How To Minimize Vehicle Depreciation After An Accident

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Everyone knows a car will depreciate over time and with accident involvement, the vehicle depreciates just as quickly. How can you minimize vehicle depreciation after an accident? Here are some guidelines that will help you understand what happens with vehicle depreciation.

 

Vehicle Repairs

When you make repairs to a vehicle and there are no signs of damage and once the repair process is over, your vehicle won’t appreciate in value. In fact, its value in retail terms won’t be what it was previously. If you think about hiding any repairs, you’re out of luck there as well as any accidents with your vehicle will show up in a CARFAX report which anyone can access. The average figure for depreciation differs with every vehicle, but after an accident, the depreciation rate is approximately 30%. You say, Wow, but when you drive a car away from a car lot, the vehicle depreciates by double digits (11 percent). So, how do you make up for the loss?

 

Fix your Vehicle

The first thing you want to do is repair your vehicle soon after an accident. You’ll probably contemplate, I want to find an auto body shop near me where the work can be accurately and professionally done. Even minor work will increase a vehicle’s resale value, so you want to find the best body repair shop to take care of those small damaged areas. When you have the damage repaired, the resale value of your vehicle will increase. In all your vehicle depreciates after an accident.

Vehicle Repair

Use Original Manufactured Parts

When you search for a body shop that will do the work on your car, you’ll want to find one that uses OEM or original manufactured equipment to repair your vehicle. Using parts that are considered aftermarket will lessen the value of your vehicle. Keeping your car as original as possible is important if you want to get the most for its value. Whoever you choose to do the work, be sure and ask them whether they use OEM or aftermarket parts and how the value of your vehicle will be affected.

 

Diminished Value Insurance Claim

One thing you’ll want to do is file a claim with your insurance company that covers diminished value. If your car has been in an accident, it will lose more of its value. Also, if you did not cause the accident and you’re carrying full coverage, your insurance carrier should compensate you for the diminished value of the vehicle. Contact your insurance company to find out whether you are eligible to file for a diminished value insurance claim.

 

Diminished Value Types

Diminished value exists because of the results of an accident. If you put your vehicle up for sale after an accident, a diminished value is part of the deal. Even though the car goes through the repair process and is in good condition, it still faces a diminished value or depreciation.

There are different types of diminished value that include:

  • Immediate diminished value This means the difference between your car’s resale value before any accident involvement to after the accident when any repairs are made.
  • Inherent diminished value Once repairs are made after an accident, and the body shop restores the vehicle to pristine condition, you still need to consider that the vehicle was involved in an accident and its value is diminished. When it comes time to sell it or trade it in, the vehicle’s value decreases compared to before the accident.
  • Repair-related diminished value You’re talking about the value lost in a vehicle that is based solely on the quality of the repairs made to it. Say the color of your car is not just the right match or after-market or generic parts were used to repair it. The car will suffer depreciation because of any repairs or equipment used that were less than the highest standard. Your vehicle has a good chance of a certain loss in its value from the repairs made to it.

If you intend to claim diminished value through your insurance company, you’ll want to determine what kind of monetary loss you would deal with because of an accident. When you have an older vehicle that has lost its value, making a claim would probably not be sensible, particularly if a court case and legal fees are in the mix.

Determining Diminished Value

Determining Diminished Value

In order to determine diminished value, you can find what the Blue Book value would be normally before an accident. From there, you can deal with a car dealership and ask them for a trade-in value on your vehicle. This figure would give you an idea of its diminished value. It may not be the best offer, but it gives you an understanding of your vehicle’s worth.

You can also verify your vehicle’s worth by evaluating it through a company that deals in diminished value insurance assessments. This option would be the most accurate for a more solid figure of your car’s worth. Just make sure that whoever evaluates your car is a qualified expert and is accepted by your insurance company.

When you have an accident and need repair work done, you’ll want to get the best return on any losses, and Elmer’s Auto Body can help you pave the way through to a more acceptable return. Their auto body technicians provide services that return your vehicle to its original looks while minimizing its depreciation. Call Elmer’s and book an appointment for repairs at (856) 218-0202.

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Can an Accident Void My Vehicle’s Warranty?

When you have a new car, a warranty can give you some peace of mind. If there is a problem, many mechanical issues are covered by these warranties. However, if your car is involved in an accident, you might wonder if any repair work will void that vital warranty. When you need to fix your vehicle, here are a few things to know about voiding the vehicle’s warranty.

 

Warranty Limits

There are many ways to void the warranty of your vehicle. For the most part, a warranty does contain provisions for powertrain and bumper-to-bumper coverage. All these warranties are transferable and feature mileage or time limits.

The typical manufacturer powertrain warranty is valid for 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Some warranties have time limits, such as four to six years. However, many bumper-to-bumper plans will protect you up to 50,000 miles or five years. These warranties can help get your car back on the road. You might be concerned about scheduling repair work that could void those protections. When you are involved in a car accident, make sure to take a few steps to prevent a void warranty.

 

What Will Void a Warranty?

If you look at the fine print of your warranty, the manufacturer outlines several ways that can cause it to be invalid.

 

Title Salvage Distinction

When a vehicle is involved in a severe accident, your insurance company might give your car or truck a “salvage” title. With that title, the vehicle is a total loss, and any warranties are voided.

 

Abuse of Vehicle

Many warranties will have a clause defining “vehicle abuse.” What does that mean for you? If you use your vehicle for racing or subject it to excessive wear and tear, you could void your warranty. Any damage that is not considered “normal” by the manufacturer can be defined as abuse. In turn, your warranty will be canceled.

 

Odometer Tampering

Odometer tampering is known as “rolling back” your odometer. Some people roll back this component to make it appear that the vehicle has fewer miles. If you engage in this practice, you will have a voided warranty.

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Natural Disasters

An environmental disaster can happen in any region in the country. These disasters are also called “an act of God.” They include tornadoes, floods, fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes. No matter how your vehicle is damaged, it will null your warranty.

 

Improper Fluids

If you use the wrong fuel type or oil, those fluids can cause damage to your car. According to your manufacturer, they will not cover these damages to your vehicle. You always want to make sure you are using the proper fuels and fluids for your car.

These are a few ways that you can void your warranty without getting involved in an accident. Once you are in a vehicle accident, here are a couple of things that you will want to avoid.

 

Non-Certified Mechanics

Everyone wants to save a few dollars. You might know someone who can work on your car. However, any work by a non-certified mechanic will void your warranty. Many manufacturers require you to use a trained and certified mechanic, especially for any auto body repairs. Some of these non-certified mechanics can make errors that will affect the performance of your vehicle. You always want to find an authorized mechanic for your specific make and model of vehicle.

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Non-Approved Parts

A vehicle’s warranty can be voided when you don’t use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for the repair. The manufacturer approves these parts, and they will ensure that your car operates according to the automaker’s standards. If aftermarket parts are used for the repair, it may cause other components to wear down. For that reason, many manufacturers will void a warranty if you use unauthorized parts on the car.

However, the aftermarket is still a gray area for many people. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975, a warranty cannot be denied unless the manufacturer can prove the aftermarket parts caused damage to a vehicle. If you want to avoid any hassles with your warranty, talk to the shop manager to get certified OEM or manufacturer-approved aftermarket parts.

 

Modifications

While your car is in the shop, you might want to add a few new features to your vehicle. Modifications can improve the look or boost the performance of your car, but they can also void your warranty. Some of these modifications include installing a custom bumper, changing the grill, or adding spoilers. However, those modifications can also cancel your vehicle’s warranty. If you want to change these features, make sure to read your warranty. Even a simple upgrade can null it.

 

After an Accident

For the most part, a repair to your vehicle will not affect the warranty. According to many experts, a salvage title is the only way a vehicle’s warranty is voided after an accident.

In most cases, when your vehicle is repairable, an accident has no bearing on the warranty. The insurance company will have to declare your vehicle a total loss if the collision repairs cost more than the assessed market value.

Many insurance companies will use the Kelly Blue Book to determine your vehicle’s value based on a few factors, such as:

  • Age
  • Condition
  • Make and model
  • Mileage
  • Non-standard and aftermarket features
  • Transmission type (manual vs. automatic)
  • Vehicle history, including past collision repairs and maintenance

 

Keep Your Vehicle Compliant After an Accident

When you are involved in an accident, it will not void the warranty. However, taking it to a non-certified shop or using unauthorized aftermarket parts will cause problems down the road. If you need repairs for your vehicle, make sure to find a certified auto body shop for your car or truck.

 

Trusted Auto Body Shop in New Jersey

Looking for an auto body shop near me? Reach out to the certified technicians at Elmer’s Auto Body. We have the experience to work on your vehicle. Our team will use the right parts to maintain the warranty for your ride. To schedule a consultation, please call (856) 218-0202.

 

Elmer's Auto Body Washington Township

The Different Types of Windshield Glass Damage

Your car windshield plays an important role. It keeps you safe from debris and dirt on the road. It can bear an onslaught of rain and hail during those severe thunderstorms. While it is solid and durable, the windshield can become damaged after a severe impact. When your car has a damaged windshield, you will want to get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Here are the different types of windshield glass damage that you might see on your vehicle.

 

Types of Windshield Glass Damage

If your vehicle’s windshield is damaged, you can either replace or repair it.

Types of Windshield Glass Damage

Minor Chips

As you travel down the road, an impact from a stone or pebble can leave a small chip in the glass. These chips might seem like minor issues, but your glass could need a replacement. Depending on the chip’s size, severity, and location, a small chip could result in a total window replacement. You will want to have your window inspected by a professional. Some technicians can use the latest technology to repair those minor chips. If the chip damage is only on the surface of the glass, it should be a simple repair for your local auto body shop.

 

Bull’s Eye

One of the most common types of windshield damage is the bull’s eye. When debris hits your windshield, it can leave a circular break in the glass. Many of these cracks are small in size, but they could lead to a full windshield replacement. If you see this type of crack on your windshield, make sure to bring it to a repair shop right away. This type of damage can compromise the rest of your glass. However, most of these chips can be repaired by a trained technician.

Star Break

Everyone loves stars until you see one on your windshield. This chip damage resembles a starburst on the glass. From the point of impact, it might have various lengths extending from the center. If you don’t treat these cracks, they can spread throughout your windshield. In turn, the glass will start to weaken. When you spot a star break, you need to get it repaired immediately.

Clover Leaf

Despite the name, these chips do not bring good luck. This type of chip damage is more severe than the others. It involves a separation of the underlayers of glass. If you find this damage, contact your local technician. A professional can quickly repair these chips.

Bee’s Wing

A bee’s wing is similar to a star break, and it can spread out to other parts of your glass. However, this is another easily fixed chip.

Half-Moon

This chip looks like a half-circle in the middle. If you find the right windshield technician, it is an easy fix for your vehicle.

 

Combination Break

Some types of damages have a combination of these chips. In many cases, the chip damage can be easily repaired by a trained professional. Many of these chips are fixable, but you need to act immediately. If you leave the damage on the window, it will often expand to other areas of the glass. As a result, a simple fix turns into a complete windshield replacement.

Unrepairable Chips

Unfortunately, some repairs are not fixable. When a chip exceeds 40mm in diameter, you will need to replace the entire windshield. You also have to look at the severity of the damage. If the chip penetrates both layers of the glass, your windshield will need to be replaced.

The damage should never obstruct the driver’s vision. If that is the case with your windshield’s damage, it is time for a replacement. Finally, tiny chips can be easily fixed, but a vehicle littered with several chips will also need a new windshield.

Cracks

Along with chips, cracks can also be found on your windshield’s glass. Cracks can begin in the corners of your windshield and quickly spread. For that reason, these cracks compromise the integrity of the glass. You will have to replace the entire windshield.

 

If the polyvinyl layer of the glass has been damaged, then a crack repair is not a feasible option. You can always talk to a professional windshield expert about your damage. However, you will find that most cracked glass leads to a total windshield replacement.

Cracks

Damaged Windshield Hazards

As you already know, the windshield is an important safety component of your vehicle. If you drive around with a chipped or cracked windshield, you could be putting yourself or others at risk. You need proper visibility as you drive down the road. When the damage is in your line of sight, it can lead to accidents.

Along with that, damaged glass can affect the structural integrity of the windshield. During an accident, your passengers can be ejected from the vehicle, or the roof might collapse. Even your airbag relies on a well-maintained window. If your windshield is broken, then this safety component could fail to deploy.


If you find any damage in your car, you will want to contact a professional auto body shop. These technicians have state-of-the-art tools to fix your glass. If you need a windshield replacement, they also will make sure your vehicle has the right glass and proper fit. They understand the safety requirements to help protect everyone on the road.

You never want to drive around with a damaged windshield. It can endanger the life of you and your passengers. These tiny cracks and chips might seem harmless, but they can lead to catastrophic problems down the road.

 

Contact an Auto Body Shop Near Me

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we want you to be safe on the road. Our team has the experience to work on your vehicle. Whether you need a repair or replacement, we can handle all those tricky windshield issues.

We are an I-CAR Gold Class and Assured Performance certified shop. Our crew has the expertise to work on a variety of makes and models. Don’t drive around with a damaged vehicle. Make sure to call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202 to schedule an appointment.

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Different Types Of Rear-End Collision Damage

Rear-end collisions are the most common accidents on the road. In most cases, these accidents are minor and cause little damage to the vehicle. However, damage from this type of accident can cause hidden problems for your car. After an accident, you should have your vehicle inspected by a professional. There are several ways that a rear-end collision can affect your vehicle. If you have been hit, here are a few things you need to keep in mind.

 

Look for Hidden Damage

If you are involved in a rear-end accident, there may be little to no damage. Unfortunately, many vehicles have plastic bumpers that can hide damage from an accident. This type of damage is not easily noticeable, but it can cause severe car problems.

Rear-end accidents can cause significant damage to the frame of the vehicle. If the frame is bent, you might not notice it until you take the car to a professional auto body shop. Any damage to the structure creates plenty of issues with the vehicle. In turn, it will be impossible to drive the car. Rear-end damage can also cause problems with the traction control and tires.

Accident damage causes problems with the doors and other vehicle parts. Your doors might not close properly. Other parts of the vehicle will not line up with the rest of the car. Even if the damage does not create immediate problems, you might have issues down the road. Rear-end damage generates stress on the suspension system. As a result, the shocks, struts, and suspension parts begin to wear down.

Hidden Car Damage

Any damage compromises the safety of the vehicle. Your car is designed to handle impacts and accidents. Those components offer some protection for the driver and passengers. If any of these parts are damaged, it may not hold up if you are involved in another accident.

 

Issues With Alignment

After an accident, you might experience some issues with the vehicle’s alignment. A rear-end collision can cause damage to the structure that maintains the vehicle’s alignment. In turn, this damage will affect how the vehicle drives on the road. Alignment issues can cause the vehicle to pull to one side. Your tires might feel like they are not grabbing the road. In icy or rainy conditions, this could be a recipe for disaster. If you notice these problems, you need to have your vehicle inspected.

When you avoid taking care of these issues, your car might experience more severe problems in the future. An improperly aligned vehicle can be harder to maneuver and cause an accident. In other words, you have an unsafe vehicle on the road.

 

Damage To The Trunk

After an accident, your trunk might seem to be in good working order. In some cases, there could be unseen damage. The trunk contains small mechanisms that help it stay closed. A minor accident can damage those mechanisms. As a result, the trunk can pop open as you drive down the road. Your latch might even be difficult to open if there is damage from a rear-end collision.

Once again, you might have issues with the trunk door’s alignment. This damage can make it hard to open or close the trunk. In addition to dealing with this frustrating problem, any gaps can allow water to seep into the trunk area. If this happens to your vehicle, it can damage your belongings. There is also a risk of rust to the inside of your trunk.

Trunk Damage

Electrical Issues

The electrical system of a vehicle can be damaged by a rear-end accident. Any impact can cause the wires to loosen. If there are no problems after the accident, your regular driving habits can separate the wires or cause failures to the rest of the system.

Your tail or brake lights can malfunction. If that happens, it is a dangerous situation on the road. Other drivers might not know if your vehicle is slowing down or stopping. These problems might make it impossible to see your vehicle in low visibility conditions, such as rain or night. Any loose wires can make it difficult for the rest of your electrical features to operate. It might even put stress on the battery.

 

Transmission Problems

A rear-end collision can damage your transmission system. These issues often go unnoticed until the system has failed. In turn, this issue can create more damage to the vehicle as you deal with hefty repair costs. If your car has a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, some of the components are located in the transmission system near the car’s rear. A minor accident can damage or shift these components. If there are any fluid leaks, that can put stress on your transmission.

Rear-end damage is an issue for your exhaust system. The tailpipe is located at the back of the vehicle. When there is a rear-end collision, the impact can push the tailpipe and the exhaust system to the side. You might experience damage to the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and other parts of the exhaust system.

All these hidden issues are common after a rear-end collision. Your insurer adjuster or mechanic might not find all the vehicle’s rear-end damage. As a result, this can pose a severe risk down the road.

Car Transmission

Find A Professional Auto Body Shop

It is essential to take your vehicle to a certified collision expert. Minor accidents may leave little visible damage, but there could be issues lurking under the surface. A certified professional can find these problems and prevent any future issues.

If any damage is missed by a mechanic or insurance adjuster, the insurance company will only pay for the noted damage. You might find damage in the future, but your insurance often will not cover those repairs. However, if you take your car to a certified auto body shop, you are assured that they will address the damage.

Looking For An Auto Body Shop Near Me?

Elmer’s Auto Body is ready to repair your vehicle. We specialize in fixing damage from rear-end collisions. If you want to set up a consultation, give our shop a call at (856) 218-0202.

Top 10 Questions To Ask An Auto Body Repair Shop

After your vehicle has been damaged in an accident, you want to get it repaired as soon as possible. Finding a high-quality auto body shop should be your top priority. By asking a few questions, you can choose the right shop with all the qualifications to work on your specific vehicle.

 

Start Your Search

Online reviews can be a useful resource, but these blurbs don’t answer all your questions. There are times when you have a specific concern or need to find out more about the shop’s services. Here are the top 10 questions you need to ask your auto body repair shop.

 

1 – What Are Your Certifications?

You want to make sure that your shop can handle the job. Certifications assure you that the shop and its technicians are qualified to work on your vehicle. You should look for I-CAR and Assured Performance certifications. These designations mean that the shop has the skills to complete a safe and high-quality repair. All auto body shops will be proud of their credentials, and they will showcase them at the shop.

 

Elmer's Auto Body Certifications

 

2 – Do You Have Experience With My Specific Make And Model?

Whether you own a foreign or domestic model, you want to know that the auto body shop has the experience to fix your vehicle. Many shops are certified by specific car manufacturers. With these certifications, you know that they have the training and expertise to repair your vehicle.

 

3 – Will You Work With My Insurance?

When your vehicle has been damaged, you have to contact your insurance company to fix it. You should choose an auto body shop that has a working relationship with your insurance. In many cases, they can help expedite your claim and make the process easier for you.

 

Auto Insurance Deal

 

4 – What Is The Payment Policy?

Most shops have their payment policies posted for the customers to view. These shops outline their policies regarding the materials, labor rates, warranty information, guarantees, and accepted forms of payment. If you don’t see any of this information listed, you need to ask the shop about their specific policies.

 

5 – Are All The Repairs In Writing?

When you take your vehicle in for a repair, you will receive a written estimate. You should not have work done unless you get an estimate. This piece of paper protects you from any unscrupulous body shops. All professional repair shops put everything in writing and explain the repairs to you. After the work is complete, you will get an itemized bill. If there are discrepancies, you can ask for an explanation from the shop. However, the shop must notify you if the actual work will cost more than the estimate.

 

Repairs In Writing

6 – What Type Of Warranty?

Many reputable shops will back up their parts, labor, and other services with a warranty. You do need to find out what the warranty will cover. In some cases, the warranty might only be valid for a certain amount of time. You want to know that if anything goes wrong with the repair, the shop will take some responsibility.

 

7 – Is My Car Covered In The Shop?

Since you will be leaving your vehicle in the shop, you need to know it is protected from accidents. Many auto body shops carry theft and fire insurance. If the car is destroyed, stolen, damaged, or burglarized, does the shop have insurance for those specific calamities? You can verify the auto body shop’s insurance policies. As the vehicle is getting repaired, you must keep paying your insurance premiums. You want to keep your car protected even if you are not driving it for a few days or weeks.

 

Car Shop Coverage

 

8 – What Is The Estimated Repair Time?

Before you bring in your vehicle, you want to know about the amount of time allocated for the repairs. This answer depends on many factors. The extent of the damage to the vehicle, the auto shop’s schedule, and the availability of parts all play a role in determining your repair time. If your car needs a simple fix, you might be a few days without your vehicle. However, vehicles with severe damage could spend one to several weeks in the shop. You should also know that there can be delays in the repair process. Make sure to plan for all scenarios so that you are not stuck without any transportation.

 

9 – Does The Auto Body Shop Provide Rentals Or Loaner Vehicles?

Everyone depends on a vehicle to get them around town. When you don’t have a car, it can be a major inconvenience. For the most part, you will need a rental vehicle. Some auto body repair shops have a rental car facility near their building. They might even offer a special rate from the local rental companies in the area. In a few cases, the auto body shop has some courtesy cars for their customers. Most shops understand that you need a vehicle for the duration of the repair process. They will work with you to get a rental so that you are not stranded at the shop.

 

Rental Vehicles

 

10 – Will The Paint Match The Rest Of The Car?

Now that you’ve found the right auto body repair shop, you want to know about the quality of work. Most repairs require new paint on the vehicle’s surface. You want to make sure it matches the rest of the car. Professional repair shops use a paint code that is an exact match for your vehicle. However, you can always find out the specific process from your auto body shop.

With these few questions, you can find the right auto body repair shop to fix your vehicle.

 

Find An Auto Body Shop Near Me

If you want a professional repair for your vehicle, make sure to reach out to Elmer’s Auto Body. We have the experience to fix your car and get it back to its original condition. Our team is trained and certified to work on many different makes and models. You can schedule a consultation by calling the shop at (856) 218-0202.

What Is a Fender Bender, and How to Handle One?

When an accident occurs at a low speed, it is often considered a fender bender. The vehicles usually sustain most of the damage to the fenders. As a result, these vehicles need to visit a professional body shop for a fender repair. If you are worried about a fender bender, have no fear. Here are a few things you can do to manage the accident’s impact and get back on the road.

 

Causes Of Fender Benders

No matter the cause of a fender bender, you need to know how to handle these accidents. Fender benders can occur in a variety of ways. It is often the result of distracted driving. A sudden stop in traffic is the leading cause of most fender benders. Blindspots can also lead to an accident. For example, a driver backs out and collides with another car. These everyday situations can cause an accident.

 

How To Deal With A Fender Bender

Unfortunately, there is no standard way to deal with a fender bender. However, if you treat it like any other accident, you can move forward as quickly as possible. You can reduce your risk of a fender bender by avoiding any distractions, keeping your eyes on the road, and parking your car in a safe space. Despite all these precautions, a fender bender can happen at any time. When you know what to do in an accident, you can keep your composure to handle this stressful situation.

 

Steps To Follow After A Fender Bender

A fender bender can be a jarring experience. Here are a few things you should do to keep safe during this time.

 

Always Pull Over

After you have been hit, you want to stop your vehicle and flip on your hazard lights. It is a legal requirement in most states to stop after an accident. You should pull out of the driving lane and proceed to the shoulder or side of the road. If you have hit the car in front of you, make sure to follow the driver’s lead. For those hit from behind, signal to the other driver to follow your vehicle. You want to find a safe spot to exchange information and examine any damage. If you cannot move your car, stay in the vehicle and notify law enforcement.

 

Check On Driver And Passengers

Fender benders can cause injuries. You want to check on everyone involved in the accident. If there are injuries, do not move the person and immediately call 911. In some cases, you will not feel pain right away. However, after a few days, injuries in the neck and back can start to show up. You might even have issues with dizziness and soreness. It is important to visit your doctor after the accident. You want to get checked out by a professional within a day of the collision.

 

Call The Police

You want to call the police after a fender bender. Even if you cannot see any damage to your vehicle, it is vital to get the police involved. Filing a police report can help during the insurance claim process. Depending on the jurisdiction, fender benders will not warrant an immediate response from law enforcement.

Call The Police

Eyewitnesses Are Helpful

If anyone saw the fender bender, you want to get their information. With help from a witness, you can have an unbiased view of the accident, and it can settle disputes between the involved parties. It is vital to jot down the name, address, and phone number of these witnesses. When you have to deal with the insurance company, the claims adjuster usually requests this type of information.

 

Exchange Information

Before the police arrive, it is vital to write down the driver’s name, address, phone number, car description, license plate number, and insurance information. You want to quickly collect this information because some drivers might have a change of heart and refuse to cooperate. It is wise to ask for their driver’s license and insurance card to get their information. Try to gather as much information as possible.

 

Take Photos

Everyone has a camera on their smartphone. After the fender bender, you want to take photos of the damage. In most cases, the insurance company will ask for those photos to determine which driver was at fault for the accident. If possible, make sure to take a close-up picture of the road conditions and all the vehicles involved in the fender bender. When you have to deal with an insurance claim, you will be thankful for these pictures.

 

Take Photos

 

Call Your Insurance Company

It is crucial to call your insurance company and file a claim. You never want to handle repair costs with the other driver by yourself. In some cases, the driver can experience injuries after the accident. When that happens, you might be liable for any medical expenses. You always want to report these types of accidents to your insurance company.

 

Get Your Vehicle Repaired

Once you have submitted a claim, you can get your vehicle repaired. In some cases, the entire fender repair cost will be covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, you want to verify your financial responsibility with your company. After that, make sure to take your car to a professional auto body shop. They will help repair your vehicle and make it look as good as new.

 

How To Prevent A Fender Bender

If you want to prevent an accident, you need to practice defensive driving. There are a few things that you can do to limit the chance of a fender bender, such as:

  • Pay attention to traffic signs.
  • Turn off your phone as you drive.
  • Avoid tailgating and keep a safe distance from other cars.
  • Drive slowly in snow, rain, and other inclement weather conditions.

 

Looking For An Auto Body Shop Near Me?

If you have been involved in an accident, you want to find the right shop for your vehicle. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we can handle a fender repair. Our team will get you back on the road. Need a fender repair near me? You can schedule a consultation for your vehicle by calling our shop at (856) 218-0202.

Elmer's Auto Body