Nobody plans for an accident, so most people are making it up as they go when one happens. A little preparation makes the next few weeks much easier. Here's what we tell our own customers.
First, make sure everyone is safe. If anyone is hurt, call 911. If the cars can be moved and nobody is injured, pull out of traffic, turn on your hazard lights and stay out of the lanes.
Exchange information with the other driver: name, phone number, driver's license, license plate, and insurance company and policy number. Stay polite and stick to facts — don't argue about who caused it, and don't apologize in a way that sounds like admitting fault.
Take more photos than you think you need. Photograph both cars from several angles, the damage up close, the other car's plate, the street and any skid marks or debris. If there are witnesses, get their names and numbers. In California you also have to report a crash to the DMV within 10 days if anyone was injured or property damage is over $1,000.
Call your insurance company as soon as you can and open a claim. They'll give you a claim number — keep it handy, because the body shop will need it.
Then choose where your car will be repaired. Your insurer may suggest a shop, but in California the choice is yours. Bring the car to a shop you trust for a free estimate, and let them work with your adjuster.
At Auto PRO Collision we photograph and document the damage, write the estimate, send it to your insurer and handle the back-and-forth with your adjuster. We also take 50% off your deductible on qualifying collision repairs. Call (916) 675-7776 or bring your car to 1911 G St in Downtown Sacramento.