Whether you are visiting San Diego or you are a resident, being involved in an accident can be a traumatic and frightening experience. It's important to know what action you need to take if an accident occurs. In the state of California you must stop if the accident involves a moving or parked car, a pedestrian, or property. Failing to do so could result in a hit and run charge. After assessing the situation, call the police and 911 for an ambulance if medical assistance is needed.
Be prepared to provide the following information:
- your driver's license
- car license and registration
- name and address of your insurance company
Make sure that you get the same information from the other driver as well as the names and addresses of any witnesses to the incident. Write down the name and badge number of any officers that arrive at the scene and make sure that you will be provided with a copy of the accident report. Report the accident to your insurance company ASAP.
Personal safety first
Your safety and the safety of the other parties involved in the accident should be the number one priority after you've had a car accident. The next step is getting through the process of dealing with your insurance company and finding a reliable, trustworthy repair shop to do the repair work. If the damage to your vehicle has rendered it unsafe to drive, it will need to be towed from the scene. Ask your insurance company to to call a trusted San Diego towing service or, if you're a member of AAA, you have the option of calling their towing service as well.
Many insurance companies have affiliations with local repair shops to handle insurance claims, but you are under no obligation to deal with them. You have the option of choosing your own repair shop and have your insurer negotiate for all repair work. Mostly likely, the towing service will tow your vehicle to their storage facility, so arrangements will need to be made to have it moved to the repair shop of your choice.
Getting back on the road
In the San Diego area, the premier auto repair shop is Transmasters Transmissions and Auto Care. Located in Miramar , Transmasters has been serving customer since 1989, specializing in engine and brake repair as well as several types of transmission issues. All mechanics are ASE-certified and are up-to-date on all the latest automobile technology.
Of course, your car car is going to need collision repair, so you'll need to find a good body shop. But, it's vital that you have mechanics you can trust to check under the hood for any engine damage that may have also resulted from the collision. The expert technicians at Transmasters are committed to providing the highest quality customer service.
Call Transmasters today to schedule an appointment and get your car and you back on the road again.