What Should I Do After an Accident?
After an accident, there are a few things you need to consider. Fortunately, most people do not experience vehicle collisions frequently and that provides a need for current information when this situation occurs. Like any industry, changes are inevitable, and collision repair is no exception. Once an accident takes place, it will most likely involve dealing with the car insurance claim process, an auto body repair shop and maybe a rental car company. While I have written longer blogs on each of these topics, this piece will include an overview of helpful information with links to other blogs that will explain each subject more in-depth.
What kind of customer service should I expect?
In my opinion, customer service sets businesses apart from other businesses offering the same service. I believe the staff is responsible for creating a pleasant experience and I am convinced it is a reasonable expectation to receive friendly, helpful service from a collision repair facility, car rental agency, and insurance company. Of course, this is easier said than done, many auto insurance companies, car rental agencies, and some auto body shops are large companies doing massive business. Knowing what to ask may help you navigate the collision repair process and make for a smoother experience.
Read more about Collision Repair, Rental Car and Car Insurance after an Accident
Do I need to file an insurance claim?
If the collision repair will not be paid out of pocket, the drivers involved in the accident must call and report the claim (not the Scottsdale auto body shop). The claims agent will ask you questions only you would know the answers to, such as, “When and how did the accident happen?” Once you are issued a claim number and liability is accepted you can proceed to a reliable Scottsdale collision repair facility. The insurance company may recommend their “preferred” repair facilities. Do your homework and choose the right collision repair facility for your vehicle. You have the right to bring your car to the facility of your choice.
How do I get a rental car after an accident?
Tell the claims representative or your insurance adjuster you will need a rental car (providing there is coverage). The insurance representative will make the reservation, which will save you time when you arrive at the car rental store. In addition, your reservation should be set up for direct bill to the insurance company. Be aware there are limits to days or the total dollar amount. If you upgrade or accept optional coverages when renting the car, you will probably be responsible for the extra cost. I also do not advise getting in a rental car before your vehicle is dropped off for auto body repair. Keep in mind there is always a coverage limit and you probably don’t want to end up paying out of pocket.
Read more about Rental Cars After an Accident
How do I choose a reputable Scottsdale auto body shop?
Not all auto body shops are the same. Some focus on fast and economical repairs (these are favorites with some insurance companies). Another category is the “save your deductible” auto body repair shops. This is their gimmick, you will notice these collision repair facilities are usually not in a great part of town and have no certifications. Lastly, you have Scottsdale auto body repair facilities with industry and OEM certifications. These certifications ensure the technicians have annual training, follow proper repair procedures and use the most modern equipment. After considering which type of auto body repair facility is right for your vehicle, check reviews on several platforms. You will be surprised to see some dealership collision repair centers have poor to average reviews. Sometimes good reviews are only on Facebook or Yelp, which is why I recommend checking several platforms to authenticate the real reputation of the Scottsdale collision repair center.
Read more about finding the right auto body shop for your vehicle.
How long will it take to repair my vehicle? 
Please realize that everyone is working together to repair your collision-damaged vehicle, including the insurance company, parts vendors, and the Scottsdale auto body shop. Currently, we are seeing a parts shortage and understaffing in all industries, making the claim process slower than usual. It is important to remember that collision repair centers cannot proceed with repairs or even order a part before insurance approval. While this slows the auto body repair down, a good Scottsdale collision repair shop will want to make sure the vehicle is repaired correctly and thoroughly.
Quality collision repair is not a quick process. Besides waiting for insurance approval and parts, today’s auto body repairs are taking longer to complete because of advanced vehicle technology. Current collision repair technicians are not just “pounding out dents” or replacing parts. Upon impact, sensors and onboard computers are shaken. Which now adds more steps to the repair including wiring and pre and post diagnostic scanning. Vehicle owners cannot only be concerned about aesthetics but also returning the vehicle back to factory safety standards. You will want to be confident that airbags, sensors, driver’s assist, etc are all working as expected.
Read more about Collision Repair, What Do I Need to Know?
Collision repair is a process, but it does not have to be an unpleasant one. Choosing the right Scottsdale collision repair facility from the start can make a world of difference. The collision repair staff should be friendly and willing to answer your questions or at least point you in the right direction. A reputable Scottsdale auto body repair facility will have a good reputation for quality repairs and a lifetime labor warranty. Airpark Collision Center opened in 2006 with a focus on customer service and quality repairs, please stop in or click here for an estimate.
Tina Small has been part of the Airpark Collision Center team since 2006. Working directly with customers, her goal is to share frequent customer questions, and proper methods of collision repair.
