Category: Auto Body Repair

How Much Does Hail Damage Repair Cost?

Picture this: You are caught in a storm and sitting in a parking lot. Next thing you know, Mother Nature decides to unleash more fury in the form of hailstones. Though the hailstones only drop for a couple of minutes, your vehicle is now riddled with unsightly hail damage. This is an obvious headache—and an expense you were not ready for. How much does hail damage cost? Can your car even be returned to its former glory? Let’s find out.

How Much Does Hail Damage Repair Cost?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for how much hail damage repair is going to cost you. There are a number of factors that influence the cost. First off, the extent of the damage. Are there only a couple dents and dings? Or does your vehicle look like it escaped an explosion? The more severe the damage, the more money you are going to have to spend.

Next up, your car’s make and model will play a role. Some vehicles are built with materials that are easier to repair, while others might be a bit trickier.

You also cannot overlook labor costs—if you go to a local auto body shop in NJ. Where you get your car fixed can impact the price too. Don’t be shy to shop around and get multiple quotes from reputable repair shops.

Now, the good news is that if you’ve got comprehensive auto insurance, you might be in luck. Your policy could help cover the cost of those hailstorm wounds. But remember, it all depends on your coverage, and you might still have to deal with a deductible. More on this in a little while.

So, in reality, what is the cost of hail damage repair? On average, hail damage repairs can range from $750 to a whopping $10,000, depending on the number and severity of dents. In New Jersey, hailstones can range from the size of a pea to 1.5 inches in diameter, causing light to moderate hail damage. Usually, the average repair for moderate damage is between $2,000 to $4,000. If your vehicle gets hit with a rare golf ball- or baseball-sized hailstone, the repair cost will skyrocket.

Cost Breakdown Per Dent

As mentioned earlier, the cost of hail damage repair is largely based on the extent of the damage. You may be able to estimate how much hail repair services will cost by figuring out how many dents and dings you have. Generally, the cost breakdown per dent looks like this:

Small Dents: Between $30-$45 per dent
Medium Dents: $45-55 per dent
Large Dents: Over $75 per dent

Can You DIY Hail Damage Repair?

Yes, but probably no. While it’s entirely dependent on the level of hail damage, your experience, and available tools, hail damage repair is not a small undertaking (even if it does save you some money). If you’re curious about DIY repair options, here are a couple of the most common:

Heat Gun Hail Repair

When a vehicle gets a dent—and in the case of hail damage, many dents—the metal surface stretches to some degree. To fix the stretch, remove the dent, and make the car’s surface look normal again, you can use a rapid heating and cooling method. Using a heat gun, each dent can be warmed on a medium/low setting, then quickly treated with a very cold element, such as dry ice.

The idea is that the heat will make the metal surface more pliable and the rapid cooling from the ice will cause the metal to contract, pushing the dent out of the car. However, this method is not foolproof—overheating the vehicle’s surface can damage the paint and make matters much worse.

Suction Pulling

Another, more accessible tool for automotive hail damage repair are suction cup pulling tools. As implied by the name, these tools can be suctioned directly to the dent and then pulled up on to smooth the surface of the car. With many dents, this can be a time-consuming and physically demanding process, and must be done very carefully.

Why You Should Trust a Body Shop with Hail Damage Repair in NJ

Many people worry that going to an auto body shop means getting overcharged for repairs and being left without a vehicle for an extended period of time. If you choose a reliable and reputable auto body shop in New Jersey like Elmer’s Auto Body, you don’t have to worry about that.

Here are some reasons to skip the DIY and use a professional, certified service:

State-of-the-Art Repair Tools: For most hail damage, professional auto body shops can use what is known as paintless dent repair (PDR). The PDR process requires trained technicians to use metal rods of various sizes and shapes to work and push each individual dent out of the vehicle’s surface from underneath.
Highly Certified Technicians: When you let an auto body shop fix any dents or damage to your car from hail, you’re getting serviced by highly trained, certified, and expert-level technicians who have the experience and tools necessary to get the job done right.
Repair Guarantee: Depending on where you take your car, many auto body facilities have repair guarantees. This usually means that they guarantee the quality of the repair for the life of the vehicle or for however long you own it.
Simple Insurance Claims: Working with your insurance company can be a headache, but an auto body shop can coordinate the entire repair process with your insurer. All you have to do is drop off and pick up your freshly repaired car.
Multiple Repair Options: A professional auto body shop will provide many options for repairing the hail damage done to your vehicle. Depending on the extent of the damage, your car may require a few different solutions, such as paintless dent repair, crack repair, filler/glazing, or body panel replacements.

Does Insurance Cover Hail Damage?

It depends on your policy. For those drivers with comprehensive coverage, your hail damage repair is covered. Pay your deductible (usually $100-$1000) and let your provider cover the rest. Don’t worry; your rates won’t budge because hail damage claims are filed as comprehensive, not collision.

Revive Your Ride with Hail Damage Repair in NJ at Elmer’s Auto Body

How much does it cost to repair the hail dents and dings on your car? Anywhere between $750 and $10,000, with the average cost being $2,000-$4,000. Though this may seem like a lot of money, those with comprehensive coverage can have the majority of their hail damage covered by insurance.

Be sure to choose a hail damage repair service from one of the best auto body shops in NJ, like Elmer’s Auto Body. Our exceptional team is certified and experienced in hail damage repair. Whether the damage is light or severe, your car will be as good as new after a visit to our shop. Give us a call at one of our four locations today to set up your appointment.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Dent in a Car?

You got a little too close to the curb or the person next to you decided to ding your door in the parking lot. Owning a car means dealing with unexpected dents and dings—both from Mother Nature and other drivers. Unfortunately, dents in your vehicle are nothing short of an eyesore and can also diminish resale value. But don’t worry. As long as you have a reputable local auto body shop in New Jersey like Elmer’s Auto Body close by, you can have those dents repaired in no time. Of course, that also raises the question of cost, so let’s take a look at how much it costs to repair dents.

What Causes Dents?

Dents can be caused by various incidents and scenarios. Some common causes include:

Minor Collisions: Bumping into another vehicle or a stationary object can leave dents on your car’s body.
Door Dings: In busy parking lots, opening doors of nearby vehicles can lead to small dents on the side of your car.
Hailstorms: Hailstones can cause numerous dents on the surface of your vehicle during severe weather events.
Accidents with Shopping Carts: Errant shopping carts can inflict dents on your car’s exterior, especially in crowded shopping areas.
Low-Speed Collisions: Minor accidents, even at low speeds, can result in dents.

What is the Average Auto Dent Repair Cost?

The cost of dent repair varies depending on several factors. For small, shallow dents of about an inch in size, you might spend around $125 for repairs. Larger dents can start at $150 and go up if the dent is deep or located in a complicated area to fix. Dent repair costs can range from as low as $50 to as high as $2,500, depending on the dent’s size and complexity.

Factors That Influence the Cost for Dent Removal

Several key factors come into play when determining the cost of dent removal:

Size: Larger dents cost more to fix than smaller ones, especially if there’s additional damage to your car.
Dent Location: Dents in hard-to-reach areas, on high-strength steel materials, or spanning multiple parts or panels will increase the repair costs.
Depth: Deeper dents will require more work and thus cost more to remove.
Your Location: Dent repair costs can vary based on your area’s prices and the auto shop you choose.
Make and Model: Luxury vehicles usually incur higher repair costs compared to budget-class cars.

Options for Dent Repair

Now that you know the answer to “How much does dent repair cost?”, it’s time to discuss how to go about getting those dents and dings removed. When it comes to dent repair, you have a few options to consider:

Traditional Dent Repair: This method involves pounding the dent out of the car’s external body and then sanding down the area. It is more economical than replacing panels but should only be done by a professional to avoid further damage and warranty issues. Traditional dent repair is recommended for larger, more extensive damage caused by collisions or severe hail damage.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): PDR is a process where a skilled technician uses specialized tools to reshape the dented area from the inside, without affecting the paintwork. This method is ideal for small to medium-sized dents with intact paint and is usually more cost-effective than traditional repair.
DIY Dent Repair: For small, shallow dents, you may try DIY dent repair kits or tools, which can be more affordable, starting at around $4. However, be cautious as improper techniques may worsen the dent, leading to costlier repairs in the long run.

Can You Visually Estimate the Cost of Dent Repair for Your Vehicle?

Estimating the cost of dent repair for your vehicle can be a bit challenging as it depends on several factors specific to your car and the extent of the damage. However, you can follow these steps to get a rough idea:

Assess the Size and Location: Identify the size and location of the dent. Small dents are generally less expensive to fix, while larger or multiple dents will increase the cost.
Determine the Depth: The depth of the dent matters too. Deeper dents may require more extensive repair work, impacting the overall cost.
Research Local Auto Body Shops: Reach out to local auto body shops and inquire about their dent repair pricing. Many shops offer free estimates, so take advantage of this service.
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Collect quotes from different shops to compare prices and services.

Again, remember the factors that influence the cost of auto dent removal services in New Jersey. For example, larger dents that have a greater depth are going to require more extensive repairs compared to smaller dents that can be removed with PDR.

Looking for an NJ Body Shop with Auto Dent Removal?

Dent repair costs can vary significantly based on various factors, and it’s essential to consider the size and location of the dent, as well as your car’s make and model. On average, it’s around $150, but that cost can go above $2,000. While some small dents can be fixed with DIY methods, it’s best to leave complex repairs to the professionals, like those at Elmer’s Auto Body. When you bring your vehicle in to one of our four locations for collision or dent repair, your satisfaction is guaranteed. Each member of our team is certified and experienced in techniques like paintless dent repair, ensuring that your car’s appearance will be as good as its pre-accident condition upon its return. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form to set up an appointment.

Rebuilding After The Crash: Car Accident Repair Guide, Tips and FAQs

Getting into an auto collision often means repairs. The car accident repair process may seem daunting at first glance, especially when you need to deal with insurance companies. However, understanding the steps, how it is done, and even getting some tips from the professionals can help. That is why we have put together this comprehensive guide to make auto accident repairs less confusing.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you were just in a car accident, the process of getting your car repaired begins with doing things in the correct order. Here are some steps to follow:

Document Everything That Happens

Assuming the accident has come and gone and that you called 911 (which is legally required), there will be an accident report. You can usually get this from the local police station or access it online. In New Jersey, you may need that accident report, depending on how much damage was done to your vehicle.

You will also want to take pictures of the scene, including the vehicles involved, the weather conditions, lighting, and injuries. Make sure to exchange insurance information with the other drivers involved, as well.

Do Not Admit Fault

If you were responsible for the accident, you can say so. However, you should explain using only facts. Do not provide opinions. The insurance companies will be the ones who decide whether you were truly at fault.

Receive Medical Attention, If Necessary

Often, your body is pumped full of adrenaline, even after a minor accident. You may feel fine, but that does not mean you were not harmed in the collision. Even if you do not accept a trip to the hospital, it is important that you make an appointment with your primary care physician.

Call Your Insurance Company

Either while you’re at the scene of the accident or after the fact, you need to contact your insurance company to start a claim. They will also be able to give you an idea of the next steps to take and what to expect from the process.

Find a Collision Repair Shop

Where should you take your car after an accident? Your insurance company may offer a list of preferred shops where you can take your vehicle for repairs, but you are not required to follow their suggestions. You can choose an auto body shop that you’re comfortable with, or search for one in your area. The best auto body repair shops will employ I-CAR certified technicians and have a meticulous repair process.

Understanding the Car Accident Repair Process

Every auto body repair shop may have its unique approach, but the following steps are generally involved when you take your car in for repairs:

Estimate: The shop will assess the damage to your vehicle and provide an initial estimate of the repair costs.
Insurance Approval: The shop submits the estimate to your insurance company for approval. There may be some back-and-forth negotiations during this stage.
Drop-off: Once the estimate is approved, you’ll bring your vehicle to the shop for repairs.
Disassembly: Technicians disassemble the damaged parts and create a repair blueprint.
Order Parts: Replacement parts are ordered, often in coordination with the insurance company, to ensure the best quality and price.
Repairs: Structural and mechanical repairs are carried out. In some cases, this step can begin before the new parts arrive.
Painting: A fresh coat of paint is applied to restore the vehicle to its factory finish.
Reassembly: After painting, the vehicle is fully reassembled.
Detailing: The vehicle undergoes a thorough cleaning, including vacuuming and final touches.
Final Inspection and Delivery: The quality control department inspects the vehicle, and once approved, your car is ready for pickup.

Expert Tips for Car Accident Repairs

Once you have made the insurance claim and found an auto body shop, the process becomes easier. That said, here are some tips from the pros to ensure that everything goes according to plan:

Get Multiple Estimates: Since you are free to choose the auto body shop of your choice, be sure to shop around. Seek estimates from several repair shops to compare costs and services. Avoid choosing solely based on the lowest price.
Insist on OEM Parts: Your insurance company may try to dissuade you, but you should always ask for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts when possible. OEM parts ensure that your vehicle will meet the manufacturer’s safety standards.
Let the Auto Body Shop Handle Insurance Communications: The repair shop should coordinate with the insurance company throughout the repair process, sparing you unnecessary hassle.
Stay Informed: If the technicians find more damage during repairs, ensure they notify you and get approval from the insurance company before proceeding. You should always have the final say in the outcome of your car’s collision repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Repair

Here are some common questions the team at Elmer’s Auto Body receives about car accident repairs:

1. Who pays for car repairs in an accident?

In fault states, your insurance company will cover the other driver’s damages, medical expenses, and lost wages. In no-fault states, each party’s insurance handles their own costs.

2. What happens if the repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value?

Your insurer will decide whether to pay for repairs or offer you the book value of your vehicle (original cost minus depreciation). Most standard policies won’t pay for repairs if the car is declared “totaled.” You can pay for it out of pocket, though.

3. Do I need an appointment to receive an estimate?

In most cases, you don’t need an appointment for an estimate, but it depends on the auto body shop’s policies.

4. What if the auto body shop and insurance company disagree?

This is not your responsibility. The repair shop should take the lead in resolving the issue with your insurance company.

5. What if the vehicle is not mine but leased?

If your vehicle is leased, repairs must follow strict guidelines set by the manufacturer. OEM parts are typically required for leased cars.

Choose the Best NJ Body Shop For Auto Accident Repair

Experiencing a car accident can be distressing, but understanding the car accident repair process and being prepared can make the journey smoother. Take immediate safety measures after an accident, document the scene, and contact your insurance company. Choose a reputable repair shop that meets your needs, and be informed about your insurance coverage. With these insights and expert tips, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the car accident repair journey and get your vehicle back on the road safely.

Elmer’s Auto Body has been a trusted collision repair shop in NJ for many years. Our four locations are ready to serve, as is our highly skilled team. Come see what makes us the best choice for car accident repair. Give us a call or fill out the contact form today to schedule your appointment.

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.

What Size Hail Will Damage a Car?

When you think of all the terrible things that can happen to your car while traveling around New Jersey, one of things that you might forget about is hail. Although New Jersey does not get hail as often as some other states, there is always a chance. Understanding the size of hail that can cause damage to your car is crucial in preparing for and protecting your vehicle during severe weather. Today, you are going to learn what size hail will damage your vehicle, as well as how severe that damage can be.

What are the Different Sizes of Hail?

Do hailstones come in different sizes? The answer is yes! Hail can range from very tiny to large, and that is determined by the size and strength of the storm that forms it. Here are the common categories of hail sizes:

Pea-Sized Hail

These hailstones are around 0.25 inches in diameter, roughly the size of a pea. They are relatively small and usually do not cause significant damage to most structures, including vehicles. However, if accompanied by strong winds, they can still cause minor dents on car surfaces.

Marble-Sized Hail

Marble-sized hail is around 0.5 inches in diameter. While still relatively small, they can cause more noticeable dents and scratches on vehicle surfaces, especially if they are wind-driven.

Quarter-Sized Hail

Hailstones of this size are approximately 1 inch in diameter, roughly the size of a quarter coin. Hail around one inch in diameter has enough density and mass to cause damage to a vehicle’s aluminum or steel surface.

Golf Ball-Sized Hail

At 1.75 inches in diameter, this is a relatively large hailstone that can cause significant damage to vehicles, including dents, chipped paint, and cracked windshields.

Tennis Ball-Sized Hail

Hailstones of this size have a diameter of approximately 2.5 inches, comparable to a tennis ball. These large hailstones can cause severe damage to vehicles, breaking windows and causing extensive dents and scratches.

Baseball-Sized Hail

With a diameter of around 2.75 inches, these hailstones can cause significant damage to vehicles and other structures, often requiring extensive repairs.

Softball-Sized Hail

The largest hailstones can reach diameters of 4.5 inches or more, similar to a softball. Hail of this size can be extremely destructive, causing major damage to vehicles, buildings, and other structures.

What Size Hail Will Damage a Car?

The size of hail necessary to damage a car can vary based on several factors, including the vehicle’s material, wind conditions, and the angle of impact. As a general rule of thumb, hail around one inch in diameter or the size of a quarter has enough density and mass to cause damage to a vehicle’s aluminum or steel surface. Hail smaller than an inch, as long as it is not wind-driven, is less likely to cause significant damage.

However, it’s important to note that even hail smaller than an inch can cause damage if it is accompanied by strong winds or is very dense. When hailstones are propelled by wind, their impact force on the vehicle can increase, leading to dents and scratches on the surface.

How Fast Can Hail Move?

Hailstones are formed when updrafts carry raindrops into freezing levels of the atmosphere, causing them to freeze. Once the hailstones reach a size heavy enough to overcome the force of the updrafts, they fall to the ground. The speed at which hailstones fall depends on their size and the strength of the storm’s updrafts.

Now, why is this important? As mentioned earlier, the speed at which hail falls will also influence how much damage it can cause. Even smaller hailstones can cause damage when they collide with your vehicle at high speeds. Researchers at the National Severe Storms Laboratory estimate that small hailstones, less than 1 inch in diameter, can reach the ground at speeds between 9 and 25 mph. Larger hailstones, such as those greater than 2 inches in diameter, can reach speeds of up to 72 mph.

In the event of high winds and hail, your car is going to suffer damage. Try to get it out of the storm’s path before the hail begins.

How Much Damage Can Hail Cause?

As you have seen in a previous section, the damage caused by hail is relative to its size and speed. Smaller pieces of hail may not cause any damage at all to your car, especially when there is little to no wind. You may hear it pinging off the roof of the car, but it rarely causes damage. Even if smaller hail does ding your car, these dents are usually shallow enough that DIY repair methods work.

Hailstorms with hailstones reaching two inches or larger, combined with strong winds, can cause severe damage to vehicles. The larger and heavier hailstones, propelled by strong winds, can crack paint, break windshields, and even shatter side windows. In such cases, the repair costs can quickly escalate, and the vehicle may require extensive repairs or part replacements.

Additionally, hailstorms with hailstones larger than two inches can lead to what is known as a “wind-driven hail event.” These events can be extremely destructive, similar to tornadoes, as the large hailstones propelled by powerful winds become more like missiles, causing extensive damage to vehicles, buildings, and other structures.

How Do You Repair Hail Damage in New Jersey?

When your vehicle sustains hail damage, prompt assessment and repair are crucial to prevent further damage and maintain its value. For minor dents without chipped paint, paintless dent repair (PDR) is an effective and preferred method. PDR technicians use specialized tools to gently push the dents out from the inside, restoring the vehicle’s appearance without the need for paint or fillers.

For hail damage that includes cracked paint or more severe dents, traditional auto body repairs may be necessary. In such cases, parts may need to be replaced, and the affected areas will be sanded, primed, and repainted to restore the vehicle’s original condition. It’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician like those at Elmer’s Auto Body in New Jersey to determine the extent of the damage and the appropriate repair method.

Need Hail Damage Repair in NJ?

What size hail damages a car? Hailstones of any size can cause damage when driven by wind, but the most destruction begins at around 1 inch in diameter. The extent of hail damage will vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and the materials used in its construction. If your vehicle has been subjected to hail damage, don’t wait for those damages to get worse. Look for a reputable NJ body shop with traditional body repair or paintless dent repair (PDR), like Elmer’s Auto Body.

Whether you need collision repair in NJ or a few dents and dings removed, our team has your back. Call one of our four NJ locations today to set up an appointment or to learn more about our hail damage repair services.

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.