According to the CDC, drivers between 16 and 19 are more likely than any other age group to be involved in a car accident. If your car has been damaged in a collision, you likely need collision repairs. Whether you just need a few minor dents removed or you need extensive repairs before your car is safe to drive, a local collision repair shop should offer the services you need. Before you get started, here are answers to six of the questions you likely have about the collision repair process.

1. How Do I Choose a Collision Repair Shop?

Depending on where you live, you likely have quite a few local options for collision repair shops. Before you begin seriously considering any particular shop, make sure to narrow down your options to those that work with your car insurance company. If your car is still under warranty, make sure to find a shop that will honor that warranty. Once you've found a small selection of shops to choose from, consider asking people you trust for recommendations or calling around for the best deal.

2. What Do Written Collision Repair Estimates Include?

Before any collision repair technician begins work on your vehicle, you should be given a detailed written estimate for the project. While collision repair estimates from different shops may have formatting differences, they should all contain the same essential information. Look for information about the condition of your vehicle, the parts needed for the repairs, and the general repair process. You should also be able to find clear pricing based on the cost of the parts and labor needed to fully repair your car.

3. Will My Vehicle Be the Same After Collision Repairs?

Generally, your car should function the same as it always has, even after extensive collision repairs. This is especially true if you choose a reputable collision repair shop that uses parts from the original equipment manufacturer and works to your vehicle manufacturer's specifications. You may notice small changes to the way your car drives, but as long as you don't hear unfamiliar noises or feel your car pulling to one side or the other, it should be as good as new. If you do have any concerns about the way your car handles after repairs, reach out to your collision repair shop for additional support. Depending on their service warranty, they may cover anything that could have gone wrong during the repair process.

4. Can I Get Collision Repairs for a Totaled Vehicle?

When an insurance company claims a vehicle is totaled, it means that the expected cost of repairs is higher than the cost of replacing the vehicle. At that point, you may only be able to repair your vehicle if you accept a salvage title. In the future, it may be more difficult to sell your car and you may have higher insurance premiums. Still, the choice to repair or replace your car is in your hands. Try reaching out to collision repair technicians and your insurance agent to get support with making this decision.

5. Will the Repairs Be Fully Covered by My Insurance Company?

The answer to this question depends entirely upon your insurance plan and the details of your collision. Luckily, you should get a clear answer either from your insurance company after the accident or from the written estimate provided by your collision repair shop. Either way, you should have a clear answer before getting your car repaired.

6. Can I Get Other Auto Body Services During Collision Repairs?

If you have extra funds and want to upgrade your vehicle, your collision repair shop can assist you if they offer the services you're looking for. For example, body shops offer paint services that allow them to perfectly match your car's existing paint color when replacing body panels. Instead of having them match your current paint, you can ask them to repaint your whole car with a custom color. Be sure to talk with your collision repair professional to learn more about the services they can provide.

Now that you know more about the automotive collision repair process, you can reach out to local body shops with confidence. If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident, reach out to our team at City Side Auto Body. We're a certified I-Car shop, so we'll do the job right. Call today to get a free estimate on our collision repair services!