Discovering your car has been keyed while parked in a driveway or commercial lot can be a frustrating, emotional experience. Though you should take the vehicle to an auto body repair specialist as soon as possible, there are also steps to follow first before removing any trace of the vandalism. Doing so could save you money on fixes and increase the likelihood of catching the culprit. Below is a guide to what you should do if this issue ever arises. 

What to Do if Someone Keys Your Car

1 File a Police Report

Car vandalism is a prosecutable offense, so file a police report. If your vehicle was targeted for a specific reason, this step is invaluable in building a case against the culprit. Further, if there’s been a rash of similar incidents in the area, the details of your situation will help bring the perpetrator to justice. The report is also necessary when filing a claim with your insurance lender to cover the cost of repairing the damage. If the person is caught, they could be held financially responsible for fixing your car.

2 Contact the Auto Insurance Company

After calling the cops, contact your insurance company. To prevent against fraudulent claims, the adjuster will need information regarding the event. Apart from the police report, they will ask to see the damage. Write down the date and time of the incident, where you were parked when the crime took place, and any other pertinent details. The insurance company will also explain the terms of your policy, including the deductibles, extent of auto body repair coverage, and whether you are eligible for a rental vehicle while the car is being serviced.

3 Take the Car to an Auto Body Shop

After you know the terms of vandalism coverage and whether your claim has been accepted, reach out to an auto body repair specialist for help. Ask for a written estimate which includes material and labor costs, as well as an outline of any necessary fixes to restore the vehicle to its former condition. Knowing the expense upfront helps budget for out-of-pocket fees, as well as compensation amounts to pursue when filing a claim. 

If your car has been keyed, the auto body repair specialists at Collision Masters in Fairbanks, AK, will provide sandblasting, painting, and additional detail work to remove imperfections and make the finish look brand new. Call (907) 451-8456 today to speak with a representative and request an estimate. You can also visit the paint and body shop online to fill out a service quote form.