How To Assess Damage To Cars After a Collision
Did you recently get into an accident? After verifying that everyone involved is safe and sound, it’s time to check on your vehicle’s health.
As the go-to specialists for collision repair in Tucson, AZ, we at Formula 1 Collision Center know how to assess damage to cars. Keep reading to learn more.
You can also call (520) 369-4291 when you need car damage assistance.
Assessing Car Damage After an Accident
Before sending the car or truck to a repair shop, follow these steps to inspect accident damage:
Cosmetic Damage
The price for safety is a more fragile exterior. Auto bodies have “crumple zones” that absorb impact to protect occupants. You will likely find dents, paint scratches, and other exterior irregularities in these spots, even from a fairly low-speed collision.
Structural Damage
Cracked or misaligned frames change how your car handles. The outside might seem fine, but you may feel the difference when driving. Also, check for gaps between panels or doors that won’t close properly.
Mechanical Damage
Pop the hood and check for leaks, smoke, strange noises, severed connections, and other signs of damage. These complications may greatly reduce your car’s safety and performance. Don’t ignore any warning lights on your dashboard, either.
How To Receive Proper Car Damage Compensation
Follow these car damage evaluation tips:
Document Everything
Once you handle the more urgent tasks, like attending to injured parties and moving the vehicles to safety, take pictures of all the damage. Don’t forget close-ups of noticeable dents, scratches, or broken parts.
It also never hurts to take notes. Account for the speed of the vehicles, road conditions, and anything else of relevance.
File a Report
Connect with your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most companies impose a 24-hour deadline to file a claim. Just stick to the facts and avoid admitting or accepting fault when speaking to anyone.
You may also have to file an incident report if you didn’t call 911 or the police at the scene.
Get Estimates
Find a reputable shop to assess car damage post-collision. The team should have:
- Experience working with insurance claims
- Consistently positive online reviews
- A fair pricing policy
Always seek a second opinion when something feels off with your car assessor.
Estimating Car Repair Costs
The insurance company will send an adjuster or third-party appraiser to assess damage to the car. These experts know how to evaluate total loss and decide whether repairs are worth it. You’ll receive a benchmark estimate based on the car’s value and the average cost of labor and parts.
The actual costs may slightly differ based on the estimates given by repair shops. The insurer normally requires you to get up to three quotes from different establishments.
Dependable Collision Repair Specialists in Tucson, AZ
What’s an easy way to assess damage to cars? Leave it to the Formula 1 Collision Center crew to make this otherwise harrowing process easier!
Call 520-369-4291 — or read our blog and learn how to determine the car value after accident repair work or for a vehicle repair assessment guide.