What to have ready
- Date, time and location of the accident
- The other driver's name, insurance and policy number
- Photos of the damage and the scene
- A police report number, if there is one
- Where your car is right now
Your insurance or theirs?
If the other driver was at fault, you can file a third-party claim with their insurer. You can also file with your own insurance if you have collision coverage — you'll pay your deductible, and your insurer will try to recover it from the other driver's company. Going through your own policy is often faster when fault is disputed.
The inspection and estimate
The insurance company will either send an appraiser, ask for photos, or let the body shop write the estimate. Insurers and shops use the same estimating systems, so the shop's estimate can be reviewed line by line.
Supplements are normal
Hidden damage behind the bumper or inside the door is common. Once the car is taken apart, the shop documents the extra damage with photos and asks the insurer for a supplement. This is a normal part of almost every collision repair — not a sign that something went wrong.
California deadlines insurers must follow
California regulations (10 CCR § 2695.5 and § 2695.7) generally require an insurer to acknowledge your claim within 15 days, accept or deny it within 40 days after receiving proof of claim, and pay within 30 days of acceptance. If a claim stalls, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance.
How a good shop helps
At NewGen Auto Repair we write the estimate, send photos to the adjuster, request supplements and keep calling until the claim is approved. You focus on getting back to normal.
FAQ
Should I file with my insurance or the other driver's?
If fault is clear and the other driver's insurer is responsive, a third-party claim avoids your deductible. If fault is disputed or the other insurer is slow, using your own collision coverage is usually faster.
What is a claim number and why do I need it?
It's the reference your insurer uses for your case. The body shop needs it to send the estimate and photos to the right adjuster.
This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Rules and policies change — check your policy and the official source, or ask us.