Insurance
You might know the roads of Garland, Texas, like the back of your hand, but do you know the insurance claim process or how to navigate car accident repairs? Most of us hope never to be in an accident, so we rarely learn the basics beyond how to keep ourselves safe on the road.
However, if the worst should happen, and you’ve been involved in a collision, having all the facts can streamline the insurance process. In this guide, you’ll learn what to do at the scene of an accident, the steps involved in car accident repair, and how to navigate insurance as you try to get your vehicle back on the road.
Document As Much As Possible At the Scene of the Accident
If you’re in a safe position to do so, move out of traffic after your accident and take as many photos and videos as you can, especially of:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- License plates
- The surrounding roads and traffic signs
- Road conditions
- Property damage, if applicable
- Driver’s insurance cards and driver’s licenses
If there were witnesses to the accident, take down their contact information. You should also note the time of the accident, the weather conditions at the time, the circumstances of the accident, and the location. All of this information can serve you well as you start down the insurance route.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Whether you or another driver is responsible for your collision, contact your insurer as soon as possible. When you file a claim, keep a record of:
- The time and date you reported the collision
- The claim number
- The name and contact information of the adjuster you spoke with
- Insurer-requested documents and information
- Copies of estimates and correspondence
Choose the Insurance Company
You’ll need to determine whether you’re making a claim under your own policy or the other driver’s. If another driver caused the collision, you may be able to claim against their liability insurance, making them liable for your vehicle damage and subsequent car accident repairs, medical expenses, and rental car costs.
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured, your policy may provide additional protection and peace of mind. Check with your insurer to learn more.
Become Familiar with the Claims Process
Many people need insurance claim assistance because they aren’t familiar with the claims process. Fortunately, most insurance companies and auto body shops work together to make it as straightforward and as stress-free as possible. After all, you’ve been through enough!
When you file a claim with your own insurance company, the insurer must acknowledge it within 15 days of receiving notice. Then, they have 15 business days to accept or reject the claim. However, they have wiggle room of an additional 45 days if they explain why they need more time. If the collision relates to a weather-related catastrophe, they can extend those deadlines by an additional 15 days. If your claim is accepted, they must make payment within five business days.
Select Your Own Auto Body Shop
In Texas, you don’t have to choose the auto body shop your insurance company recommends. While your insurer may provide a list of options as a courtesy, you’re free to shop around and choose the most reputable, experienced auto body shop you believe will treat your vehicle as if it were their own.
When deciding, consider factors such as:
- Whether they provide insurance claim assistance
- The repair services they provide, such as bumper repair and replacement, collision repair, heavy-duty frame repair, paintless dent repair, and suspension repair
- How many years of experience they have
- Testimonials and reviews
- Whether they provide warranties and free estimates
- If they have I-CAR certified technicians
Repair Your Vehicle
Once your insurance claim is approved, it’s time to restore your pride and joy to its former glory! If you’ve used your own insurance, you’ll receive the payment minus your deductible. You’ll owe that deductible to your chosen body shop.
Now all that’s left is to schedule repairs and wait for your vehicle to return to you in its pre-accident condition!
How to Choose Car Accident Repair Specialists
You now know how to navigate the insurance claim process after a car accident, but do you know how to choose car accident repair specialists you can trust? Since the quality of your vehicle’s repairs can affect its safety, appearance, and resale value, we recommend doing the following:
- Asking about relevant collision repair experience
- Requesting information about certifications and training, such as I-CAR certified technicians
- Getting a detailed written estimate
- Asking about the parts that will be used, such as OEM, aftermarket, or recycled
- Asking about warranties and what they include
- Checking reviews and looking for patterns about car accident repair quality, communication, customer service, and insurance claim assistance
- Asking about repair timelines
- Ensuring vehicle safety systems will be considered
- Asking plenty of questions for your peace of mind
Request Insurance Claim Assistance and Car Accident Repairs at Mr. Car Shine Body Shop in Garland, TX
You’ve already been through enough. It’s time to reduce some of your stress by choosing an experienced collision repair team to get your vehicle back on the road. Whether you’re ready to choose a trusted repairer or you need a helping hand navigating the insurance process first, we’re here to help. Contact Mr. Car Shine Body Shop in Garland, Texas, today, and let’s get you back on all four wheels.
