Getting into a car crash is incredibly stressful, even if it’s the smallest fender bender. Once the shock wears off, your mind is racing, and you just want to get your car fixed and back on the road. One of the biggest questions people have is who to call after an accident. Most of us automatically reach for the phone to call our insurance company. After all, that is what we pay them for, right?
In most cases, that is the right move. Looping in your insurance company first helps the claim process go smoothly and ensures any repairs your shop later identifies are covered. A local auto body expert becomes your partner once the claim is open. Let’s walk through the steps you should take to help you figure out exactly who to contact first.
What Should You Do Immediately After an Accident?
Before you worry about your insurance rates or finding a collision repair shop, safety must always come first. Make sure everyone involved is okay and move out of traffic if possible. Once you’re in a safe spot, follow these basic steps:
- Call the police, if needed, to file an official report
- Take photos of the scene and all vehicle documentation
- Exchange information with the other drivers involved
Who Should You Call After an Accident: Insurance or a Collision Repair Shop?
Deciding who to call after an accident depends on how bad the crash was. Find your situation below for a breakdown of the best choice.
In an Emergency: Police/911 First
If anyone is injured or if the crash is blocking a busy intersection, call 911 immediately. Your health and safety are the top priorities, so don’t worry about vehicle repairs until the scene is secure.
If The Car Is Badly Damaged or Not Drivable
When your car cannot be safely driven, towing and collision shop involvement may need to happen quickly. Securing your vehicle in a lot will prevent further damage and costly storage fees.
If The Accident Is Minor and You Expect to File a Claim
If you know for sure that you’ll be using your coverage, insurance should be your first call. Filing the claim before any inspection or disassembly happens at the shop helps make sure your adjuster sees the damage as the shop documents it, which protects you from denied repairs down the line.
If You’re Not Sure Whether Damage Is Cosmetic or More Serious
Sometimes a dent looks like a quick fix, but it actually hides major issues. Notify your insurance first, then a collision repair shop can do a visual walk-around to help you decide whether to move forward with a full claim. The teardown work that uncovers hidden damage should happen after the adjuster has reviewed the vehicle.
How a Collision Repair Shop Helps After You File a Claim
Once your claim is open, an experienced auto body shop becomes one of your most valuable advocates. They work directly with your adjuster and give you a realistic picture of what the repair will involve. Here’s how they help:
- Hidden damage is very common after a crash, and the shop documents it for your adjuster
- They can tell if the car is actually safe to drive
- They communicate directly with your insurance to keep the claim moving
The Biggest Mistake Drivers Make After a Minor Accident
Assuming damage is minor without a repair shop call after an accident is a huge mistake. Many drivers skip a proper inspection, thinking they can just live with a small scratch or dent.
Because they skip this step, they end up not filing a claim when they actually should. Even for minor accidents, it’s worth notifying your insurance and getting a professional estimate so you have documentation if hidden issues surface later.
Why Some Damage Looks Minor But Is Not
Modern cars are designed to absorb impacts, which means the outside might look fine while the inside is wrecked. Here’s why you might miss important damages:
- Bumpers often hide expensive structural damage
- Sensors and backup cameras can easily become misaligned
- A small bump can cause frame or alignment issues
- Paint damage that looks small can quickly spread and rust
Should You Get an Inspection Before or After Filing a Claim?
For most accidents, file the claim first. Once your adjuster has reviewed the vehicle, the shop can perform a thorough inspection (including any necessary disassembly) with insurance backing. If a shop tears down your car before the adjuster sees it, those findings and repairs may be denied.
Can You Choose Your Own Collision Repair Shop?
Insurance companies often recommend their own preferred network of mechanics, but you’re never obligated to use them. You have the legal right to decide who to call after an accident and take your vehicle to any certified technician you trust. If you want to learn more, read our full guide to understand if you can choose your own collision repair shop with insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use the repair shop my insurance recommends?
No, your insurance company cannot legally force you to use a specific auto body shop.
How soon do I need to report an accident to my insurance company?
Most policies require you to report an accident within a few days. Check your specific policy for details.
Will calling a body shop before insurance affect my claim?
A quick visual estimate is generally fine, but you should avoid any inspection that involves disassembly until your insurance has reviewed the vehicle. Repairs identified after teardown without adjuster approval are frequently denied.
What if the insurance estimate doesn’t cover the full repair?
Initial insurance estimates are often lower than the final repair bill because they don’t account for hidden damage. A good repair shop will work directly with your insurer to get the extra costs covered.
Let Valley Collision Handle Your Auto Body Repairs
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident is frustrating, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Valley Collision, our friendly technicians are here to help you navigate the repair process from start to finish. We offer accurate estimates, work closely with your insurance, and back our work with a lifetime warranty. Give us a call today to get started!
