What To Do After an Accident
Stay calm and follow these steps to protect yourself, your claim and your car.
Stay safe
Move to a safe location if you can, turn on your hazard lights and check everyone for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the vehicles are blocking traffic.
Call the police
A police report helps your insurance claim. Get the officer's name, badge number and report number.
Exchange information
Get the other driver's name, phone number, driver's license, license plate, insurance company and policy number. Don't admit fault — just stick to the facts.
Document everything
Take photos of all vehicles from several angles, the scene, road conditions, traffic signs and any injuries. Write down names and phone numbers of witnesses.
Call your insurance company
Report the accident as soon as possible and get a claim number.
Choose your repair shop
California law gives you the right to choose where your car is repaired. Your insurance company may recommend a shop, but you are never required to use it. Choose a shop you trust — like Number One Collision Center.
Get a free estimate
Send us photos with our online estimate form or stop by the shop. We work directly with your insurer, and can arrange towing and a rental car so you're back on the road quickly.
Get your free estimate in minutes
Snap a few photos of the damage with your phone and send them to us — we'll get back to you within one business day.