The Collision Repair Process Step By Step
JB Auto Paint & Body in Longview, TX understands that being involved in an auto accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. While it’s important to focus on your safety, it’s also crucial to know what happens after the accident—especially when it comes to the collision repair process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect once the accident is over.
Step 1: Move the Vehicle to a Safe Place
First and foremost, safety is the priority. If you can, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic to prevent further accidents. However, there are certain situations where you should not move your vehicle, such as if doing so could further injure someone or if the vehicle is too damaged to be moved.
When it is safe to do so, move your car to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. This ensures the safety of everyone involved and helps avoid additional accidents.
Step 2: Go to a Collision Repair Center
After the initial chaos of the accident settles down, it’s time to have your vehicle assessed for damage. Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s essential to take your car to a qualified collision repair center like JB Auto Paint & Body. Even minor accidents can result in underlying damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
- If your vehicle is drivable, you can take it to the repair center yourself. It’s always a good idea to have a preferred shop in mind before an accident happens so you can avoid the stress of searching for a place during this challenging time.
- If your car is undriveable, a tow truck will be needed. You can either call a tow service directly or reach out to your chosen collision center, and they’ll assist in arranging the tow.
Step 3: File an Auto Insurance Claim
Once your vehicle is at the repair center, the next step is to file an insurance claim with your auto insurance company. If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, you’ll need to contact your insurer to report the accident and get the process started.
- Most insurance companies offer an easy process for filing claims, and the initial steps generally don’t take too long.
- If you don’t have collision and comprehensive coverage, you may be able to skip this step and proceed directly to repair estimates.
Step 4: Get an Estimate for Repairs
Your collision repair center will evaluate the damage and provide an estimate for the necessary repairs. This typically happens the same day your car arrives, or the following business day if it arrives after hours.
- During this step, the technician will also assess whether the vehicle is safe to drive. If it is, you may be able to take it home until the repairs are completed. If not, the car will need to stay at the center for further evaluation and repairs.
Step 5: Have Your Insurer Approve the Estimate
Before any repair work begins, your insurance company will need to approve the estimate. The approval process can vary, but it may involve sending photos of the damage to the insurer if they have a relationship with the repair center.
- In some cases, an insurance adjuster may need to physically inspect the vehicle before giving the green light for repairs.
Step 6: Schedule the Repair Work
Once your insurer has approved the estimate, the repair work can officially be scheduled. Keep in mind that collision repairs often take longer than routine maintenance, like oil changes or brake jobs. Your car may need to stay at the repair center for several days depending on the extent of the damage.
- You may need to arrange for alternative transportation while your vehicle is being repaired. Many repair centers, including JB Auto Paint & Body, can help with this process.
Need Collision Repair? Contact Us Today!
If you’ve been involved in an accident and need collision repair, don’t wait. JB Auto Paint & Body is here to help you through the entire process, from insurance claims to getting your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition.
Contact us today to get started with your collision repairs and experience fast, reliable service that gets you back on the road as soon as possible. We’ve got you covered!