What to Do After a Car Accident in Modesto, CA

Step 1 — Check for Injuries First

Before you worry about your vehicle, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain. Injuries from collisions often do not present symptoms until hours or days later. If the collision was minor and everyone appears uninjured, move vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so.

Step 2 — Call the Police

In California, you are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. In Modesto, call the Modesto Police Department at (209) 552-2470 for non-emergency collisions, or 911 for emergencies. A police report creates an official record of the accident that is essential when filing an insurance claim. Even if the other driver asks you not to involve the police, always file a report.

Step 3 — Document Everything at the Scene

While you wait for police, use your phone to photograph and document everything. Capture all vehicles involved from every angle, including license plates and VIN numbers. Document the accident scene, including road conditions and skid marks, as well as weather and lighting conditions. Don't forget to photograph the other driver's license and insurance card. Collect witness names and contact information, and note the responding officer's name and badge number. The more documentation you have, the stronger your insurance claim will be.

Step 4 — Exchange Information Correctly

California law requires you to exchange your full name and contact information, driver's license number, vehicle registration information, and insurance company name and policy number with the other driver. Be polite but do not admit fault, apologize, or make any statements about what happened. Anything you say at the scene can be used against you when determining liability.

Step 5 — Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible — ideally the same day. Most insurers have 24-hour claims lines. Report the basic facts: when and where the accident occurred, the vehicles involved, and whether anyone was injured. You are required to report accidents to your insurer even if you do not plan to file a claim and even if the accident was not your fault.

Step 6 — Know Your California Rights When Choosing a Body Shop

Under California Insurance Code Section 758.5, you have the legal right to choose any licensed auto body shop for your collision repair, regardless of what your insurance company tells you. Your insurer may direct you to one of their preferred shops, but you are not required to use them. You are entitled to choose any licensed body shop, have your vehicle repaired to pre-accident condition, and have your insurer cover the full cost of reasonable repairs at the shop you select.

At Pabco Precision Auto Body, we work directly with all insurance companies. We handle adjuster communication, submit supplements for any additional damage found during repair, and fight for the full scope of repairs your vehicle needs. You choose the shop — we handle the rest.

Step 7 — Get a Professional Damage Assessment

Even if your vehicle looks fine after an accident, hidden damage is extremely common. Frame damage, suspension issues, and internal structural damage are often invisible until a certified technician performs a proper inspection. At Pabco Precision Auto Body, our I-CAR certified estimator identifies all visible and hidden damage. We provide a detailed written estimate at no charge — walk-ins are always welcome, no appointment needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After an Accident in Modesto

Leaving the Scene

California law requires you to remain at the accident scene. Leaving can result in criminal charges regardless of fault.

Admitting Fault at the Scene

Never say "I'm sorry" or make any statement that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

Waiting Too Long to Seek Medical Attention

If you feel any pain in the days after an accident, see a doctor immediately.

Accepting a Quick Settlement

Do not accept any settlement before the full extent of vehicle damage and injuries are known.

Driving a Damaged Vehicle

Always get a professional inspection before driving a vehicle involved in a significant collision.

Accidents Happen — Pabco Is Here When They Do

If you have been in a collision anywhere in Modesto or Stanislaus County, Pabco Precision Auto Body is ready to help. Our I-CAR certified team has been restoring vehicles to factory condition since 2006. All insurance companies accepted. Free estimates always. Walk-ins welcome. Call us at (209) 524-6260 or stop by our shop at 1400 N. 9th Street, Modesto, CA 95350 — Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

For more information, check out our services at Pabco Precision Auto Body.