No one wants to get in an auto collision, but you should still be prepared for the possibility. Here are a few steps to take after an accident to protect you financially and on the road in the future.

What to Do After a Car Accident

1. Collect & Record Information

Right after an auto collision, call the police and exchange information with the other driver. Write down the other driver’s name, address, contact information, driver’s license ID number, license plate number, car insurance company, and insurance policy number.

Take pictures of the damage if you can. This documentation will help your case when your insurance company determines who is more at fault for the accident. 

2. Get Your Vehicle Checked 

Have your vehicle checked for problems soon after an accident to ensure it’s safe to drive. Accidents can damage your car in a myriad of hidden ways.

For example, coolant or brake fluid reservoirs might have sprung leaks under the hood. The impact may have thrown the wheels out of alignment, misaligned the steering column, or bent or broken the suspension.

3. Repair the Body & Repaint Your Vehicle

Repairing the body and repainting your vehicle after an accident is crucial not just for aesthetics but also prolonging its life span. Breaks, cracks, scratches, or dents in the body can expose your car’s moving parts to dust, dirt, and weather factors. Any points of damaged paint are also more vulnerable to rust, which can spread and weaken the car body.

If you’ve been involved in an auto collision, visit the experts at C & H Body & Fender in Honolulu, HI. For over 30 years, they’ve provided a wide array of services, from auto dent repair to repainting. Give them a call at (808) 841-3618 to make an appointment, or visit them online for more information on their services.