Getting into a car accident is disorienting — even a minor fender bender leaves most people shaken. The problem is that the decisions you make in the first 30 minutes can significantly affect your safety, your insurance claim, and your ability to get your vehicle properly repaired.
Here's exactly what to do, step by step.
Step 1: Stop and Check for Injuries
If the collision is anything more than a very minor tap in a parking lot, stop immediately. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Don't try to assess how bad the accident is before you know everyone is okay.
If anyone is injured — even if they say they're fine — call 911. Adrenaline masks pain, and injuries like whiplash or internal trauma often don't present symptoms immediately.
Step 2: Move to Safety If Possible
If the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic, move them to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights. If the vehicles can't be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt on until emergency services arrive — standing on the side of a busy road is more dangerous than most people realize.
Step 3: Call the Police
In California, you're required to report any accident involving injury or property damage over $1,000 — which is almost every accident. Even if the other driver suggests you "handle it privately," file a police report. It protects you.
A police report creates an official record of what happened, who was involved, and what the scene looked like. Your insurance company will want it, and if the other party's story changes later, you'll need it.
Santa Rosa tip: For non-injury accidents, the SRPD may not respond in person. You can file a report at the SRPD station at 965 Sonoma Ave or online at the Sonoma County Sheriff's office.
Step 4: Exchange Information — But Don't Admit Fault
Exchange the following with every other driver involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver's license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and year
Also get the names and contact info of any witnesses. Important: Don't say "I'm sorry" or admit fault — even if you think you caused the accident. Fault is determined by insurance adjusters, not at the scene.
Step 5: Document Everything
Your phone's camera is your best tool right now. Photograph every vehicle involved from multiple angles, the damage up close, road conditions and traffic signs, the other driver's license and insurance card, and any injuries. The more documentation you have, the better protected you are.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer as soon as possible — most have 24/7 claim lines. If you have AAA, bring your vehicle directly to Marquis Auto Body — we're an AAA Direct Repair Program shop and work with AAA directly so you don't have to manage the back-and-forth.
Step 7: Choose a Certified Repair Shop
You have the right to choose your own repair shop in California — regardless of what your insurance company suggests. Choose a shop with certifications relevant to your vehicle, a lifetime warranty, and a track record you can verify.
Don't drive a vehicle with suspected frame or structural damage. If you're unsure whether it's safe, call us at (707) 544-5222 — we'll advise you or help arrange towing.
You don't have to use your insurer's recommended shop. That's your choice under California law. A certified shop with a lifetime warranty protects you better than one chosen for the insurer's cost savings.
What Marquis Auto Body Does From There
- Free written estimate — complete damage assessment at no charge
- Insurance coordination — we deal with your insurer directly (especially AAA)
- Certified repair — I-CAR Gold Class technicians, OEM-approved procedures
- Quality inspection — reviewed before delivery
- Lifetime warranty — you leave with it in hand