A Guide on Vehicle Repair after a Car Accident

Did you know that there are more than 2 million car accidents in the US every year? And, it is a huge number to ponder over. Whenever a car accident happens, either one or both of the vehicles involved are often damaged to some extent.

While some vehicles may have less damage, others might end up being badly ruptured. Regardless of the case, it is important to get the vehicle repaired in order to use it further. However, the process of vehicle repair after a car accident is a bit different from normal wear and tear repair.

If you have been in an accident, this article is for you; here, we mention important information on what to do after an accident and how to get the auto repairs done.

So, what’s the wait for? Let’s get started.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

1. Call 911 and Get to Safety

The first thing that you need to do after an accident is to call 911 and get your hands on safety. You should connect with the police as it is a legal requirement in many states, regardless of the intensity of the accident.

The police will come to the reported area and compile an accident report per the situation. These documents are necessary for the police record and for you to claim the insurance later. Additionally, if the police can not reach the place, you can also get to the nearest station to file a report.

Likewise, you should call for immediate medical attention and get first aid as required. If there are no visible injuries, getting your medical checkup later on is still suggested to ensure no internal wounds or damage.

2. Do Not Sign or Give any Statement

It is essential to understand that regardless of whether it was your fault, you should not give out any statement. Even if it was your fault, understand that you should only offer the facts, not the opinion.

If anyone from the police department or the insurance company gets to sign any statement from you, you can gently deny it. You can connect with your lawyer before making any decision. Discuss the details and let them know everything. They will offer legal expertise as required.

Also, it is recommended to document all the scenarios and capture all that you can. It includes information on all the vehicles involved in the accident, weather conditions, lighting on the road, and any injuries you may have.

3. Find a Car Repair Shop

As you connect with the insurance company, they suggest a list of preferred car repair shops where you can get all the repairs done for your vehicle. However, according to Auto Body Repair experts, you do not necessarily have to choose one of those. Instead, you can choose any of your choice and convenience in your area. In addition, they suggest that before selecting an auto repair company, you must ensure they provide quick estimates and certified technicians.

It will be an add-on if they could use the latest technology and software to analyze the damage and give you an estimate of the repair costs and other processes. You should be aware that every repair is different. Thus, the process may differ accordingly.

However, there are specific steps that should remain the same. These include:

• Estimate: The first step is getting an estimate from the auto repair company, The technician who would examine your car and give you an idea of the damage. Some may also use technology to create a repair process and share the cost with you. It includes everything from repairs and replacement to final touches and delivery.
• Insurance Approval: Most auto repair companies offer help in getting the insurance claim for the repair. They speak to the insurer and understand the type of insurance and its coverage. Accordingly, they will share the estimate with the insurer and work on their quotation about the required amount. It is suggested that, in this, you should not be too involved and let them do the needful. You should provide the necessary details and sit back.
• Order Parts: Companies that use software to analyze the damage have an idea of what parts will need a complete replacement. They also speak with the insurance company about the parts they need to replace. After the approval, they place an order for all the needed parts and accordingly inform you.
• Pickup/Drop off: As the company gets the parts, the next step is getting your vehicle to the repair garage. While some stores may ask you to drop off the car at the location, others will offer you the convenience of picking up the vehicle from your preferred point. Interestingly, some repair centers also offer to arrange a vehicle for your use until yours is getting repaired. It could be either their own car or help you rent one.
• Repairs and Reassembly: The next step is repairing and reassembling the ordered parts. It includes the mechanical part, which could be manual or automated, as the company offers. In addition to repairing the damaged parts, the vehicle will get a new coat of paint to refresh the look. After it is done, the parts are reassembled to tune into a beautiful car that looks like it was never damaged.
• Final Inspection and Delivery: After everything is done and the technicians give the final touches, which include cleaning and vacuuming, the professional inspects the vehicle completely. It includes checking the functioning of all the parts, alignment, color, and other specifications as required. Once done, they deliver the vehicle to your doorstep.

Bottom Line

A car accident may leave you with damaged property, and the process ahead may seem daunting. However, we hope the information in this guide helps you choose the right auto repair company. Know that each repair is different; therefore, you should ask as many questions as you need to decide on the best repair shop. You can ask for multiple estimates, but always go for the one with industrial experience e and updated with the latest technology. Good luck!