Fixing Your Vehicle After a Car Accident

If you have recently been involved in a serious car accident, we understand that you are likely dealing with a lot, not the least of which may be a damaged vehicle that can no longer get you from point A to point B. Below are some tips for making the right decisions regarding auto repairs, and also ways to protect your right to compensation after a car wreck.

Vehicle damage after a car accident can range from small scratches to total loss. If you have collision coverage (and not just liability) on your insurance policy, your insurance company may suggest preferred auto body shops to handle your repairs; however, you can take your car to any mechanic and receive a quote. When choosing a repair shop, remember to look for one that is certified with at least AAA, the Better Business Bureau and ASE.  If your insurance company accepts the quote, you are free to use that collision shop for repairs.  While some people may be tempted to not repair their vehicle if the damage is relatively minor, it is a good idea to go ahead and get the repairs done.  You have not only paid for the collision coverage for this specific reason, but your insurance company may require you to repair the vehicle after the accident in order to maintain your collision coverage.  

Depending on the extent of damage to your vehicle, you have options:

• If your car is drivable, take it to a collision shop for an inspection. (Not all general repair shops handle auto body work.) Because some problems may not be visible, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is safe to keep driving.
• If your vehicle is not drivable, have it towed directly to a mechanic or auto body shop. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle before it is towed away. You may have coverage on your insurance policy for a rental vehicle while your car is not drivable, but in many cases your insurer will reimburse you for the cost of the rental car rather than pay for it up front. We can help evaluate your coverage.
• If your car is totaled, you may have it taken to a salvage yard, or your insurance company may suggest other options. Again, if possible, always take pictures of the damage to your vehicle prior to it being removed from the accident scene.

It is important to take photos of the damage to your vehicle because your car is likely one of the most important pieces of evidence as to the circumstances of your accident. An injury claim can depend significantly on the amount of damage sustained and the condition of your vehicle after the collision.

After a car accident, fixing your vehicle will be a priority, but it may be something you are not sure how to handle to your maximum benefit. The legal team at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta can help. Please call us at (404) 460-0101 to confidentially discuss your next best steps.