. Capture all angles of the damage, license plates of all involved vehicles, and surrounding road conditions. Collect names, contact info, and insurance details from other drivers.

Phase 03 — Police Report

When do I need a police report in California?

File a police report, even for minor accidents. An official report provides critical documentation for insurance claims and legal protection. Obtain the police report number before leaving the scene.

Phase 04 — Insurance Notification

How and when do I notify my insurance company?

Notify your insurance company promptly. Provide factual details of the incident but DO NOT admit fault. Stick to the facts: time, location, vehicles involved, and the police report number.

Phase 05 — Know Your Rights

Can my insurance company choose my repair shop?

California Law § 758.5: Under California law, you have the absolute right to choose the repair shop where your vehicle is fixed. Insurance companies cannot require you to use their “preferred” network shops.

Insurance “preferred” shops often work for the insurer, not you, prioritizing cheap fixes over safety. You have the right to demand a shop that advocates for you.

Phase 06 — Choose Your Shop

How do I pick a trustworthy collision repair shop?

Don’t let insurance steer you. You choose. Local Collision Repair fights for OEM parts and follows strict manufacturer repair procedures to ensure your vehicle’s safety systems operate correctly.

Phase 07 — Track Your Repair

How do I stay informed during the repair?

Once at Local Collision Repair, you get a tracking link within 24 hours. Monitor real-time updates, photos, and estimated completion times. No black hole — total transparency.