After a vehicle crash, you may be wondering what steps are necessary to get your car back on the road. From filing an insurance claim to obtaining a police report, and sometimes seeking medical treatment for any injuries, there’s a lot to handle. On top of that, you’ll need to assess and repair the damage to your vehicle. If you’ve never worked with a collision shop before, you might be unsure of how the process works. The following tips will help make things smoother. Contact Bill’s Auto Body serving the greater Forest Lake Minnesota area, for all of your auto body needs.
The Appraiser’s Role
Insurance companies typically send an appraiser to evaluate the damage to your vehicle. A skilled appraiser can identify all types of damage, even those that aren’t immediately visible. If additional damage is discovered during the repair process, it’s essential that the appraiser advocates for the insurer to cover these necessary repairs. Don’t hesitate to ask about the appraiser’s experience and what their procedure is for addressing hidden damage found during repairs.
Choosing Your Repair Shop
While insurance companies often recommend certain repair shops, you are not obligated to use their suggested facilities. You have the right to choose your own repair shop. Selecting a repair facility that you trust can give you peace of mind that the repairs will be done correctly, without feeling limited by the insurer’s preferences.
Comprehensive Repair Work
Although damage may seem minor at first glance, collisions can impact a vehicle’s entire structure, including the drivetrain, frame, and wheels. Even seemingly insignificant crashes can cause serious hidden damage. Be sure to choose a repair specialist who will conduct a thorough inspection to ensure all damage is properly repaired.
Bodywork and Dent Repair
Some believe that fixing a damaged body panel is as simple as pulling it back into place, but that’s not always the case. While paintless dent repair can be effective in certain situations, it’s crucial that a trained professional with the right equipment performs the work to ensure a high-quality repair.
Warranty Protection
Insurance companies may try to steer you toward their preferred repair shops by implying that warranty coverage depends on it. However, warranties come from the repair shop, not the insurer. Be sure to select a repair facility that provides written warranties and customer satisfaction guarantees to protect yourself.
Restoring Your Car to Pre-Accident Condition
In the past, a car that had been in an accident was often never the same. But with modern repair techniques and advanced tools, skilled technicians can restore your car to its original condition. Today’s repair methods ensure that your vehicle’s functionality, structure, and appearance are brought back to pre-accident form.
If you’ve recently been in a crash, contact Bill’s Auto Body located in Scandia, MN for an inspection and estimate. We are committed to making your car as good as new, with guaranteed satisfaction.