What To Do After a Car Accident in Oxnard: A Step-by-Step Guide

Car accidents happen fast — especially in busy areas like Oxnard or along the 101. Whether you drive a Tesla, a BMW, or a family SUV, the aftermath of a collision can be confusing and stressful.

What should you do first? Who should you call? And how do you make sure your car gets repaired the right way?

This guide walks you through every step to take after a car accident in Ventura County, so you can protect your safety, your rights, and your vehicle.

Step 1: Move to Safety and Check for Injuries

After the crash:

  • Turn on your hazard lights.

  • Move your vehicle out of traffic, if it is safe to do so.

  • Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.

Even in a minor crash, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries are not obvious right away.

Step 2: Call the Police and File a Report

In California, you must report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

  • Call local authorities (Oxnard PD or CHP) to file a police report.

  • Get the report number — you’ll need this for your insurance claim.

🚔 Pro tip: Even if the other driver suggests settling it privately, always report the accident. Skipping this step can hurt your insurance or legal case later.

Step 3: Exchange Information with All Drivers

Collect the following from everyone involved:

  • Full name and contact info

  • Driver’s license number

  • Insurance company and policy number

  • License plate number

  • Vehicle make, model, and color

Do not admit fault — just stick to the facts.

Step 4: Document the Scene

Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

  • Damage to all vehicles

  • License plates

  • Roadway, debris, and skid marks

  • Street signs or traffic signals

  • Any injuries

If there are witnesses, get their names and contact info too.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurer as soon as possible. Provide:

  • Your policy number

  • The police report (if available)

  • The other driver’s info

  • Photos and evidence from the scene

Ask about:

  • Claim timelines

  • Rental coverage

  • Preferred body shop options

⚠️ Reminder: California law gives you the right to choose your own collision repair shop in Oxnard, regardless of insurer “recommendations.”

Step 6: Schedule a Damage Estimate or Inspection

Schedule a Damage Estimate or Inspection

Your insurer may send an adjuster or ask you to upload photos. But for the most accurate estimate:

  • Get a physical inspection at a certified auto body shop.

  • Ask about OEM parts, recalibration needs, and hidden damage.

Step 7: Choose a Certified Collision Repair Shop in Oxnard

Certified Collision Repair Shop in Oxnard

To protect your warranty, safety systems, and vehicle value, choose a shop that:

  • Follows OEM auto body repair procedures

  • Uses new, factory-certified (OEM) parts

  • Has experience with your make (Tesla, BMW, etc.)

  • Offers insurance claim assistance

Common Mistakes After a Car Accident

  1. Delaying repairs – This can worsen damage or affect your claim.

  2. Accepting a lowball estimate – Especially if it skips disassembly or full inspection.

  3. Letting insurance steer you – You have the right to choose any licensed shop.

How Prestige Bodyworks Handles Collision Repair

At Prestige Bodyworks in Oxnard, we help drivers every step of the way:

  • Certified repairs for BMW and Tesla models

  • OEM-only parts — no aftermarket substitutes

  • Direct assistance with insurance claims

  • Serving Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, and surrounding areas

We understand how stressful accidents can be. That’s why we offer a virtual estimate tool to get started right away — no pressure, no surprises.

What Drivers Should Expect

  • Estimate Time: Use our virtual tool or come in for a full disassembly inspection

  • Repair Timeline: Varies based on parts availability and damage scope (typically 5–15 days)

  • Cost: Covered by insurance if you’re not at fault, minus your deductible

  • Next Steps: Schedule repairs and confirm rental car needs (if included in your coverage)

Start with our virtual estimate tool to upload photos and get expert guidance:
🔧 Get a Virtual Estimate

Conclusion

Knowing what to do after a car accident — especially in Oxnard or Ventura County — can make a big difference in how quickly and properly your vehicle is repaired. From documenting the scene to choosing a BMW certified body shop in Ventura or a Tesla collision repair shop in Oxnard, each step matters.

Contact Prestige Bodyworks for certified repairs done right the first time.

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