Fender benders can happen in an instant. These do not care if you are on a highway or busy road; fender and time wait for none! That split second of sudden jolt, noise, or uncertainty can leave any driver flustered.
However, knowing what to do next can make all the difference. Taking the right decisions calmly yet quickly provides protection, simplifies the insurance process, and prevents minor mishaps from turning into costly repairs.
Ultimately, people make effective choices because of the expert advice they receive from the professionals at the local collision center Philadelphia.
The experiences they gain from working in the body shop, Philadelphia, PA, have given them the confidence to effortlessly identify the troubles of Philly’s streets and deterioration from the weather.
Here is a simple guide highlighting the tips suggested by accident repair Philadelphia technicians for passengers to navigate.
What To Do As a First Priority?
Below are the typical protocols that local body shops, Philadelphia, PA, and authorities advise people to follow.
Signs of Injury
In case of any injury, call emergency services without delay. Always prioritize health care over property damage. The first responders will record all injuries for their official police report.
Move to Safety
The law and local authorities recommend removing disabled vehicles from the running traffic, if possible, and turning on the hazard lights. Hence, if the car remains operable and safe, relocate it off the roadway to a secure lane or side street.
Call Law Enforcement
In case of injuries, death, or an unsafe vehicle, the police are notified. Even if the damage is minor, it is best to call in the officers on duty and file a formal report.
What Kind of Evidence to Collect in Such Cases?
Visual Documentation
Do you know that capturing pictures and short videos of important details makes a huge difference? Taking multiple pictures from different angles and distances is always useful.
Such as:
- Don’t overlook the complete vehicle damage shots.
- It’s best to take visible snippets of the location of the accident.
- The best would be capturing street signs, tire marks, and traffic signals.
- If there are other vehicles involved, capture them with license plates.
Obtain Information
Another important step is gathering information about the driver and witnesses. It can include their name, contact number, addresses, license and plate number, etc.
The local collision center Philadelphia also suggests collecting complete insurance details. Furthermore, note down the vehicle’s make, model, and year, as well as proof of registration.
Documenting All the Key Details
Noting everything about the scene of the accident, date, time, road, and weather conditions. It may sound over the top, but a brief description of what happened is crucial.
Secure Receipts
Hold on to transaction slips for any tow, emergency post-accident purchases, or medical treatments. Such proofs come in handy during claims.
What are the Supporting Actions?
Avoid Admission to Fault
Refrain from polite statements that may be interpreted as admitting responsibility to the other driver, such as apologizing or taking the blame. According to the legal sources, even polite apologies can complicate the situation.
Hit and Run
Reach out to emergency personnel and provide any details you may have seen, like the car or plate number. Every little bit of information can be important for the police in their investigation.
Unattended Vehicle
According to the law, the responsible party must leave their name, address, and registration number in writing before proceeding to report the incident. Neglecting this step can lead to serious criminal charges.
Towing Rules
In Philadelphia, towing is strictly directed or supervised by the police. This is because private towing is not permitted at the scene of the accident. Hence, reaching out to the officer on the ground to ask about which towing company to use is the best plan of action.
Contacting Insurance
- Call the insurance provider as soon as possible
- Tell them about the accident in factual descriptions
- Ask about the eligible coverage options
- Provide them with the documentation they need, such as an estimate of the damage, a copy of the police report, and evidence of loss.
Choose a Body Shop, Philadelphia, PA
There are many options available for accident repair in Philadelphia. Visit a local collision center Philadelphia, even if you were involved in a small fender bender.
There could be hidden damage that is not visible to the naked eye. Such issues commonly occur in sensors, frames, alignment, and computer modules of modern vehicles.
Some of the qualities to look for in a body shop, Philadelphia, PA, include:
- Manufacturer-approved certifications and training
- Transparent pricing
- Alignment capabilities
- Warranties
- Local reputation
Evaluations and Second Opinions
At times, body shops will only fix the appearance rather than opt for a full repair, or will offer a cheaper estimate. In such cases, look for an accident repair Philadelphia for a second estimate that covers the diagnosis of the structural and mechanical system.
Possibility of Long-Term Damage
At times, symptoms are not noticeable until later due to adrenaline. Hence, seek immediate medical care, preferably within the next 48 to 72 hours. The medical results of personal injury thus obtained are essential evidence for claims, as the insurer asks for them.
A Long-Standing Body Shop, Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Ralph’s Automotive Services Center has been in the industry for decades, so they know what Philly drivers have to endure.
They are among the accident repair Philadelphia shops, recognized for their collision and mechanical repairs for all kinds of vehicles. For more details, visit drralphs.com.