On average, there are 6 million car accidents every year in the US alone. If you’ve been in a crash, you know there are a number of things you must do after the accident, like dealing with insurance and getting checked for injuries.
One other important task following a car accident is taking your car to the shop.
Much like some injuries aren’t immediately noticeable after a crash, some car issues could be hidden at first, especially if you’re involved in a minor fender bender.
Regardless of the nature of the accident, you should always prioritize car repair and maintenance in the days immediately following a crash.
By doing so, you can uncover small issues that could later develop into something more serious that leaves you stranded on the side of the road.
Keep reading for 9 repair tips you need to know if you’re in a car accident.
1. Document the Damage
Immediately following a car accident, you should evaluate yourself to see if you’re injured. If you need medical assistance, that should always be your first priority.
If you feel ok, then take some time to look at your car to see if there’s any damage. If you can, use your phone to take pictures of anything that looks to be damaged as a result of the accident.
Take pictures of even the smallest scratches or dents. This concrete proof can help you if you end up filing a court case and can also be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
2. Determine Who Is at Fault
Your insurance company can help figure out if you or the other driver involved in the accident is at fault. This is important because in most cases, the at-fault driver is responsible for their own repair costs.
If you are responsible for causing the accident, you may not have to pay for the repairs out-of-pocket if you have collision insurance, but it depends on the specifics of your policy.
3. Work with Your Insurance Company
Immediately following the accident, you should contact your insurance agent. Not only will your insurance company help determine who’s at fault, but they’ll also tell you how much money your coverage provides for repairs.
After speaking with your agent, you can also decide if you would rather pay for the repairs yourself instead of filing a claim, to prevent an increase in your premiums.
If you decide to file a claim, make sure you ask your insurance company how long you have to complete the repairs. They may also be able to give you recommendations on repair shops in your area.
4. Choose a Repair Shop
Unless you live in a very small town, there are probably dozens of nearby shops to take your car for repairs.
Before you decide which shop to use, do some research first. Look for a place that only employs ASE certified mechanics and ask about available warranties on the repairs.
You should also ask for a written estimate from a few shops so you can compare the car maintenance and repair costs.
And, it’s a good idea to read online reviews to get an unbiased idea of what it’s like to work with a particular shop.
5. Get a Full Inspection
Once you decide on a shop, ask them to do a full inspection. While some of the damage from the accident may be apparent, there could be hidden issues under the hood that could turn worse if not addressed.
By having a full inspection done, you’ll have a better idea of how to get your car back in good working order.
6. Ask for a Full List of Repairs
Before you sign off on any repairs, ask your mechanic to write up a full list of everything that they recommend doing.
You may need to share this with your insurance agency in order to get the money for the repairs.
It also helps ensure that you approve everything that will be done to the car, so the shop can’t later claim that you signed off on a repair when you didn’t.
7. Decide on Which Parts to Use
Once you’ve agreed to all the repairs that will be done, talk to the repair shop about parts.
Depending on your car, you might be fine using generic parts, which can keep costs down. However, if you have a unique car, like the ultimate modified 350z, or it’s important to you to only use specific parts, you should communicate that with your mechanic.
Make sure you understand that the parts you choose will likely impact the final cost and clear that with your insurance company first.
8. Figure Out How to Get Around
Depending on the nature of the repairs you need, your car might need to be in the shop for several weeks. If that’s the case, how do you plan to get around without your vehicle?
Talk to your insurance company about whether your policy covers the cost of a rental car while your car is in the shop. If it doesn’t, then talk to the repair shop to see if they offer the use of a rental car during the repair period.
If that is also not a possibility, you can ask a friend or family member if you can borrow their car, rely on public transportation, or use ride-sharing apps to get around.
9. Prevent Future Accidents with Regular Car Repair and Maintenance Visits
While, sometimes, accidents are unpreventable, taking your car in for regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks can help prevent accidents in the future.
Just like a yearly physical can help doctors detect health abnormalities, regular maintenance visits can help mechanics prevent more serious issues from occurring in your car.
This will help keep you and your fellow drivers safe on the road.
Be a More Confident Driver
Now that you know the most important car repair and maintenance tips to follow after an accident, you can feel better about knowing exactly what to do if you’re in a crash.
Read through our other articles for more lifestyle tips to help you feel more confident in all areas of life!
