The Modern Report · Essential guide
After an accident in California: the 10-minute checklist
The first minutes after a crash decide how smooth the next two weeks go. Here's exactly what to do — from the team that sees the aftermath every day.
Minute 1–2: Safety first
Turn on hazards. If the cars are drivable and you're on a live lane, move to the shoulder or a parking lot — in California it's legal and expected for minor collisions. Check everyone for injuries; if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked, call 911 first and skip everything below.
Minute 3–5: Photograph everything
Before the cars move (if safe): wide shots of both cars showing the whole scene, close-ups of every damaged panel, the other car's license plate, the street signs or landmarks, and any skid marks or debris. Photos settle arguments that words start. Twenty photos is not too many.
Minute 5–8: Exchange information — carefully
Get their name, phone, driver's license number, plate, insurance company and policy number. Give the same. Be polite — and don't discuss fault. Even "I'm sorry" gets quoted later. Fault is decided by insurance companies from evidence, not by conversations on the shoulder.
Minute 8–10: The two calls
First, your insurance company (or their app) — report the accident with your photos while everything is fresh. Second, if the car can't drive safely: arrange a tow. You may tell the tow operator where the car goes — which brings us to the right most drivers don't know they have.
Your right in California: you choose the repair shop
Your insurance company can recommend a shop. They cannot require one. Under California law, the choice of repair facility is yours — and the shop you choose deals with your insurer directly, so the "recommended shop" convenience argument doesn't hold. Choose the shop you trust with your car; the paperwork follows either way.
What happens next
A good shop takes it from here: estimate, adjuster, parts, supplements for hidden damage, and a finish inspected before you get the keys. If you're in the West Valley, that's exactly what we do — free pre-estimates by photo, text, or walk-in.