Car Accidents Are Stressful — Filing a Claim Doesn’t Have to Be

Getting into a car accident in Los Angeles is an unfortunately common experience. With millions of vehicles on LA’s freeways and city streets every day, collisions happen more often than anyone would like. The good news? Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right knowledge and a trusted auto body shop on your side, you can navigate the process smoothly and get your car repaired quickly.

At Quest Auto Center, we’ve helped thousands of Los Angeles drivers through the insurance claims process. Here’s our complete guide to filing a claim after a car accident.

Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety

Before thinking about insurance or repairs, make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately. Move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe to do so, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Step 2: Document the Accident Scene

Thorough documentation is critical for a successful insurance claim. While still at the scene, gather the following:

• Photos of all vehicles involved from multiple angles
• Photos of the accident scene, including road conditions and traffic signs
• The other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information
• Contact information for any witnesses
• The police report number (if officers respond to the scene)
• Notes about weather, time of day, and how the accident occurred

Step 3: File a Police Report

In Los Angeles, you should file a police report for any accident involving injuries or significant property damage. If the police don’t come to the scene, you can file a report at your local LAPD station or online through the California Highway Patrol (CHP) website. A police report provides an official record of the accident, which can be invaluable during the claims process.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible — ideally within 24 hours. Most major insurers have 24/7 claims hotlines and mobile apps that make it easy to start a claim. When you call, have your documentation ready and provide a factual account of what happened. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.

Step 5: Choose Your Auto Body Shop

Here’s something many drivers don’t realize: you have the legal right to choose your own auto body shop in California. Your insurance company may suggest a “preferred” shop, but you are not obligated to use it. Choosing a trusted, certified shop like Quest Auto Center can make all the difference in the quality of your repair.

Step 6: Get a Repair Estimate

Bring your vehicle to Quest Auto Center for a free, detailed repair estimate. Our team will thoroughly inspect your vehicle, document all damage (including hidden damage that may not be visible), and provide a comprehensive estimate. We’ll also work directly with your insurance adjuster to ensure the estimate covers all necessary repairs.

Step 7: Let Quest Handle the Paperwork

This is where Quest Auto Center truly shines. Our experienced team handles the entire claims process on your behalf, including:

• Communicating directly with your insurance adjuster
• Submitting repair estimates and supplemental claims
• Coordinating inspection appointments
• Negotiating to ensure all damage is covered
• Arranging rental car assistance when available
• Keeping you updated throughout the entire process

We work with all major insurance companies, so no matter who your provider is, we’ve got you covered. Learn more about our insurance claims assistance.

Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, we’ve seen drivers make costly mistakes during the claims process. Here’s what to watch out for:

Accepting the First Estimate Without Question

Insurance adjusters may initially underestimate the cost of repairs. Hidden damage — such as structural issues or internal mechanical problems — often isn’t discovered until the vehicle is disassembled. At Quest, we submit supplemental claims when additional damage is found, ensuring everything is properly repaired.

Waiting Too Long to File

Most insurance policies have deadlines for filing claims. Don’t delay — contact your insurer promptly and bring your vehicle to Quest Auto Center for an estimate as soon as possible.

Using an Unqualified Shop

Choosing the cheapest shop can cost you more in the long run. Poor-quality repairs can lead to safety issues, reduced vehicle value, and problems down the road. Always choose an I-CAR certified shop like Quest Auto Center.

What If the Other Driver Is at Fault?

If the other driver caused the accident, you can file a claim against their insurance (a “third-party claim”). You can also file with your own insurer and let them pursue reimbursement through subrogation. Either way, Quest Auto Center works with all parties to ensure your vehicle is repaired properly and promptly.

Get Back on the Road with Confidence

Filing an insurance claim after a car accident in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Quest Auto Center as your repair partner, you have a team of experts handling every detail — from the initial estimate to the final quality inspection. We’ll get your car looking and driving like new, backed by our lifetime warranty.