A car accident is stressful — but your next steps are critical. What you do in the first hours and days after a collision can protect your health, your rights, and your wallet.
🚨 Step 1: Safety First
Your immediate priority is safety:
- 🚗Move to a safe area away from traffic if possible
- 🩺Check yourself and passengers for injuries
- 📞Call 911 if anyone is hurt or there's significant damage
📸 Step 2: Collect Evidence
Documentation is essential for insurance claims and repairs:
- 📷Take photos of all vehicle damage from multiple angles
- 📍Record the exact location and road conditions
- 🤝Exchange insurance and contact information with other parties
📞 Step 3: Contact Your Insurance
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. But here's the key: do NOT accept the first repair suggestion immediately. You have the right to compare options.
⚖️ Step 4: Know Your Rights
California law protects your right to choose any repair shop — your insurer cannot force you to use their preferred network.
You are not required to use insurer-selected shops. The choice is legally yours.
🧠 Step 5: Compare Repair Options
Choose a trusted BAR-licensed shop verified by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. Compare multiple estimates to ensure fair pricing and quality work.
🚀 Get Free Estimates
Compare multiple verified shops in minutes. Submit your damage details once and let BAR-licensed shops compete for your business.
Get Free Estimates