Automobile Accident Do’s and Don’ts

Choosing an Auto Body Repair Facility

Prioritize: Everyone wants good value for their money. To identify what factors determine value for you, it’s essential that you prioritize your needs and desires. Consider important factors like quality, price, and delivery time. Remember: it’s never worth compromising car safety or the future value of the car for a slightly lower price. In the event of a serious accident, seek a more accurate price estimate by requesting an “itemized estimate.” This type of auto body estimate will provide a detailed breakdown of what your vehicle needs. With this information, you can focus on the repairs first without becoming distracted by the cost.

The auto body repair facility you choose should have the means to address each repair. Keep in mind there may also be hidden damage that doesn’t become apparent until after service begins. Ask the collision center how the process works with your insurance company if additional damage is identified. When choosing a collision center, the workshop should include state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure precision and timeliness.

Request Information: Communication is essential. You should feel comfortable contacting the auto body repair shop and asking questions. Understanding the process, estimate, insurance process, and expected turnaround time will provide you with peace of mind.

A reputable garage will have knowledgeable staff who are happy to explain the process before you commit.

Ensure Your Satisfaction: Upon the return of your vehicle, inspect it and give it a test drive to ensure everything looks and runs properly. If you have any concerns regarding appearance, safety, and handling, contact the auto body repair shop. Don’t accept a vehicle that isn’t performing to standard after repairs.

Do’s and Don’ts – If you are involved in an Accident

What to Do:

• Check on all parties and notify authorities. First, see if everyone involved is alright. Next, alert the police and emergency services as appropriate. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
• Act as soon as possible, while the accident is fresh in your memory. If you have a notepad or smartphone, write about what happened (especially any key details), so you’re able to provide a complete description of the accident. Snap photos if possible. Note: You may need to return to the accident scene to collect pictures.
• Notify your insurance company immediately. At a glance, you might believe your vehicle requires small repairs and that time is on your side if there are no apparent injuries. However, this delay can cost you. Contact your insurance company, and never attempt to settle a claim yourself.
• Report the accident to the DMV (Department Of Motor Vehicles) within 10 days. This is especially important to do if the damage to the vehicle exceeds $1000.00. There are accident-report forms at police stations. Complete a form and mail it to the DMV. Make sure to save a copy of the completed form for your records. Your insurance policy’s “appraisal clause” may offer support for a fair settlement in the event the insurance company and auto body shop disagree about repair costs.
• Get an inspection and seek repairs, even if the damage is minor. Remember: you might want to resell your vehicle one day. Dents and rust spots reduce a vehicle’s resale and trade-in value. In addition, it’s possible your vehicle has incurred “invisible” structural damage. This type of damage isn’t possible to see at a glance and may mean your vehicle isn’t safe to drive. Be proactive and request an inspection and repair service now to do your future self a favor.
• Request a tow to a repair shop you trust.

What Not to Do

• Don’t sign an insurance release immediately. Ensure your vehicle has been repaired to your complete satisfaction before you sign.
• Refuse to discuss who is at fault; let your insurance company handle this. Simply state the events as they happened without commentary.
• Avoid discussion about the accident’s circumstances with anyone except the police or a representative of your insurance company.
• Be clear that you want to repair your car in the shop your car is being towed. Do not sign a towing release form or authorize repairs before that. Read and understand all the papers present to you before you sign them. Unless you are injured and removed from the scene by ambulance, a towing company must take your car to your chosen location. This is a mandate in most states.
• Never sign a statement or allow someone to adjust your claims (even by phone). This information may be used against you in court.
• Make sure your repair has covered all necessary repairs and do not accept a check for the repair otherwise. As the owner of your car, you are responsible for having your car repaired to your satisfaction.
• Don’t settle for less in service – choose a quality workshop that ensures you are fully satisfied. Keep in mind: low bids may be tempting financially but could indicate an incomplete job. Get a few quotes and ensure you make an informed decision based on more than the lowest estimate.
• Don’t forget the alignment: As you receive itemized estimates from auto body shops, you may find some shops including services that others overlook. An alignment is one service that may not be noted on every estimate. An unaddressed and overlooked repair can have serious consequences. Ensure the auto body shop you choose is providing all services your vehicle may need. When in doubt, ask if a repair should be included to get a sense of whether it was intentionally left out or forgotten. This will help you choose the right auto body shop.
• Don’t forget you’re in charge – Some insurance companies may have preferred shops that they have agreements with in order to keep costs within a certain range. You may choose to go to a direct repair shop if it matches your requirements, but you aren’t required to use the insurance company’s recommendation. You have the right to choose the auto body shop that will repair your car.