If your car was damaged in an accident, you should have it repaired by a reputable auto body shop as soon as possible. Although the process may be slightly different depending on your insurance company, the basic guidelines can help you get the repairs covered.

Below, the collision repair team at Jerry Ernst Auto Body discusses what you should do after a car accident:

• Call Your Insurance Agent: Contact your insurance agent to file a claim once you have a copy of the police report. Regardless of whose insurance company is responsible for the repair costs, a claim is necessary to begin the repair process.
• Have Your Car Inspected: If your vehicle is still in working condition, the insurer may ask you to bring it to their inspection station so they can estimate the cost of the damage or have it inspected at an auto repair shop. If it’s not operational, an inspector will go to your vehicle’s location and come up with an estimate.
• Get Your Car to an Auto Body Shop: Bring your car to a shop or have it towed there to see if they accept the estimate. If you don’t know where to take your vehicle, many insurance companies can recommend reputable mechanics. The auto body shop may work with the insurance company on your behalf to negotiate the cost if they think the estimate is too low.
• Pay for the Repairs: After the vehicle is repaired, the insurance company either issues a check to the auto repair shop to cover the damage cost or you can pay for the repairs yourself. If you cover the costs, you will be reimbursed by the insurance company. Make sure the insurance company and the auto shop agree on the repair cost, or you may end up paying more than insurance covers.

For the best auto body shop in Cincinnati, OH, turn to the experts at Jerry Ernst Auto Body. Their collision repair team offers a full range of high-quality repair services for every type of vehicle. Give them a call at (513) 871-7200 or visit them online for more information about their automotive repair services.