“Honestly, this accident was the single scariest thing that has every happened to me,” Naomi said. “I was driving along, minding my own business, focused on getting to work on time, when all of a sudden this guy in a giant SUV sideswipes me on my passenger side. I wound up getting forced out of my lane and just narrowly missed being hit by a highway department vehicle. Luckily, I didn’t get seriously hurt, but my car looks terrible. What types of repair are necessary after a sideswipe accident?”
What is a sideswipe accident?
We see a lot of the results of sideswipe accidents in our collision repair center in Southeastern MA. This is because we have several very busy multi-lane roads with on ramps, exit ramps, and traffic circles. When drivers fail to navigate any of this properly, the result is often a sideswipe accident. A sideswipe occurs when the side of one vehicle comes into contact with another.
What type of damage can a sideswipe accident cause?
As you might imagine, when the sides of cars come into contact at speed, most of the damage occurs on the side of the vehicle. This includes the doors, quarter panels and fenders. Windows can be broken during a sideswipe accident. It is possible for frame damage to occur due to a sideswipe accident. Additionally, airbags may deploy in one or both vehicles.
How important is it to get the damage from a sideswipe accident repaired?
If you’re paying for accident repairs out of your own pocket, it’s a really good idea to work with a collision repair center in Southeastern MA that offers multiple levels of service. Some people won’t be happy until their car is restored to showroom condition. This means doing all kinds of work at the highest possible standard – very expensive. The most affordable option is not pretty but safely drivable. Most people opt for an in-between point, where all mechanical and major cosmetic issues are addressed.
How Auto Body Shops Can Assist with Insurance Companies
Navigating insurance claims after an accident can be overwhelming. Fortunately, auto body shops can play a crucial role in assisting with the insurance process, making it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s how:
1. Establishing Communication
Auto body shops often have established relationships with major insurance companies. This connection allows them to streamline communication, ensuring all parties are on the same page regarding repairs and costs.
2. Detailed Estimates
Professionals at auto body shops provide thorough repair estimates using advanced tools and software. These detailed assessments help insurance companies understand the scope of the work needed, preventing unnecessary delays.
3. Direct Billing
Many auto body shops offer direct billing services to insurance companies. This means you won’t have to worry about paying upfront and getting reimbursed later—reducing financial strain during the repair process.
4. Claims Management
Experienced shops assist with the paperwork involved in filing insurance claims. They ensure that all necessary documentation is accurately completed, expediting approval and avoiding rejected claims due to errors.
5. Advocacy and Negotiation
Auto body shop professionals advocate on your behalf, negotiating with insurance adjusters to agree on repair costs and methods. Their industry knowledge allows them to argue for the best parts and services to restore your vehicle efficiently.
6. Repair Expertise
Insurance companies trust auto body shops to provide expert opinions on the most effective repair techniques. This expertise ensures that the insurance adjuster’s decisions align with the best interests of vehicle safety and functionality.
7. Customer Updates
Throughout the repair and insurance process, auto body shops keep you informed. Frequent updates on repair status and insurance negotiations help ensure that you’re never left in the dark.
In conclusion, auto body shops are more than just places to fix your vehicle; they are invaluable allies in helping you navigate the often complex world of insurance claims. By ensuring efficient communication, precise documentation, and expert repairs, they can significantly reduce the stress of dealing with an accident and its aftermath.
How to Describe Sideswipe Damage When Reaching Out
If you need to contact a body shop, you’ll want to be as detailed as possible when describing what happened and where the damage is on your car. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure the repair team understands exactly what they’re working with:
- Note which side of the vehicle was hit—passenger or driver.
- Mention which areas were affected, such as front or rear doors, mirrors, fenders, or quarter panels.
- Describe the extent of the damage. Is it just scratches and paint transfer? Are there large dents, crushed panels, or parts sticking out?
- Don’t forget to include if windows or mirrors are shattered or cracked.
- If your car doors no longer open, close, or lock properly, let them know.
- Be sure to mention any warning lights on your dashboard or if any airbags went off during the incident.
- Photos are worth a thousand words. Snap a few pictures from different angles and send them along if possible.
The more detail you can provide, the faster the shop can help get your car—and your daily routine—back to normal.
What Information Will the Body Shop Need?
Before an auto body shop can get started on restoring your vehicle, they’ll need a few key details to ensure they understand your car and the repairs it might require. Having the following information handy will help everything go smoothly:
- Your Contact Information: Make sure to provide your name, phone number, and email so the shop can reach you easily regarding estimates, updates, and scheduling.
- Best Time to Get in Touch: Let them know when you’re most available—morning, mid-day, or evening—to answer questions or arrange drop-off and pick-up.
- Vehicle Details: The year, make, and model of your car, truck, van, or SUV is essential. If you’ve still got your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) handy, it’s worth jotting that down too.
- Description of the Damage: Jot down everything you’ve noticed—even if it seems small. Was the door scraped? Is there a dent in the fender or a broken window? The more details you give, the easier it is for the shop to prepare an accurate assessment.
Providing these bits of information upfront will help your repair shop hit the ground running and start the process of getting your car back to its best.
