After a car accident in Santa Clara, make sure everyone is safe, call 911 if anyone is hurt, photograph everything, exchange information, and report the crash to your insurer. California also requires a DMV report within 10 days if there was injury or more than $1,000 in damage.
Key takeaways
- Safety first, then photos, then information.
- Report to the DMV within 10 days when required.
- You choose the repair shop. Get an estimate before deciding on a claim.
At the scene
Turn on hazards, move to the shoulder or a parking lot if the car is drivable, and check for injuries. On busy roads like El Camino Real, stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on if you cannot get to a safe spot. Call 911 when there is injury, blocked traffic or suspected impairment.
What to photograph
Take wide shots of both cars and the road, close-ups of damage, license plates, the other driver's insurance card and the road signs nearby. Photograph the weather and any skid marks. Time-stamped photos make later claims easier. Add a short video if parts are moving or rubbing.
Information to exchange
Get the other driver's name, phone, license number, plate and insurance company and policy number. Record the names of witnesses. Avoid apologizing or guessing about fault. Stick to facts. If a police officer comes, ask how to get the report.
The 10-day DMV rule
California requires a written report to the DMV within 10 days of an accident that caused injury, death or more than $1,000 in property damage. The form is SR 1. Your insurer or an attorney can help you file it. Missing the deadline can risk your license.
Calling your insurer and a body shop
Report the accident to your insurer promptly. Ask what your coverage includes, how rentals work and how the claim will be handled. Then get a written estimate from a shop of your choice. You are not required to use the shop your insurer suggests. A walk-in estimate at International Auto Center costs nothing, and photos can be sent in advance.
After the first week
Keep every document: the police report, claim numbers, estimates, repair invoices and rental receipts. If symptoms such as neck or back pain develop days later, see a doctor and tell your insurer. Watch for steering pull or noises that start after the crash and tell your shop.
Get a free estimate in Santa Clara
Questions about insurance claims? Read our Insurance Claims page, call (408) 243-2530, or send photos through the estimate form. International Auto Center Body Shop, 1499 Lincoln St, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to call the police for a minor accident?
Call if anyone is hurt, the roadway is blocked or the other driver is uncooperative. Otherwise a report may still help your claim.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
Check whether you have uninsured motorist coverage and tell your insurer right away.
Should I move my car after a collision?
If it is drivable and in a dangerous spot, move it to safety after taking photos if you can.
Can I drive my car after an accident?
If lights, steering or brakes are affected or parts are hanging, do not drive. Call a tow.
Related reading
Sources
- California DMV, Reporting a traffic accident (SR 1)
- California Legislature, Insurance Code section 758.5 (choice of repair shop)