California after-accident guide
A practical checklist for the scene, the paperwork, and the repair conversation—using current California government guidance.
Safety firstCall 911 for injuries or emergencies
Official sourcesCalifornia DMV and Department of Insurance
Clear boundaryGeneral information, not legal advice
A calmer sequence
This checklist cannot replace instructions from emergency personnel, law enforcement, an insurer, an attorney, or a government agency. Use the linked official sources for current requirements.
Stop immediately and move the vehicle only if it is safe to do so. Call 911 when someone is injured or there is an immediate emergency. Contact law enforcement and follow the instructions given for the location and circumstances.
Do not put yourself in traffic or another unsafe position to take photographs or inspect damage. People and scene safety come before documenting the vehicle.
Gather the other driver's name, contact information, driver's license, vehicle plate, and insurance information. Record the location, time, vehicle positions, visible damage, and witness details when it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Take wider photographs that show the scene and closer photographs of the damaged areas. Keep copies of police information, towing paperwork, insurance correspondence, estimates, and repair documents together.
The California Department of Insurance recommends promptly notifying your insurance agent or company after an accident. Read your policy and ask the insurer to explain any coverage, deductible, inspection, towing, storage, or rental questions you do not understand.
Avoid signing statements about fault or promising payment at the scene. Be cautious with unsolicited referrals and confirm who you are speaking with before sharing documents or authorizing work.
California DMV says an SR-1 report must be submitted within 10 days when anyone is injured or killed, or when property damage exceeds $1,000. The requirement applies regardless of fault and is separate from reports made to police, CHP, or an insurance company.
Use the official DMV instructions and form for the current reporting requirements. Friendly Collision Center cannot determine whether a legal filing is required for your situation.
California's Department of Insurance states that an insurer cannot require your automobile to be repaired at a specific shop. You may seek an independent estimate from a registered auto body repair shop, even when pursuing an insurance claim.
Before authorizing work, review the written estimate and ask which repairs, labor, and parts are included. Coverage and insurer approval are separate questions that should be confirmed with the insurer handling the claim.
Have the vehicle's year, make, model, location, drivability, visible damage, photos, and available claim information ready. Tell the shop whether towing or transportation is an immediate concern.
Friendly Collision Center offers free estimates. Free towing is available for qualifying repairs, and a complimentary rental may be available for qualifying repairs subject to availability. Eligibility, repair scope, timing, pricing, parts, and insurance coverage must be confirmed for the specific vehicle.
Verify the details
Requirements and insurance procedures can change. These government pages—not Friendly Collision Center—are the controlling sources for the guidance summarized above.
When you are ready to discuss the vehicle
Friendly Collision Center is located at 3700 Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles and offers free estimates. Call with the vehicle location, drivability, visible damage, photos, and available claim information.