Your Rights After An Accident in California

Know your legal right to choose your repair shop To ensure your car is properly repaired after an accident

Your Rights After an Accident in California

California law provides strong consumer protections after an auto accident, but most drivers are never clearly told how those rights apply during the insurance claim process.

This page explains how auto claims are supposed to be handled in California, what insurers must do, and what you should understand before repairs begin.

How Auto Claims Are Handled in California

Auto insurance claims in California are governed by the state’s Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations, which outline how insurers are expected to investigate, evaluate, and settle claims.

These regulations require insurers to conduct reasonable investigations, consider all relevant information, and communicate accurately with vehicle owners throughout the claim process.

While the regulations do not guarantee specific settlement outcomes, they are intended to ensure claims are handled fairly and based on complete information.

These standards are enforced by the California Department of Insurance.

You Have the Right to Choose the Repair Shop

In California, insurance companies may recommend repair facilities, but they cannot require you to use a specific shop.

Choosing your own repair shop does not void coverage, reduce payment, or eliminate warranty protections.

Insurance Cannot Steer Your Repair Decision

California regulations prohibit insurers from using pressure, misrepresentation, or unnecessary delays to influence your repair decision.

Statements suggesting repairs will take longer, be lower quality, or not be guaranteed because of your shop choice reflect insurer preferences, not your legal rights.

Repair Estimates Are Often Incomplete

Initial insurance estimates are often written quickly to move the claim forward. They are not final repair plans.

California’s claims handling regulations allow estimates to be revised as additional damage or required procedures are identified during the repair process.

Safety Systems Must Be Considered

Modern vehicles rely on cameras, sensors, radar, and advanced driver assistance systems to operate safely.

These systems can be affected by even minor accidents and do not always trigger warning lights when out of calibration. If inspections or calibrations are required to restore safe operation, they must be considered as part of the repair.