Hemet Car Accident Checklist
A simple, step-by-step checklist for what to do at the scene, after, and during your insurance claim. Designed to be printed, screenshotted, or saved to your phone before you ever need it.
If you are reading this before an accident, save it to your phone or print and put a copy in your glove box. If you're reading it right now after an accident, take a deep breath and follow the steps in order. Drive Auto Body is at (951) 268-3006 — call us anytime and we'll help walk you through it.
Before You Drive — Be Ready
Three things to keep in your glovebox or phone, today, before anything happens:
Step 1 · At the Scene (First 10 Minutes)
Step 2 · Document Everything
Your phone is the best documentation tool you have. Use it methodically — the more thorough you are now, the smoother your claim will be later.
Step 3 · Exchange Information
California law requires you to exchange the following with all other drivers involved:
Don't: apologize, admit fault, or accept/offer cash settlements at the scene. What seems like minor damage on the outside can hide thousands in structural damage. Stick to the facts.
Step 4 · After the Scene
Need Help Right Now?
Drive Auto Body in Hemet handles the entire process for you — tow coordination, insurance claim filing, supplement negotiations, and lifetime-warrantied repairs. Free estimates. $500 off your deductible with most policies.
Hemet Accident Checklist FAQ
Is this Hemet accident checklist free to print and share?
Yes. Drive Auto Body created this checklist as a free public resource. Print it, save it to your phone, share it with your family, or include it in your insurance binder. No login or email required.
Should I call the police after every accident in Hemet?
If anyone is injured, the vehicles can't be moved, the other driver is uncooperative, or there is property damage over $1,000, yes — call 911 or the Hemet Police non-emergency line at (951) 765-2400. For minor parking-lot fender benders with cooperative parties, exchanging insurance info may be enough — but a police report protects you in disputes.
What photos should I take at the scene?
Wide shots of the overall scene, close-ups of every dent and scratch, both license plates, the other driver's insurance card and license, road conditions (skid marks, traffic signals, lane markings), and any visible injuries. Modern smartphones automatically tag photos with time, date, and GPS — save these as part of your evidence.
Do I have to use my insurance company's preferred body shop?
No. California Insurance Code §758.5 gives you the right to choose any licensed body shop. Your insurance must cover the repair regardless of where you take it. See our deeper explainer on California's right-to-choose statute.
How fast should I report the accident to my insurance?
Most policies require prompt notification — typically within 24-72 hours. The faster you file, the faster the claim moves. Have your documentation ready: police report number, photos, and the other driver's information.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine?
Yes. Whiplash, concussions, and soft-tissue injuries often have delayed onset, sometimes appearing days later. Document any symptoms with a medical visit within a few days of the accident — it creates a paper trail that supports any future personal injury claim.
This page is a free public resource maintained by Drive Auto Body. Last updated 2026-05-01. We are not an insurance company and this is not legal advice — for binding legal questions, consult an attorney.