Category: Accident

How to Pick a Body Shop After an Accident

Once you have gotten into an accident, a bunch of stressful and challenging tasks suddenly pop up. The main issue is that you will need to handle the repair process. Among that is the search for a trustworthy and reliable auto body shop in New Jersey to repair your vehicle. Whether your car was in a collision with another vehicle, suffered damage from a weather event like hail, or encountered a collision with a deer, selecting the right body shop is crucial for ensuring a safe and reliable repair. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled some essential tips and questions to consider when picking an auto body shop after an accident.

You Have Options

One of the main questions people ask is if they can choose their own body shop after an accident. The answer is yes. You have plenty of options. Know that you are not obligated to go with the shop recommended by your insurer. While your insurance company may suggest a body shop for your convenience, ultimately, it is your decision where you want your car repaired. In other words, you have three main choices: a dealership collision repair center, an independent auto body shop, and the repair centers affiliated with direct repair programs, or DRPs.

Dealership Collision Repair Centers

Did you purchase your vehicle from a dealership with a body shop attached? This may be a decent option when you need high-quality repairs. Dealerships are usually more familiar with the specific models that they sell, which ensures that the repairs are going to also be done according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Furthermore, dealerships have easier access to factory-authorized parts, sourced directly from their local distribution centers.

The downside to choosing a dealership collision repair center is that it may be more expensive and time-consuming.

Independent Auto Body Shops

An independent auto body shop is not affiliated with a specific brand of vehicle but will instead work on any kind. Many independent auto body shops like Elmer’s Auto Body are I-CAR certified and also certified for collision repair by various manufacturers, ensuring that your car will get the dealership experience, regardless of its make or model. Independent auto body shops are just as capable of receiving OEM parts, though this process may take a bit longer than it would a dealership.

Some independent auto body shops may be connected to your insurer, but if they aren’t, you need to keep that in mind. You will need to work closely with your insurance company to ensure they agree to cover the repair costs at your chosen shop. Plus, if your insurance company’s estimate is lower than the shop’s estimate, you may have to cover the difference out of pocket.

Direct Repair Programs

The main benefit of going along with the auto body shops recommended by your insurer is the convenience. The claims process is streamlined, because the insurance company and the shop have established protocols, making paperwork and communication more straightforward. This also means that DRP shops do not have to wait long for claims approvals. Insurance companies will also negotiate lower repair rates with DRP shops, potentially saving you money on your deductible or out-of-pocket expenses.

This convenience can also be a disadvantage when the DRP shop begins to prioritize cost savings, potentially compromising the quality of repairs and the use of genuine parts. Sometimes this happens because the insurance-recommended shops may follow the insurer’s guidelines more strictly than the car manufacturer’s specifications, leading to potential issues in the future.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Collision Repair Center in NJ

Now that you know your options, let’s discuss what separates a quality collision repair center in NJ from the rest of the competition. There are several factors to consider that will ensure you make the best choice and receive top-quality repairs. Here are those factors:

Certification and Training

Look for a collision repair center that holds certifications from reputable organizations, such as I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) or ASE (Automotive Service Excellence). These certifications indicate that the technicians have received proper training and are skilled in repairing vehicles to industry standards.

Experience and Reputation

Check how long the collision repair center has been in business and inquire about their track record of successful repairs. Online reviews and testimonials from previous customers can provide valuable insights into their reputation and customer satisfaction.

Use of OEM Parts

Ask whether the collision repair center uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts. OEM parts are identical to the parts installed by the car manufacturer and often provide a better fit and performance.

Appearance and Organization

A well-organized and clean repair facility reflects professionalism and attention to detail. An organized shop is more likely to handle your repairs efficiently and maintain a high level of quality.

If possible, visit the collision repair center in person to assess their facilities, staff, and overall impression. This will give you a firsthand look at how they operate and whether you feel comfortable entrusting them with your vehicle.

Ask the Right Questions

When visiting an auto body shop in NJ (or their website) for an estimate, ask key questions to ensure your car will be repaired to its original condition and covered by a comprehensive warranty. Inquiring about the shop’s experience with your car type, their repair process, and the possibility of additional costs after repairs have started will help you make an informed decision.

Here are some questions to below to help guide your conversation so you can pick a body shop you have confidence in:

How soon can you start work on my vehicle? If you need your car repaired promptly, inquire about the shop’s availability to begin work on your vehicle.
How long will the repairs take? Understanding the expected duration of repairs will help you plan for alternative transportation, especially if your insurance policy covers rental car reimbursement.
What is the warranty on the work? Ensure that the shop offers a warranty on the repairs to give you peace of mind that they stand behind their work.
How do you color match paint? Modern auto body shops use computer-driven color-matching technology, but it’s essential to ask about their process, especially for metallic or dark-colored cars.
Who is responsible for payment? If you’re paying for the repairs out-of-pocket, consider whether aftermarket parts might be an option for cost savings. If filing an insurance claim, check if the insurer specifies a particular shop.
Do you use factory-authorized or aftermarket parts? Understanding the type of parts used in the repairs is essential for maintaining the quality of the repair work.
Are you a certified collision facility? Certified collision repair networks ensure that technicians receive proper training to handle the complexities of today’s vehicles.

Schedule an Appointment with a Trusted Collision Repair Shop in NJ Today

How do you pick a body shop after an accident? By prioritizing the safety of your vehicle and your satisfaction. Choose the convenient choice but also the shop that promises to work with you and your insurer, even if they are not part of a DRP program. Elmer’s Auto Body, an I-CAR-certified collision repair center in NJ, has all the services and state-of-the-art equipment required to repair your car and restore it to its pre-accident condition. We never cut corners and always use OEM parts. Give one of our four conveniently located NJ shops a call today to schedule your appointment. Let’s get your car back on the road.

I Just Got Rear-Ended, What Do I Do?

Out of the 6 million car accidents that happen on U.S. roads every year, roughly 40% of them are rear-end collisions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In other words, getting rear-ended is highly common, and so you should learn how to handle the incident accordingly. Today, you are going to learn what to do if you are rear-ended, as well as some tips for choosing the collision repair center in NJ that will fix up your car.

What is a Rear-End Collision?

A rear-end collision is a type of car accident where one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle in front of it. These accidents are typically caused by a trailing driver’s failure to maintain a safe following distance or react in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Rear-end collisions can occur at various speeds, from slow-moving traffic to highway speeds, and can lead to a wide range of damages and injuries.

The physics behind rear-end collisions are relatively straightforward. When a car is moving, it possesses kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. If the car in front suddenly stops or slows down, the trailing car must also reduce its speed to avoid a collision. If the trailing driver fails to apply the brakes in time, their car will continue moving forward, leading to a rear-end impact.

What Causes Most Rear-End Collisions?

Rear-end collisions are often the result of driver negligence or errors in judgment. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of these accidents, including:

Distracted Driving: When drivers divert their attention from the road, whether by using a phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other activities, they are more likely to miss the vehicle in front slowing down or stopping.
Following Too Closely: Tailgating, or driving too closely behind another vehicle, leaves little room for the trailing driver to react in time to sudden changes in traffic flow.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces the stopping distance, making it harder for drivers to react to traffic changes quickly.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, or fog can decrease traction and increase the stopping distance, making it more challenging for drivers to avoid rear-end collisions.
Drowsy Driving: Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them prone to rear-ending other vehicles.
Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, brake-checking, and weaving in and out of traffic increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way at intersections or yield signs may cause rear-end collisions.
Malfunctioning Brake Lights: When the brake lights on the lead vehicle are not working correctly, the trailing driver may not realize that the vehicle is slowing down.

Who is At Fault in a Rear-End Collision?

Determining fault in a rear-end collision is generally straightforward, as the trailing driver is usually considered at least partially responsible. The reasoning behind this is based on the concept of “duty of care.” Drivers have a legal responsibility to follow at a safe distance and maintain control of their vehicle at all times, including the ability to stop if the car in front slows down or comes to a stop.

However, there are certain situations where the lead driver may share some responsibility or be found entirely at fault. For example, if the driver in front reverses suddenly, has malfunctioning brake lights, or engages in risky behavior like abruptly changing lanes without signaling, they may contribute to the collision. Additionally, extreme weather conditions or hazardous road conditions might affect the determination of fault.

It’s essential to collect evidence at the accident scene, such as witness statements, photographs, and police reports, to help determine fault accurately.

I Just Got Rear-End, What Do I Do Now?

Getting rear-ended is a stressful situation. Here are some steps to follow to ensure that everyone stays safe and has their interests protected:

Check for injuries: After the impact, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services.
Call the police: Tell them that, “Someone rear-ended me.” Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to have an official record of the incident. The police will create an accident report detailing the parties involved, the damages, and any injuries.
Take pictures and document the positions of the vehicles: Use your smartphone or camera to take photographs of the accident scene, the damage to both vehicles, and the surrounding area. This documentation can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Exchange information with the other driver: Obtain the other driver’s contact information, insurance details, and vehicle license plate number. Provide them with the same information.
Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and determine the coverage applicable to your situation.
Choose an auto body shop for repairs: After assessing the damage, you have the right to choose any auto body shop for repairs, regardless of the insurance company’s recommendation. This is known as “right to repair.” Select a reputable shop that specializes in collision repairs to ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition.

How Auto Body Shops Repair Rear-End Damage

Rear-end damages may not always appear severe at first glance. However, rear-end damage can translate to issues in other regions of the vehicle, which is why it is important to at least have your car assessed. When you take your car to one of the best auto body shops in NJ, here is how you will be assisted:

Inspection: After a rear-end collision, there may be hidden damage that’s not immediately visible. Auto body shops conduct a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle to identify both visible and concealed damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Frame Straightening: Rear-end collisions can cause the vehicle’s frame to bend or deform. Skilled technicians can perform frame straightening, aligning the frame back to its original specifications
Bumper Repair and Replacement: In many rear-end collisions, the bumper absorbs much of the impact. Auto body shops can repair minor bumper damage, but if the bumper is severely damaged, they may recommend replacing it to ensure your vehicle’s safety.
Paint Matching: Matching the paint color precisely is essential in ensuring a seamless repair. Auto body shops use advanced computerized color-matching technology to achieve an accurate and seamless finish.
Insurance Assistance: A reliable auto body shop can assist you in navigating the insurance process. They can communicate with the insurance company, provide repair estimates, and ensure that your vehicle’s repairs are covered appropriately.

Get Your Vehicle Repaired at a Certified Collision Center in New Jersey

Now you know what to do if you’ve been rear-ended. Stay calm, document everything, and get insurance information, if necessary. From there, get your vehicle to an auto body shop for repairs. By working with a skilled auto body team, like the technicians at Elmer’s Auto Body, you can get back on the road with confidence, knowing that your vehicle has been restored to its pre-accident condition.

Elmer’s Auto Body is conveniently located throughout South Jersey and holds numerous certifications, including I-CAR. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment for inspection or repairs.

Is It Really Worth It To Repair a Fender Bender in NJ?

Fender benders are one of the most frustrating experiences for car owners in New Jersey. Although the damage may be minimal on first glance, there is always a chance that the collision is far from minor. Is it really worth it to repair a fender bender, though? The answer is not always obvious. There are factors to take into consideration, which this article aims to cover. Once you understand why it may be worthwhile to get your fender bender repaired, you can make an educated decision whether to call a body repair shop in NJ.

What is a Fender Bender?

A fender bender refers to a minor accident typically involving low-speed collisions. It often results in cosmetic damage to the fenders, bumpers, and sometimes adjacent panels of a vehicle. While the term “fender bender” may sound relatively harmless, it’s important to recognize that even seemingly minor damage can have implications beyond the surface.

Potential Fender Bender Damages

Let’s take a look at the possible issues caused by a fender bender:

Cosmetic Damage

The most apparent consequence of a fender bender is cosmetic damage to the affected areas of the vehicle. Scratches, dents, or paint chips can diminish the visual appeal of your car. Some fender benders may even cause cracks in plastic components. While these damages may seem insignificant, they can affect your car’s aesthetics, resale value, and overall satisfaction as a car owner.

Functional Issues

Even if an impact is not severe, your vehicle may still have some functional problems afterwards. For example, the collision may cause misalignments or even cause sensors to malfunction. Headlights, taillights, and turn signals may be damaged, making it more risky to drive your vehicle.

Structural Damage

In some cases, a fender bender can result in underlying structural damage. This damage may not be immediately visible but can compromise the integrity of your vehicle. The impact can misalign the frame, suspension, or other critical components, leading to issues with the vehicle’s performance, safety, and handling. It is crucial to have a professional inspection to identify any structural damage that may require repair.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell or trade-in your vehicle in the future, repairing a fender bender becomes significant. Potential buyers are often deterred by visible damage, regardless of its severity. By repairing the damage, you maintain your vehicle’s resale value and increase its appeal to prospective buyers.

This is also important when it comes to lease agreements, as such damages may incur penalties when you go to return the vehicle.

Should You Repair Your Fender Bender?

So, you had a fender bender. Now what do you do? If the damage doesn’t seem too bad, is it worth it to get your vehicle inspected and repaired? Here are some considerations that can help you determine what to do:

Safety and Functionality of Your Vehicle

The main thing you should be concerned about is whether the fender bender has done something to compromise the safety and functionality of your vehicle. There is always a risk that a collision—even a minimal one—causes some kind of impairment. As such, if you believe that your car is not going to be safe for commuting, it is best to have it inspected by an automotive technician to see what misalignments and other issues are present. Even if it feels like nothing is wrong, checking off the box that your car is safe to drive and is not a risk is essential not only for you and your passengers but to others on the road.

Personal Satisfaction

As mentioned above, cosmetic damages are common in fender benders. Missing patches of paint, dents, cracks, and other marks may be left behind after a fender bender that take away from the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. Being that most people select their vehicle based on how it looks, any deduction from your personal satisfaction counts as a reason to have the cosmetic issues repaired. After all, your peace of mind is worth it.

On the other hand, even if you did not personally mind a scratch or ding or your vehicle, someone else might. If you are planning on trading in or selling your vehicle in the future, it may be smart to boost your car’s resale value by having the cosmetic damages of the fender bender repaired.

Professional Inspection and Recommendations

Consult with a reputable mechanic or body shop to assess the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. They can identify hidden damages and offer professional advice on the necessity of repairs. Their expertise will guide you in making an informed decision.

Insurance Coverage

Review your insurance policy to understand the coverage and deductible for collision repairs. If the cost of repairing the fender bender falls within or slightly exceeds your deductible, it may be worth filing a claim and having the repairs covered by your insurance.

Looking For Fender Bender Repair in NJ?

Is it really worth it to repair a fender bender in New Jersey? It depends on the extent of the damage and your personal preferences. Keep in mind that, while some damages may appear minor at first, they can have long-term implications on your vehicle’s safety, functionality, and resale value. Consulting with professionals and understanding your insurance coverage will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities.

If you had a fender bender in South Jersey and are looking to have your vehicle assessed and repaired, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We are consistently rated one of the best body shops in NJ. Our experienced team is highly trained and certified by multiple manufacturers to return your car to its pre-accident state. Give one of our locations a call today or fill out the contact form to request more information or schedule an appointment.

Front-End Collision Repair vs. Rear-End Collision Repair

Automobile accidents are an unfortunate reality that comes with driving a car, and collisions can occur from different angles, such as the front or rear of a vehicle. Each type of collision presents unique challenges for repair technicians, as the impact points and damages differ significantly. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between front-end and rear-end collision repairs, highlighting their distinct characteristics, repair processes, and potential implications for vehicle owners.

Front-End Collision Repair

Front-end collisions typically occur when a vehicle collides head-on with an object or another vehicle. These accidents often result in substantial damage to the front of the vehicle, including the hood, bumper, grille, headlights, and engine components. The impact may also affect the suspension, frame, and alignment. Most commonly, drivers find that their vehicle’s entire driving system has been damaged, including the CV axles, drive shaft, and transaxle. Since these pieces cannot usually be straightened, they must be replaced.

Repairing a front-end collision involves a comprehensive assessment of the damage, often starting with a thorough inspection to identify structural issues. The repair process may include:

Disassembly

The damaged components are carefully removed to evaluate the extent of the damage and assess the underlying structures. Disassembly could be necessary because there may also be hidden damage from a front end collision that you may not be able to see at first, including (but not limited to); Transmission damage, engine damage, or even suspension or frame damage.

Structural Repairs

If the frame or core structures are compromised, specialized equipment is used to realign or replace damaged parts to restore the vehicle’s structural integrity.

Component Replacement

Damaged parts, such as the bumper, grille, hood, headlights, and radiator, may need to be replaced to ensure proper functionality and aesthetics.

Mechanical Repairs

The collision might affect mechanical components, such as the steering, suspension, or braking systems, which require a thorough inspection and repair.

Paint and Finishing

After all repairs are complete, the vehicle is primed, painted, and finished to match the original color and appearance.

Rear-End Collision Repair

Rear-end collisions usually occur when a vehicle is struck from behind by another vehicle. The damages in such accidents primarily affect the rear section of the vehicle, including the trunk, rear bumper, tail lights, and sometimes the rear frame.

The repair process for rear-end collisions typically involves:

Assessment and Disassembly

The damage is assessed, and the affected components, such as the rear bumper and trunk, are carefully removed to evaluate the underlying damage.

Structural Repairs

In severe cases, where the rear frame or other structural elements are damaged, repairs may be necessary to restore the vehicle’s integrity.

Component Replacement

Damaged parts like the rear bumper, tail lights, and trunk may require replacement to ensure proper functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Bodywork and Finishing

Skilled technicians meticulously repair and restore the damaged areas, preparing them for painting and finishing to match the original appearance.

Which Causes More Damage—Front-End or Rear-End Collisions?

Generally, front-end collisions tend to be more damaging (and deadly). Even head-on collisions done at lower speeds can end up totaling your vehicle. On the other hand, read-end collisions are usually caused by one moving car crashing into the rear of one at a stop light. Since the vehicle that has been hit is not moving, the force behind the moving vehicle is not as catastrophic.

That said, both collisions will cause problems, not matter how small the accident. The type of collision and the subsequent repairs can have various implications for vehicle owners, including:

Safety considerations: Both front-end and rear-end collisions can impact the safety systems of a vehicle. It is crucial to have all safety features, such as airbags and sensors, inspected and restored to their optimal condition.
Resale value: Properly repaired front-end or rear-end collisions can help maintain a vehicle’s resale value. However, inadequate repairs or visible signs of damage can significantly impact its market worth.
Insurance claims: Understanding the differences between front-end and rear-end collision repairs can help vehicle owners navigate insurance claims more effectively. Having a clear understanding of the damages and repair requirements can ensure accurate estimates and coverage.
Alignment and drivability: Front-end collisions can affect the alignment and drivability of a vehicle. Proper alignment and calibration are necessary to ensure smooth handling and prevent additional wear on tires and suspension components.

Choose Elmer’s Auto Body For Your Collision Repairs

When it comes to front end collision damage versus rear end collision damage, it is clear that both types of accidents require specific expertise and techniques to restore the vehicle to its pre-accident condition. Whether it’s the extensive damage to the front end caused by a head-on collision or the rear section affected by a rear-end collision, professional repair services are crucial to ensure safety, functionality, and aesthetics.

Elmer’s Auto Body has over 75 years of experience in repairing both front-end and rear-end collision damage. Our highly skilled technicians have the knowledge and expertise to handle your vehicle with careful precision. We also pride ourselves in being a certified collision repair center for many popular manufacturers, including Kia, Hyundai, and Tesla. By relying on Elmer’s, the best body shop in New Jersey, you can have peace of mind.

Furthermore, Elmer’s Auto Body understands the importance of safety and ensures that all safety systems and components are thoroughly inspected and restored to their optimal condition. Our team also prioritizes alignment and drivability, ensuring that vehicles handle smoothly and are safe to drive after repairs.

Let’s restore your vehicle to its former condition. Give us a call today or send us a message online to schedule your appointment.

What Gets Damaged In A Front End Collision?

Introduction

A front-end collision is just about the worst type of automobile accident, at least in terms of the risk to the people involved. These kinds of crashes are much more likely to result in serious injuries and fatalities, especially if one or both vehicles were traveling at a high speed. However, assuming that you are not seriously injured in an accident like this, your next priority will likely be to assess the damage done to your vehicle. So, what gets damaged in a front-end collision?

The Bumper

For the sake of simplicity, let’s start at the front of the car and work our way backwards. When you are hit from the front, your bumper will generally take the first and worst of the initial impact. Thankfully, bumpers are made to withstand impact damage, but only to a certain degree. In a serious collision, the bumper will certainly be bent and may even be snapped in two.

It should be noted that many newer vehicles have a “hidden” bumper. This means that you cannot directly see the bumper, as it is covered by the panels of the vehicle’s exterior body. However, these panels are just thin plastic, so don’t expect them to survive a collision. Even if your bumper survives the damage, the outer panels probably won’t.

The Front Grille, Headlights, Fan, And Radiator

Again, assuming that you are hit directly from the front, the other vehicle will most likely damage your front grille. It may also damage the front end of your vehicle’s body, depending on the exact angle of impact. Most serious collisions will also result in damage to one or both of your headlights.

So, whenever there is serious damage to the front grill, you need to think about the parts that are just behind that grill. This is usually be the radiator and the fan attached to it. They are two parts, but they work together, so one is right behind the other.

Most front-end collisions will cause damage to your vehicle’s radiator, simply because it’s located front-and-center. In some cases, the fan and radiator can even be crushed together so badly that they become one single piece. This isn’t as crazy as it sounds, because radiators are made of relatively soft aluminum, and radiator fans are made of thin steel or plastic.

Windshield And Hood Damage

Of course, the windshield and hood are also likely to be damaged in a front-end collision. A strong impact can easily send parts and debris flying, so windshields are frequent casualties. When you are involved in a front end car accident, car hoods don’t usually escape without damage either.

The Frame Of The Vehicle

Now we’re getting into serious damage territory. When your vehicle has suffered frame damage, it will often be impossible to fully repair the damage. However, if the frame is only slightly bent, it can probably be repaired. A skilled auto body technician can safely bend the offending piece back into shape and reinforce the spot for extra protection. If the frame of the vehicle is actually broken, or if it has been bent more than 45 degrees (that’s a diagonal angle, in case you’re wondering), the vehicle will be considered totaled.

No matter how much you like a particular vehicle, it isn’t worth the risk of driving around with a damaged frame. Such damage can throw your whole alignment out of whack, making it difficult to drive on a straight trajectory. Obviously, that can easily cause an accident. And, if it does cause an accident, your weakened frame will not give you the same protection that you had before. For these reasons, serious frame damage means that the car is done.

Engine And Transmission Damage

This kind of damage is almost as serious as frame damage. However, the difference here is the fact that an engine can be replaced. You can’t really replace a vehicle’s frame because it’s the most basic part of the vehicle. It is generally quite expensive to have your engine replaced, both in terms of parts and labor, but at least you have the option. A transmission (if ruined) is even more expensive to replace, but the vehicle cannot function without one, so there isn’t much choice if you want to save the car.

As we said earlier, there are times when the impact of a front-end collision will crush all the front-and-center parts together. This will include the fan and radiator, and most vehicles have parts in front of the engine such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, and several belts to make everything run together.

If the impact is severe enough, all these forward parts can be shoved back into the engine itself. Since the engine will most likely be running when that happens, you can just imagine the damage that will occur. Now, understand that the transmission is connected to the engine, and you can figure out the rest.

The good news is that most minor collisions don’t require an engine replacement. Your engine is (usually) located in the front end of a vehicle, but it usually isn’t right in the front, so there are quite a few parts that can absorb the impact before it reaches your engine. It takes a pretty serious impact to permanently ruin your engine and/or transmission.

Conclusion

These are just some of the most common types of damage that you might see after a front-end collision. To find out the full extent of the damage, you will need to have the vehicle assessed by a qualified and certified body shop. But, you might be asking, “Where can I find the best auto body shop near me?” The answer is Elmer’s Auto Body. Whether you need front end collision repair or any other sort of bodywork, we take pride in giving every customer the care they deserve. To find out more, call Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.

What’s The Process After a Car Accident?

Being involved in a car accident is a nightmare for most people. Not only is the situation highly stressful, but you may find yourself soon overwhelmed with all the things you have to do immediately afterwards. If you are involved in a collision, it is important to stay calm. This article will guide you through the crucial actions to take after a car accident so you can navigate the process successfully. Let’s get started.

Ensure Safety

The first and foremost priority after a car accident is to ensure the safety of all parties involved. Move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, away from traffic. If it’s not safe to move the vehicles, turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles to alert other drivers. Check yourself and others for injuries and, if necessary, call for medical assistance immediately. Remember, your safety and the safety of others is of utmost importance.

Contact Local Authorities

After ensuring safety, it is generally advisable to contact the local authorities, such as the police or highway patrol, to report the accident. They will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official report. This report is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings, providing an objective record of the accident. Cooperate with the authorities, provide them with accurate information, and follow their instructions.

Document Everything

While at the scene of the collision, it is also crucial to gather accurate information and document the accident for insurance purposes. Collect details from all parties involved, including names, contact information, license plate numbers, insurance information, and vehicle descriptions. You want to know the make, model, color and year of each vehicle. Additionally, if there are witnesses, obtain their contact information as well.

Use your smartphone or a camera to take photos of the accident scene from various angles, capturing the position of vehicles, road conditions, and any visible damage. Document any visible injuries as well. These records will serve as crucial evidence during the claims process.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly contact your insurance company to report the accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident, including the date, time, location, and a description of what happened. Be prepared to provide the information of the other parties involved and any witnesses. Follow the instructions given by your insurance company regarding the claims process. Document the date, time, and details of your conversation with the insurance representative for future reference.

Overview of the Claims Process

Once you have made your initial call, the claim proceeds as such:

Claims Adjuster Assignment: Your insurance company will assign an adjuster once you have reported the incident. This individual is responsible for investigating your accident, assessing the damages, and determining how much will be covered by insurance.
Accident Investigation: The claims adjuster then begins investigating. They may review the official report, pictures, video, and speak with the parties involved.
Damage Assessment: Following the accident investigation, the claims adjuster assesses the damages to your vehicle. This may involve visiting a repair facility or requesting an estimate from a qualified body shop. They will consider the repair costs, the vehicle’s pre-accident value, and any applicable deductibles to determine the amount of compensation for repairs.
Liability Determination: This determination affects the insurance coverage and potential compensation amounts. In some cases, liability may be shared among multiple parties.
Settlement Negotiations and Agreement: Once the claims adjuster has gathered sufficient data, they then enter into negotiations for medical expenses, vehicle repairs, property damage, and more. Usually, there is much back and forth before settlement is achieved. Review the agreement carefully before signing. It is advisable to consult with an attorney, especially in complex cases, to ensure your rights are protected.
Payment and Repairs: With the agreement signed, you may receive payment directly or be sent to a repair facility, depending upon the terms. You can then receive the repairs.
Closing the Claim: Once the repairs are completed and all expenses have been accounted for, the claims process is finalized. The insurance company will close the claim and may request any necessary documentation or invoices to support the expenses incurred.

Notify the NJ Division of Motor Vehicles

In the state of New Jersey, it is mandatory to notify the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles (NJ DMV) within 10 days of an accident if it resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Visit the NJ DMV website or contact their office to understand the specific reporting requirements and submit the necessary documentation. Failure to report the accident within the designated timeframe may result in penalties or consequences.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you were able to walk away from the accident, you should consider seeking medical attention. Whiplash and internal trauma are just a couple of injuries that do not manifest immediately. Consider receiving a medical evaluation as soon as you can. Explain that you were involved in a motor vehicle collision and would like to provide a detailed account of what happened, including any symptoms you may be experiencing.

For insurance purposes, it is best if you follow the recommended treatments outlined by the medical professionals tending to you. Be sure to also keep any medical reports and bills that you receive. Depending on the severity of the collision, you may need these documents for court.

Get Repairs at an NJ Body Shop

So your claim has begun, you have gotten your payment, and now you are ready to get your vehicle to the best body shop in NJ for repairs. Typically, when going through your insurance company, you will need to bring your vehicle in for an initial assessment of damages. Afterwards, you can seek insurance approval. Choose a repair shop that will work with your insurance company to obtain approval for the repairs, such as Elmer’s Auto Body.

The Repair Process After an Accident

Here is an overview of how a body shop handles your vehicle’s repairs post-collision:

Disassembly and More Inspection: Once the repair process begins, the damaged areas of your vehicle may need to be disassembled to assess the full extent of the damage. This allows the technicians to identify any underlying issues that may not be immediately visible. They will update the estimate if necessary and communicate any additional repairs required to both you and the insurance company.
Receipt of OEM Parts: Should anything need to be replaced, the auto body shop will order them directly from the manufacturer or authorized supplier. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we ensure that only genuine parts are used.
Structural Repairs: If the accident caused structural damage to your vehicle, specialized equipment and techniques will be used to restore its structural integrity, including realignment or re-straightening of the frame.
Body Repair and Painting: The damaged body panels will be repaired or replaced to restore the exterior appearance of your vehicle. The technicians will use techniques such as dent removal, panel replacement, and body filler application to smooth out imperfections. Afterward, the repaired areas will be prepped, primed, and painted to match the original color of your vehicle.
Mechanical and Electrical Repairs: This may include repairing the engine, suspension, brakes, or addressing any issues with the vehicle’s electrical system.
Reassembly and Quick Checks: Once repairs are complete, the technician will go through quality checks to make sure that the vehicle is functional and meets industry standards.
Retrieval: Once the repairs and detailing are finished, the repair shop will notify you that your vehicle is ready for pickup. Take the time to inspect the repairs and ensure your satisfaction. If any concerns arise, discuss them with the repair shop, and they should address them promptly.

How Long Does This Process Take?

Knowing what to do after a car accident is only part of the process. Estimating how long it will take is another factor to keep in mind. Unfortunately, there is no way to approximate the timeframe, as the duration will change depending on your circumstances.

Generally, however, reporting the accident and opening a claim only takes a few hours or days after the accident. As soon as that is in, the initial assessment will occur in a few days or up to a week after. Depending on the severity of the damages to your vehicle, the repairs may take several weeks. Additionally, external factors like the workload of the repair shop and the need for specialized services can impact the timeline.

Once the repairs are completed, the repair shop will provide an invoice to the insurance company for payment. The payment processing and closing of the claim can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the efficiency of the insurance company’s internal processes.

Looking For an NJ Body Shop For Collision Repair?

Knowing what to do after a car accident is crucial for a smooth recovery process. When it comes to collision repairs in New Jersey, Elmer’s Auto Body stands out as the epitome of excellence. With our unwavering commitment to exceptional service, expert craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, our team has earned the reputation as the best body shop in NJ.

Rest assured that by following the right procedures and choosing a trusted establishment like Elmer’s Auto Body, you can navigate the aftermath of a car accident with confidence and have your vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition. Give us a call today to schedule your assessment or repair or fill out the contact form.