A car accident is stressful, even a minor one. Knowing what to do in the moments and days afterward protects your safety, your wallet and your vehicle. Here is what our team at Hudsonville Body Shop tells drivers across West Michigan.
1. Check for injuries and get to safety
First, make sure everyone is okay. If anyone is hurt, call 911. If the vehicles are drivable and it is safe, move them out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Call the police and document the scene
A police report is invaluable for your insurance claim. While you wait, take photos of the damage to all vehicles, the license plates and the road. Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance information and plate numbers with the other driver.
3. Notify your insurance company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as you can — but you do not have to accept the first repair shop they mention.
4. Choose your own repair shop
In Michigan, you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. You are not required to use the body shop your insurance company recommends. Simply tell your adjuster you are taking it to Hudsonville Body Shop and we will handle the estimate and the claim.
5. Get a free estimate
Bring your vehicle to our shop on Highland Drive or send photos through our online estimate tool. We document the damage, work with your carrier, and return your car to pre-accident condition with a lifetime-warrantied collision repair.
Been in an accident near Hudsonville, Jenison, Grandville or Grand Rapids? Call (616) 264-9238 and we will walk you through it.