What Accident Victims Should Know About Auto Body Repairs

Nothing can explain the frustration of driving down the road and following all of the rules, and then a negligent driver collides with your vehicle. In the blink of an eye, an accident can end up injured with a damaged vehicle that is too unappealing to drive. Your vehicle has the possibility of being less damaged than the appearance of the body makes it seem, but it is always wise to have a full inspection performed. You want to make sure the fullest extent of damage that was caused by the other driver is paid for by the insurance company. The right repair shop to take your vehicle to is one that works on vehicles that have been involved in collisions.

What Is a Direct Repair Program?

Many collision repair shops have agreements with insurance companies under a Direct Repair Program (DRP). Basically, such an agreement is made in which an auto body repair shop agrees to perform certain services with the guarantee of prompt payment. The money that is paid by the insurance company is usually an amount of money that has been predetermined as per the agreement. For example, it is common for bumpers to get damaged or fall off in a collision, so there might be a predetermined price that is set for replacing a damaged bumper. Keep in mind that not all auto body repair shops are in such agreements, but any professional shop will take good care of your vehicle.

How Long Does a Collision Repair Take?

Repairing the body of a vehicle after a vehicle varies, especially if there is deeper damage than just the body. Upon your vehicle arriving at a shop, it will undergo an inspection to determine the extent of damage that was done. The repair time will depend on the extent of the damage, as well as whether further damage is found upon disassembling the body. For example, after disassembling the body, the mechanics might notice that the internal parts are damaged. If you need a temporary vehicle to drive during the repair process, the repair shop may be able to set something up for you.

Will a New Paint Job Be Necessary?

It is usually necessary for a vehicle to be painted after being involved in a collision. Minor body damage might only require a small area of your vehicle to be painted. However, extensive body damage will likely need a full paint job. It is up to you as to which color your vehicle is painted if a full paint job is needed.

For more information, contact an auto body repair service near you.


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