No one ever wants to be in an accident. But if you are, there are some steps you should take to make sure your car is repaired properly. Here are six steps to take when repairing your car after an accident. With these tips, you can ensure your car is back on the road in no time.
1. Get a Professional Estimate
Don’t just take your insurance company’s word for it when it comes to how much your repairs will cost. Get a few estimates from reputable body shops in your area. This will give you a better idea of the true cost of repairs and help you negotiate with your insurance company if necessary.
You can also get an estimate from your insurance company’s preferred body shop, but make sure to still get a second opinion to ensure you’re getting the best deal. While it may be more convenient to go with the preferred shop, it’s not necessarily in your best interest.
2. Choose the Right Body Shop
Not all body shops are created equal. Do your research and choose a shop that has a good reputation and uses quality parts. You don’t want to end up with a shoddy repair job that doesn’t last. Here are some things to consider when choosing a body shop:
- Ask for recommendations from friends and family or check online reviews
- Make sure the shop has certifications, such as I-CAR or ASE
- Find out if they use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts
You can also ask about their warranty on repairs and what their process is for any issues that may arise after the repair. Some deals may seem too good to be true, and they probably are.
3. Keep All Documentation
Make sure to keep any documentation related to the accident, such as police reports and insurance information. This can come in handy if there are any issues with repairs down the road. Also, keep track of all communication with your insurance company and body shop.
Write down dates and details of any phone conversations or in-person meetings. This will help with any disputes that may arise. You can also request copies of estimates and invoices for your records. No detail is too small to record.
4. Consider Mobile Auto Glass Repair Services
If you have damage to your windshield, mobile auto glass repair services can come to you and fix it quickly and conveniently. This can save you time having to drop off your car at a body shop and save you money. Just make sure the company you choose is reputable and has good reviews. You don’t want a faulty repair job on such an important part of your car.
When getting a quote, find out if they use OEM glass or aftermarket. OEM glass is made by the original equipment manufacturer and is often of higher quality. When it comes to your safety, it’s worth it to spend a little extra for OEM glass.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for What You Need
If your car is not drivable after the accident, you may need a rental car while it’s being repaired. Don’t be afraid to ask your insurance company for coverage of a rental car. It may be included in your policy, or they may offer it as a courtesy. You should also make sure that any necessary accommodations, such as a ride to and from the body shop, are covered.
If you have full coverage insurance, your policy should also cover any personal items that were damaged in the accident. Keep receipts for these items and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
6. Take Your Time with Repairs
Don’t rush through the repair process. Take the time to choose the right body shop and make sure all necessary repairs are completed properly. It’s better to spend a little extra time getting it done right than to have to deal with future issues because of shoddy work. If you have any concerns or questions about the repairs, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for clarification. It’s your car, and you have a right to know what is being done to it.
Overall, repairing a car after an accident can be a stressful process. But by following these steps, you can ensure that the repairs are done properly and that all of your needs are met. So don’t panic, and take the necessary steps to get your car back in good shape. You’ll be back on the road in no time.
