Accidents happen — even in a peaceful place like Brentwood, CA. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing how to navigate the car insurance claim process can make the difference between chaos and calm.
This guide breaks down the step-by-step process for handling car insurance claims in Brentwood, with practical tips, legal insights, and local resources to help you recover quickly and confidently.
Filing a car insurance claim isn’t something most drivers do regularly — and that unfamiliarity can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
If you're covered under an auto insurance policy in Brentwood, CA, understanding what to do after an accident — and how to work with your insurer — can help you:
Let’s walk through the full process — from the moment of impact to final payout.
The first step is simple, but critical: check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
In California, you’re required to stop at the scene of any accident, even minor ones. Failing to stop can lead to hit-and-run charges.
Your auto insurance claim will be only as strong as the information you provide.
Take out your phone and gather the following:
Also, exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s). Collect:
In Brentwood — and all of California — you're legally required to report any accident that involves:
You can report the accident through the Brentwood Police Department or the California DMV within 10 days using form SR-1
Even if it’s not legally required, filing a police report helps protect you in case the other driver disputes what happened.
Once you're safe and have your documentation, it’s time to file the claim.
If you're working with a local broker for auto insurance in Brentwood, CA, reach out to them directly — they can often help expedite the process, offer advice, and even advocate on your behalf.
After you submit your claim, your insurer will assign an adjuster to your case. This person’s job is to:
Tip for Brentwood Drivers: If your car is drivable, local repair shops in Brentwood like Auto Tech Solutions or Brentwood Collision Center often work directly with major insurers, which can speed up repairs.
This is where your policy comes into play.
Your auto insurance in Brentwood, CA, might include several types of coverage. Here's a breakdown of how they work in a claim:
| Coverage Type | What It Pays For |
|---|---|
| Liability | Damage you cause to others (required in CA) |
| Collision | Damage to your car from a crash |
| Comprehensive | Non-collision damage (theft, fire, vandalism) |
| Medical Payments | Medical bills for you or passengers |
| Uninsured/Underinsured | If the other driver has little/no insurance |
Important Update for 2025:
As of January 1, 2025, California’s minimum required auto insurance limits have changed. Your policy must now include:
Make sure your coverage reflects these new limits.
Once your adjuster gives the go-ahead, you’ll need to get your vehicle repaired. You can either:
By law, you always have the right to pick your own mechanic — even if your insurer recommends someone else.
Pro Tip: In Brentwood, shops that are DRP-approved may streamline the claim process, but always check reviews and ask about warranties.
Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in.
For example:
If you were not at fault and the other party's insurer accepts liability, your deductible might be reimbursed.
After repairs are complete and medical bills are accounted for (if applicable), the insurer will issue the final payment and close the claim.
If you’re unhappy with the amount or feel something was mishandled:
Trying to manage a claim on your own — especially after an accident — can feel overwhelming.
Working with a local insurance broker in Brentwood CA gives you a powerful advantage:
At Circadian Insurance Brokers, we help clients navigate claims step-by-step, ensuring no detail is missed and your rights are protected.
Filing an auto insurance claim in Brentwood doesn’t have to be stressful — as long as you know what to expect and how to respond. Follow the steps above, keep records of everything, and don’t be afraid to lean on your broker or agent for support.
And remember: the best time to review your auto insurance coverage is before you need it. Make sure your policy meets the new 2025 California standards and provides the protection you truly need.
At Circadian Insurance, we offer more than just policies — we offer peace of mind. Whether you're buying a new plan or dealing with a current claim, our local team is here for you every step of the way.
