A Complete Breakdown to Help You Navigate the Post-Crash Repair Process With Confidence

First Things First: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe and Report the Accident

The moments after a motor vehicle accident (MVA) can be disorienting, but your very first priority should always be safety. Once you’ve ensured everyone involved is physically okay and moved out of harm’s way if possible, call 911. Even if the damage appears minor, having law enforcement at the scene to document the incident can be critical later for insurance purposes and liability disputes.
A police report creates an official account of what happened—who was involved, what kind of vehicles were damaged, and whether there were any injuries. Without this report, the claim process can get messy, especially if there’s any disagreement about fault or repair coverage. It also helps establish a timeline and accountability, which can be crucial for your insurer and even in court if needed.
After ensuring safety and contacting the authorities, you’ll want to gather evidence. Take detailed photos of your car, the other vehicle(s), the road conditions, and any visible damage or injuries. This step may seem tedious, but visual proof can protect you down the line if there’s a dispute over damage or responsibility. Also, exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved—but avoid discussing who was at fault right there at the scene. Leave that determination to the police and your insurance company.

Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately

As soon as the scene is cleared and everyone is safe, your next call should be to your insurance provider. Time matters here. Most policies have terms that require you to report accidents promptly to be eligible for coverage. Delaying this step—even by a few days—can slow down your claim or risk it being denied altogether.
When you speak to your insurer, be as detailed and honest as possible. Describe what happened, where it happened, and who was involved. Be clear about whether your vehicle is drivable or not. If you have already obtained a police report or case number, provide that as well—it will help expedite the process.
At this point, your insurance rep will open a claim and assign an adjuster to your case. This person will become your primary point of contact for everything related to your vehicle repair. They’ll likely ask you to submit your photos, any witness statements you’ve collected, and further documentation.
Don’t forget to ask them about what’s covered, including rental car reimbursement, towing, and the use of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts in your repairs. This sets expectations early so there are no surprises later in the process.

Vehicle Inspection and Damage Assessment

Once your claim is filed, the next step is damage assessment—a crucial part of the repair process that determines not just what needs fixing but also whether your car will be repaired or declared a total loss. This usually involves a claims adjuster inspecting your vehicle or directing you to a certified appraisal center.
Some insurers use virtual assessments through apps, where you submit photos and videos of the damage. Others will send someone to inspect the car in person or ask you to drive to a partner shop for evaluation. If the vehicle isn’t drivable, they may tow it to an inspection site or to a body shop directly.
The adjuster will document all visible damage, estimate repair costs, and compare that amount to the actual cash value (ACV) of your car before the accident. If the estimated repairs cost more than what the vehicle is worth, your car may be considered totaled, and you’ll be offered a payout instead of repairs.
If your vehicle is repairable, you’ll receive a detailed repair estimate, outlining the parts that need replacement, the labor involved, and the cost breakdown. Review this document closely. If anything seems off or incomplete, don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification. You have the right to know exactly what’s being done to your vehicle and why.

Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop

After the inspection, your insurer may provide you with a list of preferred repair shops—also known as Direct Repair Programs (DRPs). These are body shops that have a relationship with your insurance company and agree to follow set procedures, pricing, and timelines. Choosing one of these can speed up repairs and reduce paperwork since the shop and insurer are already aligned.
However, you are not required to use a DRP shop. You have the legal right to take your vehicle to any licensed repair shop you prefer. This could be your trusted local mechanic or dealership’s service department. Just note that going outside the network might lead to slower approval times or require more back-and-forth with your insurer.
When selecting a shop, consider the following:

• Do they use OEM or aftermarket parts?
• Do they guarantee their work?
• Are their technicians I-CAR or ASE certified?
• Do they have experience with your specific make and model?

Also ask for a written timeline for the repairs. A good shop will be transparent about how long it will take to get parts and complete the work. Remember, quality repairs matter more than speed—cutting corners to save a few days could cost you in the long run with safety and resale value.

Understanding the Parts: OEM vs. Aftermarket

During the repair process, one of the most important (and overlooked) discussions is about the types of parts that will be used to fix your vehicle. This decision directly impacts the quality of the repair, the value of your vehicle, and even future safety performance.
Here’s the breakdown:
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts are made by the same company that built your car. These parts are identical to what was originally installed and are often the best fit in terms of quality and compatibility.
Aftermarket Parts are produced by third-party manufacturers. They can be cheaper but may not fit as perfectly or offer the same performance. That said, some aftermarket parts are of excellent quality and come with strong warranties.
Used/Recycled Parts come from other vehicles, usually from salvage yards. These can be more affordable but should only be used for certain non-critical components.
Insurers often push for aftermarket parts because they save money. If your policy doesn’t specifically include OEM parts, you may need to pay the difference out of pocket. Always check your policy and discuss options with the shop and your adjuster. If you’re driving a newer car or a leased vehicle, OEM parts might be the smarter choice to maintain warranty standards and resale value.

Getting the Repairs Done

Once everything is approved, the shop begins the repair process. Depending on the damage, this could involve bodywork, frame straightening, mechanical fixes, new paint, and replacing damaged parts. Throughout the process, a good shop will keep you updated on the progress and inform you if any new issues are discovered once the teardown begins.
Sometimes hidden damage is found that wasn’t visible during the initial inspection. When this happens, the shop will submit a supplemental claim to your insurer for approval before continuing the repairs. This is common and shouldn’t worry you—it’s just part of ensuring your vehicle is restored properly.
Make sure the shop also realigns sensors and safety systems if they’ve been affected. Modern cars rely on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a proper calibration post-repair is essential for the safety of you and your passengers.
When repairs are complete, you’ll be asked to inspect the work. Take your time. Look over the finish, ask questions, and make sure everything operates correctly. Many shops offer a warranty on repairs, but any issues should be addressed before you drive away.

Managing Out-of-Pocket Costs

Even if your insurance covers most of the repair bill, you may still have out-of-pocket expenses. The most common is your deductible, which is the amount you agreed to pay toward a covered claim when you bought your policy. If you have a $500 deductible and the repair costs $4,000, you’ll pay $500 and the insurer pays $3,500.
You might also face additional costs if:

• You opt for OEM parts not fully covered by your policy
• You choose a rental car above your daily coverage limit
• You need expedited service or upgrades not covered by the policy
• Repairs exceed your policy limits

Always clarify these costs with your insurance adjuster before authorizing the repair. That way, you’re not blindsided by unexpected charges when picking up your vehicle.

Rental Cars and Transportation While You Wait

If your vehicle is in the shop for several days or weeks, you’ll likely need a rental car. Many auto insurance policies include rental reimbursement coverage, but it often comes with daily limits—such as $30 per day for up to 30 days. Check your policy for the details.
If you don’t have rental coverage, ask the repair shop if they partner with rental agencies for discounted rates. Some DRP repair shops even offer loaner cars as a courtesy while your car is being fixed.
Make sure the rental car you receive is appropriate for your lifestyle. If you regularly drive a minivan for your family, a compact sedan might not be enough. You may need to cover the difference if you upgrade, but it’s worth it for comfort and convenience.

Final Inspection and Getting Back on the Road

Once repairs are completed and your bill is settled, it’s time to inspect your vehicle and take it home. Don’t rush this final step. Inspect the paint match, the alignment of body panels, and make sure all systems—like brakes, lights, cameras, and sensors—are functioning properly.
Ask the repair shop for a detailed invoice that includes:

• A breakdown of all parts and labor
• Warranty terms for the work done
• Information on any parts that were replaced or upgraded

Drive the car for a few miles and pay attention to any unusual noises, alignment issues, or dashboard warnings. If anything feels off, contact the shop immediately. Most reputable repair facilities stand by their work and will make adjustments or corrections as needed.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay in Control

Dealing with the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident is never easy—but knowing what to expect can turn a stressful experience into a manageable process. From the moment you file a claim to the day you pick up your repaired vehicle, you are in control when you ask the right questions, understand your rights, and partner with the right professionals.
Insurance companies and body shops may try to steer the process their way, but remember: it’s your vehicle, your coverage, and your safety at stake. Don’t settle for less than quality repairs and clear communication. Being proactive will help you get your car back in top condition and your life back on track—one well-informed step at a time.