Did you know there are over six million car accidents in the United States each year? And 72 percent of those accidents result in property damage. That’s a lot of dented fenders. What’s the first thing you do after recovering from the initial shock of an automobile accident? After the initial impact, do the following. Have your insurance company approve necessary work and the auto body shop get started on repairs:
Call the Police
Shaken by the crash? Ask another passenger or witness to record details to accurately report the incident to the police. The other party could decide to argue the validity of your report. This unfortunate, all-too-common event could unfold. Officers will also make sure first responders safely attend to injuries and/or contain dangers like leaking fuel or oil. Having access to a police report will help expedite your claim.
Contact the DMV
Understand your legal responsibilities relative to reporting collisions to the Dept of Motor Vehicles. If you are not sure, contact your state insurance commissioner’s office. Keep insurance information in your glove compartment or somewhere safe in your car, for easy access. In the aftermath of a crash, you shouldn’t have to dig for important paperwork.
Call Your Insurance Company
If you are able, while waiting for police to arrive on scene, or later, as soon as you are safe, call your insurance agent. He or she will help walk you through the steps and tell you what to gather. If the functionality of your car is compromised, call to have it towed to a reputable auto body shop, such as C&L Auto Body in Covina. But do not to heed their advice if they try to recommend a so-called “preferred auto body shop.” Click here to read about the truth about the conflict of interest between insurance companies pointing you toward a particular shop. It’s in your best interest to choose the shop yourself.
Secure a Rental Car
If you need to rent replacement wheels while your vehicle is out for repair, auto body shop customer service may be able to help you. For example, the staff at C&L Auto Body offer concierge services, which include help directing you to great rental car options based on your budget, insurance coverage and preferences.
Arrange to Have Your Car Repaired and Claiming Payment
Once the adjuster has done his or her due diligence, you should receive an estimate of the cost to repair your vehicle, as well as notes about deductibles and details about the payment processes. They should estimate the necessary work. In many cases, however, the approved work may be based on aftermarket or generic parts. Make sure your insurance company will pay for adequate replacement parts, designed to return your vehicle to pre-accident condition. The experts at C&L Auto Body will make sure your car repairs protect your investment. What’s more, once we begin work, if we discovered hidden damage, we will manage submitted updated estimates to your insurance company.
About C&L Auto Body
The “go-to” location for auto body repair and classic restoration in the San Gabriel Valley, since 1970, C&L Auto Body is known for our attention to detail, courteous service, and fair and affordable prices. If you select C&L to repair your car, our concierge service will help make your entire auto body repair process easy on you. We will even help you arrange for a rental car and deal directly with your insurance company. C&L Auto Body is owned and operated by the Buonsanti family, who strives to treat clients like family. Come by the shop 781 E San Bernardino Road in Covina, contact us via email today, call (626) 445-6630 or visit www.CandLAutoBody.com.