The Complete Guide to Collision Repair: What to Do After an Accident
The Complete Guide to Collision Repair: What to Do After an Accident
🚗 Introduction
A car accident—whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision—can leave you feeling shaken, frustrated, and uncertain about what to do next. Between insurance claims, auto body repairs, and dealing with unexpected expenses, the post-accident process can be overwhelming if you don’t have a clear plan.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
At Automed Collision, we understand how stressful collisions can be, and we’re here to make the repair process as smooth and hassle-free as possible. With our expert technicians, state-of-the-art repair facility, and insurance claim assistance, we help drivers throughout Los Angeles get back on the road quickly and safely.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
What to do immediately after an accident to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
How to handle the insurance claim process without unnecessary delays.
How to choose the right collision repair shop (hint: not all body shops are created equal!).
A step-by-step breakdown of the auto body repair process so you know exactly what to expect.
Post-repair care tips to keep your car looking flawless for years to come.
🚀 By the end of this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to handle any collision situation with confidence.
Let’s get started!
🚨 Step 1: What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
A car accident can happen in a split second, and the aftermath can be chaotic. Whether it’s a minor scrape in a parking lot or a major collision on the freeway, knowing what to do next can protect your safety, finances, and legal rights.
✅ Actions to Take Right After the Collision
If you’ve been involved in an accident, follow these steps immediately to ensure everyone’s safety and to properly document the incident.
1️⃣ Check for Injuries and Call 911 If Needed
Your top priority should always be safety. Take a deep breath and check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
🚑 If anyone is injured:
Call 911 immediately and request medical assistance.
Do not move anyone who is injured unless it’s absolutely necessary (e.g., if there is a fire risk).
🚦 If no one is injured:
Move on to the next steps to ensure a smooth post-accident process.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you feel fine, be aware that some injuries, like whiplash, may not show up immediately. If you feel pain later, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
2️⃣ Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If the accident is minor and the vehicles are still drivable, move them to a safe spot to avoid further danger.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Move to the shoulder, a parking lot, or a side street if possible.
If the cars are disabled, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
🚨 DO NOT move your car if:
❌ The crash is severe, and there are injuries.
❌ There is significant damage, and moving the vehicle might cause further harm.
❌ You suspect a mechanical issue (e.g., leaking fluids, smoke, or a broken axle).
3️⃣ Call the Police and File a Report
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to get an official police report—especially for insurance claims.
👮 When to call the police:
✅ If the accident involves injuries or major vehicle damage.
✅ If there is a dispute about who is at fault.
✅ If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or refuses to cooperate.
✅ If public property (road signs, light poles) is damaged.
🔹 In Los Angeles, police might not respond to minor fender benders, but you can still file a report at the nearest police station.
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask the responding officer for a copy of the police report or the case number to help with your insurance claim.
4️⃣ Document the Accident Scene Properly
Evidence is key when dealing with insurance companies or legal matters. Make sure to gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene.
📸 Take clear photos of:
All vehicles involved, including license plates.
Vehicle damage from multiple angles.
The accident scene, including traffic signs, intersections, and road conditions.
Visible injuries (if applicable).
💡 Pro Tip: If you have a dashcam, save the footage immediately as it can be used as evidence for your claim.
5️⃣ Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)
Politely exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. Here’s what you need to collect:
Full name and contact information
Driver’s license number
Insurance company and policy number
Vehicle make, model, and year
License plate number
🚨 What NOT to say at the scene:
❌ Never admit fault, even if you think you caused the accident.
❌ Avoid saying "I'm sorry" as this could be used against you in an insurance claim.
❌ Do not discuss the accident in detail with the other driver—just exchange necessary information.
💡 Pro Tip: If the other driver is uncooperative or does not have insurance, let the police handle the situation and report it to your insurance company immediately.
6️⃣ Look for Witnesses and Gather Their Information
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their contact details:
Full name & phone number
A brief statement of what they saw
Witness statements can be valuable for insurance claims and disputes over fault. If a witness agrees to record a video statement on your phone, even better!
💡 Pro Tip: If the accident happened near a business or traffic camera, ask if security footage is available.
7️⃣ Decide Whether to Drive or Tow Your Car
After assessing the damage, determine if your car is safe to drive or if you need a tow truck.
🚗 Safe to drive if:
✔️ The damage is minor (e.g., small dents or scratches).
✔️ The airbags did not deploy.
✔️ The car starts and drives normally without leaks or unusual noises.
🚨 Call a tow truck if:
❌ Your car has significant front-end or undercarriage damage.
❌ The steering, brakes, or engine aren’t functioning properly.
❌ You see fluid leaks, smoke, or warning lights on the dashboard.
💡 Pro Tip: If your car needs towing, request that it be taken to a trusted body shop like Automed Collision instead of an impound lot to avoid storage fees.
📞 Step 2: Filing an Insurance Claim After an Accident
Once you've handled the immediate aftermath of a collision, the next critical step is filing an insurance claim to cover your vehicle repairs. Understanding the insurance claim process ensures you don’t get shortchanged by your insurance company and helps you get your car repaired quickly and properly.
At Automed Collision, we’ve worked with all major insurance companies and understand how to navigate claims efficiently for our customers. Below, we break down the entire insurance process, from reporting the accident to getting approval for repairs.
✅ 1. Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP
Insurance companies often require prompt reporting after an accident. Many policies have a 24- to 48-hour window to report a claim, so don’t delay.
📞 When calling your insurance provider, be prepared to provide:
Your policy number
The date, time, and location of the accident
Names and contact details of all involved parties
A brief description of what happened
The police report number (if available)
Photos of the accident scene and damage
🚨 Pro Tip: Stick to the facts when explaining the accident. Avoid saying things like, "I caused the accident," even if you believe you were at fault. Let the insurance company determine fault based on evidence.
✅ 2. Understanding Your Coverage: Collision vs. Liability Insurance
Not all policies cover collision repairs the same way. Understanding your insurance coverage is essential before proceeding with repairs.
🔹 Liability Insurance (Basic Coverage)
Covers damage to the other driver’s vehicle (if you were at fault).
Does NOT cover your own vehicle’s repair costs.
Required by law in California but not enough for full coverage.
🔹 Collision Coverage
Pays for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who was at fault.
Typically requires you to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in.
🔹 Comprehensive Coverage
Covers damage from non-collision events like theft, vandalism, falling objects, or weather-related damage.
🔹 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
Protects you if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured.
💡 Pro Tip: If the accident was not your fault, you may have the option to file a claim through the at-fault driver’s insurance instead of your own. However, this process can take longer than filing through your own policy.
✅ 3. Dealing with the Insurance Adjuster
Once your claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will be assigned to assess the damage and determine how much the insurance company is willing to pay for repairs.
What to Expect from the Adjuster:
They will inspect your vehicle’s damage (either in person or via photos).
They may request a repair estimate from an auto body shop.
They will determine if the vehicle is repairable or a total loss.
They will issue a settlement amount based on their assessment.
🚨 Warning: Insurance companies often undervalue repair costs to save money.
How to Ensure You Get a Fair Estimate
Get your own estimate from a trusted repair shop (like Automed Collision).
Compare their payout vs. the actual repair cost—don’t accept lowball offers.
If needed, negotiate with evidence, including third-party estimates, industry repair standards, and documentation from a professional auto body shop.
💡 Pro Tip: You have the legal right to choose your own repair shop. Insurance companies may suggest their "preferred" repair shop, but you’re not obligated to use them.
✅ 4. Is Your Car a Total Loss? What Happens Next?
If your car’s repair cost exceeds its actual cash value (ACV), the insurance company may declare it a total loss.
How Is a Vehicle Declared a Total Loss?
If repair costs are 70% or more of the vehicle’s market value, insurance may "total" the car.
If deemed a total loss, the insurance company pays you the car’s estimated value, minus your deductible.
What Are Your Options?
Accept the payout and buy a new car.
Negotiate for a higher payout if the valuation is too low (provide recent sale listings for similar vehicles).
Keep the vehicle as a “salvage title” and pay for repairs out of pocket.
🚨 Pro Tip: If your vehicle is totaled but still drivable, consider getting a second opinion from an independent repair shop before accepting the settlement.
✅ 5. Choosing the Right Collision Repair Shop (And Why It Matters)
Once your claim is approved, it’s time to get your car repaired. But choosing the right repair shop can mean the difference between a flawless factory-like repair and shoddy work that lowers your car’s resale value.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Go with the Insurance-Recommended Shop
Many insurance-recommended body shops:
❌ Use aftermarket or salvaged parts instead of original factory parts.
❌ Focus on quick turnaround over quality, rushing jobs.
❌ May skip critical repairs to save costs for the insurer.
At Automed Collision, we prioritize quality, safety, and proper repair techniques to restore your car to factory specifications.
Why Choose Automed Collision?
Certified technicians trained in OEM factory standards.
We work with all major insurance companies while advocating for your best interests.
We only use original manufacturer (OEM) parts—no cheap aftermarket alternatives.
Lifetime warranty on repairs for your peace of mind.
📞 Call 323-735-9368 or visit Automed Collision to schedule your repair today!
🔧 Step 3: Understanding the Collision Repair Process
Once your insurance claim is approved and you’ve chosen a trusted auto body shop, your car’s repair process begins. But what exactly happens behind the scenes?
At Automed Collision in Los Angeles, we follow a meticulous, factory-grade process to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition. This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything that happens in a professional collision repair shop, so you know what to expect and can feel confident about your car’s repairs.
✅ 1. Initial Damage Inspection & Repair Estimate
Before any repairs begin, trained technicians conduct a full damage inspection to determine the extent of the damage.
How the Damage Assessment Works
Visual Inspection – Examining dents, scratches, misaligned panels, and paint damage.
Structural Analysis – Using diagnostic tools to check for frame damage or alignment issues.
Hidden Damage Check – Some issues (like bent suspension components or cracked radiator supports) aren’t visible without disassembly.
Computerized Scanning – Modern cars have sensors and safety features that require recalibration after a collision.
Once the inspection is complete, the shop provides a detailed repair estimate, outlining:
📌 Cost of repairs (labor, parts, materials)
📌 Parts that need replacement (OEM vs. aftermarket)
📌 Estimated repair time
💡 Pro Tip: Always request an itemized estimate and ask whether OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are used—Automed Collision always prioritizes OEM parts for top-quality repairs.
✅ 2. Disassembly & Identifying Hidden Damage
After approval, the repair shop will begin disassembling damaged areas to:
Remove damaged bumpers, fenders, doors, or panels.
Check for underlying frame or suspension damage.
Identify hidden issues that weren’t visible during the initial inspection.
🔹 Why This Step Is Important:
Some internal damage is only revealed once exterior panels are removed.
Ensures structural integrity and safety systems are fully checked.
Helps prevent future mechanical issues caused by undetected damage.
💡 Pro Tip: Many insurance estimates don’t account for hidden damage. This is why working with a trusted repair shop is crucial—they will document everything and ensure the insurance company covers the full repair.
✅ 3. Structural Repairs & Frame Alignment
If the accident caused frame damage, specialized repair equipment is required to restore your car’s structure to factory specifications.
How Frame Repair Works:
Computerized Frame Straightening – Measures the frame and adjusts it to exact manufacturer dimensions.
Hydraulic Pulling Machines – Restores bent or crushed sections without weakening the frame.
Laser Measuring Systems – Ensures the vehicle is 100% symmetrical and aligned before moving to the next repair stage.
🔹 Why It’s Important:
Even small misalignments can affect your car’s handling, tire wear, and crash safety.
A poorly repaired frame reduces resale value and overall vehicle strength.
Automed Collision ensures all frame repairs meet factory standards for safety and performance.
💡 Pro Tip: Some shops skip frame inspections if the damage isn’t obvious—this can lead to long-term safety issues. Always choose a shop that performs comprehensive frame analysis.
✅ 4. Auto Body Repair: Fixing Dents, Panels & Bumpers
Once the structure is realigned, the body panels, bumpers, and doors can be repaired or replaced.
Types of Auto Body Repairs
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) – For small dents and dings without affecting the paint.
Panel Replacement – If damage is too severe, entire panels are replaced with OEM parts.
Plastic Bumper Repair – Cracked bumpers are either repaired or replaced based on damage severity.
Aluminum Body Repair – Newer cars (like Tesla, Audi, and Ford F-Series) use aluminum parts, which require specialized repair techniques.
💡 Pro Tip: Automed Collision’s certified technicians use industry-best tools and techniques to ensure flawless repairs that blend seamlessly with the rest of your car.
✅ 5. Precision Auto Painting & Refinishing
After body repairs are complete, the next step is painting and refinishing, which restores your car’s original factory color.
The Auto Painting Process:
Surface Preparation – Sanding, priming, and ensuring the panel is free from contaminants.
Color Matching – Using computerized paint-matching technology to ensure a 100% exact color match.
Professional Spray Booth Painting – Ensuring even, factory-quality application with multiple coats of paint and clear coat.
Buffing & Polishing – Creating a flawless, showroom-quality shine.
🔹 Why This Step Matters:
A poorly matched paint job makes the repair obvious and lowers resale value.
Factory-quality paint application prevents premature fading or peeling.
Using a certified body shop like Automed Collision ensures the paint blends seamlessly.
💡 Pro Tip: High-quality ceramic coatings or PPF (paint protection film) can extend the life of your new paint job and protect it from rock chips and sun damage.
✅ 6. Reassembly, Final Inspection & Quality Control
Once all repairs and painting are complete, the vehicle is reassembled and goes through a rigorous quality control process.
Reinstallation of repaired or new parts (bumpers, lights, mirrors, trim).
Safety system recalibration (airbags, sensors, cameras).
Alignment & road testing to ensure proper handling.
Final inspection for panel gaps, paint quality & repair accuracy.
💡 Pro Tip: Always inspect your car before leaving the shop—look at paint consistency, alignment, and panel fitment to ensure everything is done properly.
✅ 7. Post-Repair Care & Protecting Your New Paint Job
After your car is repaired, follow these best practices to maintain the quality of the repair work:
Avoid automatic car washes for at least 30 days.
Hand wash with pH-balanced car soap.
Apply wax or ceramic coating after 60-90 days for long-term protection.
Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF) to prevent future scratches and rock chips.
📞 Want to protect your new paint job? Ask about our professional detailing, ceramic coatings, and PPF services at Automed Collision!
💰 Step 4: Understanding Collision Repair Costs & How to Save Money
After an accident, one of the biggest concerns for drivers is how much the repairs will cost. Whether you’re going through insurance or paying out of pocket, it’s important to understand what affects the cost of repairs, how to avoid hidden fees, and what options are available to save money while ensuring high-quality repairs.
At Automed Collision in Los Angeles, we believe in transparency and fair pricing while delivering factory-quality repairs. In this section, we’ll break down everything you need to know about repair costs, including how to reduce expenses without compromising on quality.
✅ 1. What Affects the Cost of Collision Repairs?
The cost of repairing your car depends on several factors, from the severity of damage to the type of parts used. Here’s a breakdown of what influences repair costs:
📌 The Main Factors That Determine Collision Repair Costs
Extent of Damage – Minor dents vs. extensive frame damage.
Type of Vehicle – Luxury cars, sports cars, and electric vehicles (EVs) often have higher repair costs.
Parts Used – OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) vs. aftermarket vs. used parts.
Labor Costs – Rates vary depending on location, certifications, and shop quality.
Paint Matching & Refinishing – Custom paints and metallic finishes increase costs.
Insurance Deductibles – If you go through insurance, you’ll have to pay your deductible before coverage kicks in.
Hidden Damage – Some repairs (like frame damage) are not visible until disassembly begins.
💡 Pro Tip: Always request a detailed, itemized estimate before approving repairs—Automed Collision provides free, transparent estimates so you know exactly what to expect.
✅ 2. How Much Do Common Collision Repairs Cost?
Every repair job is different, but here are some general price ranges for common collision repairs:
📌 Estimated Costs for Collision Repairs in Los Angeles
🚨 Warning: Some repair shops advertise low prices but use inferior parts or shortcuts—this can cause problems later, lowering your car’s resale value and safety.
At Automed Collision, we use OEM parts, factory-approved techniques, and provide a warranty on all repairs for your peace of mind.
✅ 3. Should You Go Through Insurance or Pay Out of Pocket?
Depending on the damage and your coverage, you may choose to file an insurance claim or pay out of pocket. Here’s how to decide:
📌 When to Use Insurance:
Damage is severe or costly (over $1,500+).
Repairs are covered under your policy (collision or comprehensive).
Another driver is at fault, and their insurance is covering the damage.
📌 When to Pay Out of Pocket:
Damage is minor (small dents, scratches).
You have a high deductible (e.g., $1,000+), and repairs cost less than the deductible.
You don’t want your insurance premium to increase.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, get a repair estimate first and compare it to your insurance deductible before deciding.
✅ 4. How to Avoid Overpaying for Collision Repairs
Collision repair costs can add up quickly, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Here’s how:
💡 5 Smart Ways to Reduce Collision Repair Costs
Compare Estimates – Always get at least two estimates to ensure fair pricing.
Use Your Right to Choose a Repair Shop – Don’t let your insurance force you into using their “preferred” shop.
Ask About Used or Reconditioned Parts – In some cases, these can save you money without sacrificing safety.
Consider Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) – For minor dents, PDR is cheaper and faster than traditional bodywork.
Negotiate Your Insurance Claim – If the insurance payout is too low, ask your repair shop to advocate for you (Automed Collision does this for our customers).
✅ 5. Financing Options for Major Repairs
If repair costs are high, many trusted repair shops offer financing to help break payments into affordable monthly installments.
At Automed Collision, we offer flexible payment plans and work with various financing partners to help you get your car repaired now and pay later.
📞 Call 323-735-9368 or visit Automed Collision to learn more about financing options!
🔍 Step 5: How to Choose the Right Collision Repair Shop
Now that you understand the insurance process, repair costs, and ways to save money, the final step is choosing the best collision repair shop to restore your car to pre-accident condition.
🚨 Not all body shops are the same—some cut corners, use cheap aftermarket parts, or rush jobs to maximize profits. Choosing the wrong shop can lead to poor-quality repairs, mismatched paint, or even safety hazards.
At Automed Collision in Los Angeles, we prioritize quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, ensuring every vehicle is repaired to factory specifications.
This guide will help you identify the best collision repair shop, avoid common mistakes, and ensure you receive top-tier service.
✅ 1. What to Look for in a High-Quality Auto Body Repair Shop
When searching for a trusted repair shop, make sure they meet the following key criteria:
📌 7 Signs of a High-Quality Collision Repair Shop
Certified Technicians – Look for ASE or I-CAR certifications, which indicate professional training.
OEM Parts & Factory-Approved Repairs – The best shops only use original parts, not aftermarket or salvage parts.
Insurance-Friendly but Customer-Focused – A good shop will work with insurance but prioritizes YOU, not the insurer.
Advanced Equipment & Tools – Modern cars require computerized diagnostics, frame straightening, and paint-matching technology.
Written Warranty on Repairs – A reputable shop provides a lifetime warranty on workmanship and parts.
Customer Reviews & Testimonials – Check Google, Yelp, and BBB ratings to see real customer experiences.
Transparency & Honest Estimates – Avoid shops that refuse to give a detailed, written estimate.
💡 Pro Tip: Automed Collision meets all these standards and offers free estimates, OEM-certified repairs, and a lifetime warranty on repairs.
✅ 2. Why OEM Parts Matter in Collision Repairs
🚗 When it comes to auto body repair, you typically have three types of parts to choose from:
🚨 Why You Should Always Choose OEM Parts:
✅ Perfect Fit & Compatibility – Designed specifically for your vehicle.
✅ Meets Safety Standards – Crash-tested for durability and protection.
✅ Preserves Vehicle Value – Using OEM parts maintains your car’s resale value.
✅ Longer-Lasting Repairs – Aftermarket parts may not last as long or fit properly.
At Automed Collision, we always recommend OEM parts for collision repairs and will work with your insurance company to ensure you get the best parts possible.
💡 Pro Tip: Some insurance companies try to push aftermarket parts to save money—you have the right to request OEM parts instead!
✅ 3. What Happens If a Repair Shop Uses Cheap Parts?
Unfortunately, some body shops prioritize profits over quality and use low-cost aftermarket or salvage parts. This can lead to:
Poor Fit & Appearance – Panels may not align properly, leaving visible gaps.
Lower Durability – Aftermarket parts often wear out faster than OEM parts.
Safety Risks – Non-OEM parts may not meet crash safety standards, putting you at risk.
Reduced Resale Value – If a Carfax report shows non-OEM parts were used, the car’s value decreases.
🚨 Warning: Some insurance-preferred shops automatically install aftermarket parts unless you specifically request OEM parts.
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask for a detailed estimate listing the parts used. Automed Collision provides full transparency and uses only OEM or high-quality parts unless the customer prefers otherwise.
✅ 4. Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Body Shop
🚗 Not all collision repair shops are trustworthy. Watch out for these warning signs:
They Offer Suspiciously Low Prices – Shops that offer "too-good-to-be-true" prices may be using low-quality parts or skipping important repairs.
They Avoid Giving a Written Estimate – A reputable shop will provide a detailed, itemized quote upfront.
They Pressure You to Use Their Insurance Network – You have the legal right to choose your own shop, regardless of what insurance suggests.
They Don’t Offer a Warranty – A reliable shop stands by its work with a lifetime guarantee.
They Have a History of Bad Reviews – Always check Google, Yelp, and BBB ratings before choosing a shop.
💡 Pro Tip: At Automed Collision, we provide written estimates, transparent pricing, and a lifetime repair warranty.
✅ 5. Why Automed Collision Is the #1 Auto Body Repair Shop in Los Angeles
At Automed Collision, we take pride in offering Los Angeles drivers the best in collision repair services.
🚗 Why Customers Trust Automed Collision:
Certified Technicians – Trained in OEM factory standards.
Insurance Assistance – We work directly with insurance to handle your claim.
OEM-Grade Repairs – We use original parts whenever possible.
State-of-the-Art Facility – Equipped with modern technology and advanced repair equipment.
Lifetime Warranty – We back our repairs with a written guarantee.
Five-Star Reputation – Hundreds of satisfied customers across Los Angeles.
📞 Need collision repair in Los Angeles? Call 323-735-9368 or visit Automed Collision for a free estimate today!
🚗 Final Thoughts: Get Your Car Fixed Right the First Time
Choosing the right collision repair shop makes a huge difference in the quality, safety, and value of your vehicle. By following this guide, you can avoid low-quality repairs, ensure your car is restored properly, and protect your investment.
🚀 By working with Automed Collision, you can expect:
Top-quality OEM repairs using factory-approved methods.
Expert technicians who ensure your car is 100% road-safe.
A stress-free experience with full insurance claim assistance.
A lifetime warranty so you can drive with confidence.
📞 Need a free collision repair estimate? Call 323-735-9368 or visit Automed Collision today!
🎯 Key Takeaways from This Guide
✅ Step 1: Immediate Actions After an Accident – Ensure safety, document damage, and report the accident.
✅ Step 2: Insurance Claim Process – Know your rights and avoid lowball settlements.
✅ Step 3: Auto Body Repair Process – Understand how your car is restored.
✅ Step 4: Collision Repair Costs & Savings – Know what affects pricing and how to save.
✅ Step 5: Choosing the Best Repair Shop – Why OEM parts and warranties matter.
🚗 Now you're fully equipped to handle any collision situation with confidence!
