Getting into a car accident is stressful enough — then comes the paperwork. If you've never filed an auto insurance claim before, the process can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through every step, from the moment of impact to picking up your repaired vehicle.
Good news for Los Angeles drivers: California law gives you strong protections when dealing with insurance companies — including the right to choose your own repair shop. More on that below.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Collision
Stay Safe & Call 911 if Needed
Move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 if anyone is injured or if there is significant property damage. A police report strengthens your insurance claim — in LA, always request one even for minor accidents.
Document Everything at the Scene
Take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles, the license plates, the surrounding area, any visible damage, and road conditions. Get the other driver's name, phone, insurance company, policy number, and driver's license number.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer as soon as possible — most policies require prompt notification. Stick to the facts: date, time, location, and what happened. Avoid admitting fault at this stage, even if you feel responsible.
Choose Your Own Repair Shop
Your insurer may recommend a "preferred" or "direct repair" shop. Under California law (Insurance Code §758.5), you have the legal right to choose any licensed repair facility you prefer. Your insurer cannot deny your claim simply because you chose a different shop.
Get an Estimate
Take your vehicle to your chosen shop for a written estimate. At Genesis Collision Center, estimates are always free. We document all damage thoroughly — which is critical when negotiating with the adjuster.
Work with the Adjuster
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage. They may inspect the car in person or review photos. Their initial estimate may be lower than the shop's — this is common and negotiable. A good shop will handle this communication for you.
Approve the Repair & Arrange Rental
Once the claim is approved, authorize the repairs in writing. If your policy includes rental coverage, your shop can help coordinate a rental car through the claim so you stay mobile during repairs.
Review the Repair & Close the Claim
When your vehicle is ready, inspect it carefully before signing off. Check paint match, panel alignment, and all repaired areas. Once you're satisfied, the claim is closed and your deductible (if applicable) is paid to the shop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to report. Most policies have a reporting window — delays can complicate or void your claim.
- Accepting the first estimate without question. Adjusters sometimes underprice repairs. Your shop should advocate on your behalf.
- Posting about the accident on social media. Insurance companies monitor public posts and can use them against you.
- Signing a release too quickly. Don't sign anything that releases the insurer from further liability until all damage has been properly assessed.
- Skipping the rental car coordination. If your policy covers it, use it — the shop can arrange it at no extra hassle to you.
At-Fault vs. Not-At-Fault: What's the Difference?
California is a fault-based (or "tort") state — meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages. Here's how it affects your claim:
- Not at fault: You file a third-party claim with the other driver's insurance. You typically pay nothing out of pocket.
- At fault: Your own collision coverage pays for your vehicle repairs, minus your deductible.
- Shared fault: California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule — you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your payout is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Hit by uninsured driver: File under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage if you have it.
We handle it for you. At Genesis Collision Center, our team manages the entire claims process — paperwork, adjuster communication, rental coordination — so you don't have to. Call us and we'll walk you through every step.
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