Unfortunately, keying a car is a common type of vandalism. It’s upsetting to find those telltale scratches on your vehicle, but you should stay calm and act appropriately. Taking the proper steps will help you get the cost of auto painting repairs covered, and the crime addressed.

What to Do if Your Car Gets Keyed

1. Document the Damage

Immediately record the vandalism before driving your vehicle anywhere. Take photos or videos of the affected panels. Look around the immediate area where you parked the car. There may have been witnesses whose contact information you can get or surveillance cameras that caught the vandalism. Because some surveillance systems automatically override their video after a certain number of days, look for video coverage immediately.

2. File a Police Report

Call the local police non-emergency line if you’re not in immediate danger. An officer may come to you, or you might need to go to the police station to file a report. They will take down information such as statements from witnesses, the extent of the damage, and the details of the crime. If you and your insurer take the culprit to court, this report will be immensely helpful.

3. File an Insurance Claim

Contact your insurance company to file a claim. They may ask for details such as where and when the incident happened, copies of your damage documentation, and whether you know who did it. Be prepared to answer these questions honestly. Stick with the facts rather than speculating on what happened. Ask them for the next steps, such as whether they have an auto painting shop they want you to go to for your repairs.

When you’re ready to fix the damage, take your car to Schneider Auto Body in Columbia, MO. This family-owned and -operated auto painting shop will restore your vehicle to perfection with industry-leading and eco-friendly products. The finished result will look seamless and outlast the harsh elements for years. Learn about their services online and call (573) 815-0198 to request a car scratch removal estimate.