I got into an accident. What do I do now?
There are many ways to avoid a car accident, but once it happens, it’s important that you take the right steps. We understand that it is hard to think clearly after an accident, so it’s important to be guided in the right direction.
If you’re planning on going through your insurance company, make sure you provide your local agent or provider with the proper information about the repair needed. Once you have a claim number, you can call any of our locations for an appointment.
All repairs begin with an estimate. An estimate is a basic set of instructions to outline the repairs to your vehicle, including parts, labor, time, and overall cost. Every estimate is different, and depends on your insurance provider and payment method. You can call any of our locations in order to receive assistance with your estimate.
Once we receive an estimate, we can start repairing your vehicle and get it back to you as quickly as possible.
Since we operate our own tow fleet, we can pick your vehicle up just about anywhere–at no cost to you!
In the event of an accident:
1: Stop at the scene of the accident and determine if anyone was injured and asses damage.
2: Contact medical services if anyone is injured and requests or requires assistance.
3: Report accident to appropriate law enforcement agency.
4: Exchange name, address and vehicle registration number with all party’s involved. Also obtain name, address and phone info for any witnesses.
5: Call your insurance carrier to report claim and information.
6: Contact Check Collision for assistance with vehicle repair, towing, rentals or anything collision-related.
Do I need an estimate?
Yes. If you’re planning on going through insurance, an appointed appraiser from your insurance company will come to your home or work. If vehicle is stored at Check Collision, they will come to us. If you’re planning on paying for the repair yourself, Check Collision can provide a free estimate for repair at any of our locations.
Why is there a difference in price between you and my insurance company’s estimate?
To ensure a proper repair Check Collision will work with your insurance company to ensure the safety and integrity of your vehicle, however, many factors can go into why there are differences. Each insurance company has different types of repair plans and different labor hours. Depending on year and mileage on vehicle can determine whether OEM (original factory parts) or aftermarket parts are used.
What makes and models do you work on?
Check Collision will work on just about any make, model or year vehicle. Our technicians have years of experience specializing in everyday vehicles, fleet vehicles, large service trucks and ambulances.
How can I get a rental?
Once you have opened a claim with your insurance company, we will help arrange for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired here at Check Collision.
How can I get my vehicle towed?
Check Collision has its own fleet of tow trucks. If your vehicle needs to be towed from a lot, give any one of our offices a call and we will bring the vehicle to our repair facility at no charge to you. Your insurance company will cover any storage and towing fees associated with your claim.
When will my vehicle be finished?
We understand that it is an inconvenience to be without your vehicle. However, due to the nature of collision repair, we are unable to provide you with a realistic completion date until we have had an opportunity to completely and systematically dismantle the damaged area. Carefully inspect every part for damage . Have your insurance company view the damage and approve our repair plan. We will provide a convenience phone call to you within 24 hours of the vehicle going through the first stage to let you know a better idea on the time we will have your vehicle ready.
How do I get a claim number?
Call your insurance provider directly. Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident to them. Just jot it down and bring it with you when you come in to make an appointment.
Can I get extra work done on my vehicle?
Absolutely. Check Collision offers a wide variety of extra services at competitive prices. Just ask your customer service rep when you drop off your vehicle of any extra work you would like performed.
How much is this going to cost me?
Generally, our customers are responsible for paying only their insurance deductible, plus any “betterment” or “depreciation” costs, as assessed by your insurance company.
What hours can I bring in my vehicle?
We are open from 8:00AM to 5:00PM EST from Monday – Friday and 8:00AM to 2:00PM EST on Saturdays. We always recommend that you call ahead to minimize the wait time.
Do I need to take my personal belongings out?
Yes. Please remove all of your belongings or anything that you might need ahead of time. Our technicians will need to access all areas of your vehicle as it gets disassembled, repaired, painted and reassembled.
Do I get a warranty?
All of our work (paint, parts and materials) is guaranteed for as long as you own your vehicle. When you pick up your repaired vehicle, you will receive an itemized list of each repair completed. We store all of the information in a file as well as in the computer, so there is no question about what was repaired.
How will I know when my car is finished?
We will contact you when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. You can also use this website to monitor the status of your repair on the main page. Feel free to call or e-mail us if you have questions or concerns.
