After your car has been damaged in an auto accident, get an inspection from an auto body shop. A mechanic will draft a collision repair report that you can take to your insurance company. If you’re unfamiliar with this process, the information below explains what these estimates are and why they are necessary. 

Do I Need a Collision Repair Estimate Post-Accident? 

Insurance Companies

There are two documents an insurance company requires before they will pay to have your car fixed: a police report and an estimate of the damages. Have your vehicle looked at by a professional to determine what collision repair is needed. Estimators will identify not only the surface damage, but possible hidden problems as well.

Online Estimator Tools

Avoid wasting time with online collision repair tools available on the Internet. Insurance companies will not accept them, and mechanics cannot perform repairs based on them either. For minor repairs, these online tools may be able to give you a ballpark estimate, but differences can occur depending on your car type, location, and the cost of manufacturer parts. 

Pricing Variations

Collision centers in the same geographical region tend to offer similar pricing, so cost differences don’t come down to choosing one company versus another. The true explanation is that collision repair estimates require a keen eye for detail. For example, a bumper replacement may seem like a simple fix; however, if it needs new paint, is considered collapsible, or is attached to a shock absorption sensor, the repair can quickly become more complex. For these estimates, mechanics have to determine the amount of damage based on a visual inspection alone. In essence, different mechanics notice different details, which can result in variations in their final reports. 

The right professional mechanic can get your insurance claim handled quickly and your car back on the road. Kemp Bros Body Shop in Texarkana, TX, has repaired cars and written collision repair estimates for over 45 years. Because of their strict standards, efficiency, and ethics, this family-owned business has been approved by insurance providers as a direct repair facility. For more information on their services, go to their website, or give them a call at (903) 794-9776.