Car body work : Everything you need to know

Stew Broward

Head of PR (Enzo Collision)

August 31, 2023

Did you figure in a fender-bender? Or did someone key your car? How about a parking snag? All these will require car body work to fix the damage and restore your vehicle’s appearance.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of body work cars need, the processes involved, how much it costs, and more. Read on to get a sneak peek of what our auto body technicians do to your car when you bring it to our shop:

What is body work on cars?

Auto body work refers to all repairs, customizations, and touch-ups done on the exterior of your car. It involves all the work on the frame of your vehicle, whether it’s for aesthetic or repair purposes. This includes your car bumpers, body panels, doors, fenders, and so on.

Although car body work focuses on the outside look of your car, it’s also a matter of safety. By repairing the body of your car, it will be ready to endure harsh outdoor elements.

Aside from that, body work also ensures that your car’s frame is in good shape for driving. Otherwise, your vehicle will have poor handling, uneven tire wear, and repetitive damage.

Professional vs. DIY Car Body Work

When dealing with car body damage, there are two options for you: seek professional help or take the DIY route. Both work, but not with the same results.

Always remember that a damaged car body can be expensive to fix. If you tried a DIY solution without much experience, you may end up making the situation worse, thus more expensive repairs.

Nevertheless, we recognize the fact that many car owners have excellent DIY skills. Many successfully managed to patch up a scratch, ding, or pop a small dent.

So if you’re unsure which way to go, the following points may help you decide:

Pros and cons of professional car body work

Pros

Access to experts. With professional car body work, you’ll have licensed and certified technicians working on your vehicle. They have the knowledge to deal with extensive damage using specialized tools and techniques.

Efficiency. Professional auto body technicians know exactly what techniques, equipment, and car body work tools to use for your vehicle. Thanks to their experience, they can repair your car faster than your DIY efforts.

Warranty and guarantee. The best thing about going for professional repairs if you’ll enjoy a guarantee on the repairs done. This is added peace of mind, especially if you paid for expensive repairs.

Insurance claims assistance. Many car body work shops like Enzo Collision offers complete insurance handling for eligible claims. This way, you can submit and get your claims approved as fast as possible.

Cons:

Cost. One downside of professional service is the car body work cost. You’ll have to factor in labor costs, parts, and other things that will add up to your final bill.

Availability. Most of the time, body work shops will ask you to book an appointment before getting repairs. This means you may have to wait for your car to get repaired, especially if you prefer a shop with a large clientele.

Pros and cons of DIY car body work:

Pros:

Cost-effective. The biggest benefit of DIY repairs is you can save a lot of money upfront. You just have to invest in an affordable car body work kit and you can start your own repair efforts.

Learning experience. DIY body work repairs are also a great chance to learn new skills for your car’s upkeep.

Flexibility. Since you’re working on your own, you have full control over the timeline of how fast the repairs will be done. You can also do the repairs in your free time.

Cons:

Limited expertise. If you haven’t done car body work repairs before, you’re risking making the damage worse. Also, it would be impossible for you to perform complex repairs that need heavy equipment that you can only find in auto body shops.

Quality of work. With DIY work, the quality of the repairs is as good as your skills. So if you’re not much of a handyman, you’ll likely get a subpar result. Worse, you’ll end up bringing your car to an auto shop just the same.

Potentially costly outcomes. If your DIY work didn’t pan out, you’ll end up paying more for repairs since the damage got worse. So if you’re not confident with your repair skills, we highly suggest that you contact a professional instead.

Common Types of Car Body Damage

You may require body work for a car for various reasons. Here are some of the most common culprits behind this damage:

Scratches. This is the most common car body damage and the easiest to fix. Overall, paint scratches on your car are superficial and can be repaired on the same day, depending on the severity.

Dents. This can occur when something hits your car, like a shopping cart in the parking lot, hail, falling branches, and so on. For minor dents, paintless dent repair can be done to fix the issue without damaging your car’s finish.

Chips. Chipped paint can be due to airborne debris or rocks that hit your car while you’re driving.

Rust. Corrosion can occur on your car’s body if it’s been exposed to moisture for too long. This requires immediate body work on a car to prevent the spread of rust.

Cracks. Cracks usually occur on your auto glass, but they can also occur on your bumpers after a minor accident.

Hail damage. After a hailstorm, your car may sustain dings and dents throughout its entire body. In some cases, the dents can be large and extensive.

Bumper damage. You’ll need bumper repair as part of car body work after a crash, collision, or similar accident.

Key scratches. This is intentional damage done by someone who scratched a key or any sharp object through your car paint. Key scratches are intentional scratches caused by someone deliberately scratching the car’s surface with a key or other sharp object.

Collision damage. After a road accident, you’ll need collision repair for an extensive restoration of your vehicle’s body. Depending on the impact, your car may need to stay in the shop for a few days to weeks.

How To Do Body Work On A Car

Body work shops for cars use various methods in fixing specific damages on your vehicle. Usually, you can expect the following steps:

1. Assessment and Estimation

Before any repairs are done, the auto body technicians will inspect your car properly. They will look for damages and assess their severity. From there, they can give you a car body work estimate based on all the repairs needed to be done.

2. Dent Repair Techniques

If your car sustained dents, the body shop can either use paintless dent repair (PDR) or traditional methods.

With PDR, the dent is popped back into place without damaging the paint and finish of your vehicle. However, this only works for small dents. So if your car has larger dents, the shop may decide to use traditional methods, which include painting and finishing. It can be more expensive due to the extra work involved.

3. Rust Repair

Auto body work also includes fixing rusting on your car. This is done by sanding the rust off the metal and filling the spot with a body filler. From there, the technician will smooth out the surface and apply touch-up paint that matches the original color of your car. However, if the rusting is too extensive, the shop may suggest that the part be replaced instead, say a rusty fender or panel.

4. Paint and Refinishing

Do you want a custom paint job or repairs for faded paint? All these are part of body work on cars.

Auto body shops can deal with small scratches or an entire color change, depending on what you want. They also use computer software to ensure that the color is a perfect match. And if you want a custom color, the shop can also find it for you.

5. Frame Straightening

Unlike the other body work we listed above, frame straightening is a more technical task. It’s often done after a collision and other major accidents.

For this repair, auto body technicians will check the alignment of the frame. They will use hydraulic tools and specialized equipment to realign the frame back to its original specifications.

Take note that DIY frame straightening is a no-no. Aside from the fact that it needs expertise, using makeshift tools can lead to serious injuries if gone wrong.

6. Collision Repair

If your vehicle gets involved in a major accident, it will sustain extensive damage both in the body and engine. For the bodywork, it’s important to seek professional collision repair. This way, your vehicle will be repaired properly, so it will be roadworthy once again.

7. Restoration and Customization

Do you have a vintage car that you want to spruce up? If so, you can opt for restoration and customization as part of extensive body work.

For this project, the auto shop will transform your old car into its good-as-new look. They may also have to procure OEM parts, especially for high-end makes and models.

How Much Is Body Work On A Car

Car body work prices are often a major concern among vehicle owners. The actual cost depends on various factors like the extent of damage, the location of the shop, and so on.

On average, you can expect to pay about $100 to $500 for minor problems like fixing a small scratch or ding. However, if you need full collision repair, you should repair to spend thousands of dollars.

We suggest that you ask for a quote from various shops to compare your options. Make sure that you factor in labor, parts, and other fees. Also, you should consider these factors:

Type and Extent of Damage. In general, small damages are cheaper to fix than larger ones. So if you’re dealing with collision damage, you’d have to shell out thousands of bucks.

Parts and Materials. If you want to save some money, you can opt for after-market parts. However, this can affect your insurance coverage and the warranty of your vehicle. And if you’re driving a high-end model, you’ll have to spend more to acquire OEM parts.

Labor Costs. This varies per shop, but it usually reflects the range of repairs your car needs. For example, if you need full-service collision repair, labor costs would be at a higher range.

Location. Auto body shops in major cities often charge higher due to higher costs of materials and cost of living. So if you want to save on repairs, consider going for shops located in less busy areas.

How To Choose The Right Body Shop For Cars

“I need car body work near me!” Before you sign up for the first shop you’ll find, let’s stop you there. Make sure you consider these points first:

The shop’s reputation. Before you sign up for repairs, you should check the shop’s reputation through online client reviews. You can also ask your friends and family if they know a reliable auto body shop where you can get repairs.

Industry experience. Most of the time, you’ll never go wrong with a shop that’s been in business for years. It’s a reflection of their experience in repairing all types of car body damage for various vehicle models.

Certifications. Although amateur shops can offer the cheapest rates, they often lack certifications that guarantee the quality of their repairs. This is why you should inquire if the shop has certifications from authorities like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair).

Warranty. Whether it’s a small repair or a full-service restoration, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask for guarantees. Most shops will offer warranty coverage on parts and labor, which is a sign that they swear by the quality of their work.

Are you looking for a car body shop?

If you’re in Burbank and looking for car body repair, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Enzo Collision. We can handle all kinds of car body damage – be it a small dent or the aftermath of a collision.

Rest assured that all our technicians are licensed and certified for the highest quality of repairs. And if you’re still weighing your options, don’t hesitate to ask for a free quote! Our team is more than happy to give you an estimate, so you can get the best bang for the buck!

August 30. 2023

by Enzo Collisionin People

What is a body shop and what they do?

Stew Broward

Head of PR (Enzo Collision)

August 30, 2023

If you’re a newbie car owner you’ve probably heard the term “body shop” before. But do you know exactly what they can do for your vehicle?

In this blog post, we’ll talk about what a body shop is, what services it offers, and what you should look for when hiring one. You’ll surely need the help of a body shop in the future, so keep reading!

What is a body shop?

Body shops, or auto body repair shops, specialize in repairing and restoring a car’s exterior. They are the place to be after your car figured in a fender-bender.

In a body shop, they focus on restoring the cosmetic and physical appearance of a vehicle’s frame and other outer parts. This is done by licensed technicians who have experience working on various car makes and models.

However, you should know that car repair and body shops are two different facilities. For one, car repair shops specialize in the mechanical aspect of your vehicle. In short, they repair engines, electronics, and other internal parts that power up your car.

On the other hand, body shops, as they are called, only work on the body or frame of your vehicle.

So where should you bring your car? Here’s a quick answer:

Bring your car to an auto body shop if…

You have damaged bumpers, hoods, panels, auto glass, and frames.
Your vehicle got involved in a collision and needs exterior repair.
You need a new paint job or touch-ups for your car’s appearance.
You need custom window tinting.
Your car has dents, dings, scratches, scrapes, and other similar damages.

Bring your car to an auto repair shop if…

Your vehicle won’t stop for unknown reasons.
You need routine maintenance like tire rotations, oil changes, or brake inspections.
You’re experiencing engine problems or faulty parts.
You need mechanical repairs for components like suspension, transmission, or fuel system.
Your car is making weird noises.
You need repair for your vehicle’s HVAC system.

Auto body shop: services offered

So what do auto body shops do? Below, we listed the most common services you can expect from an auto body shop:

1. Collision repair

Collision repair is the main service auto body shops provide. They can restore the appearance of your car after it figures into an accident and sustained minor exterior damage.

Take note that collision repair includes a lot of processes, which may include dent repair, bumper repair, painting, refinishing, and so on. In serious cases, frame straightening may also be needed.

2. Restoration and customization

Aside from repairing accident-related damage, body shops also offer customization. For example, if you want custom paintwork or body modifications, they are the place to call. Their licensed technicians can bring your vision to life, whether it’s a custom paint color or a rare finish.

3. Painting and refinishing

Is your car’s paint fading, chipping, or heavily damaged? A body shop can restore it through professional auto paint and refinishing. The good thing about body shops is they use computer software to match the exact hue of your car’s paint. They also use various painting techniques to achieve the finish that you like.

4. Structural repairs

But what do body shops do aside from external repairs? Well, they can also perform frame straightening to restore the structural integrity of your vehicle. This includes twisted or misaligned frames, which will directly impact the roadworthiness of your car.

Take note that body shops have technicians specifically trained for these repairs. They also use advanced equipment and techniques that amateurs can’t provide.

5. Dent removal

Dents are one of the most common reasons why car owners go to body shops. And at some point in your car-owning life, you’ll face this same problem.

For this damage, auto body shops can use various techniques like paintless dent repair. With this process, the dent is popped back into place without damaging your vehicle’s paint. But for bigger and deeper dents, traditional repairs might be needed.

Whatever the method is, the main goal is to restore the smooth surface of your car.

How do body shops work with car insurance?

When getting auto body repairs, one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is finding a shop that works with your insurance provider. This way, you won’t have to shoulder the entire cost of the repairs, especially if the damage is quite extensive.

The good thing is that most reputable auto body shops have direct repair status with many car insurance companies. Their process usually includes the following:

Initial assessment. After an accident, you have to contact your insurer to file a claim. Your insurance provider may also request body shop inspection and estimates before they approve any repairs.

Estimate submission. Once you have an estimate from an accredited body shop, you need to submit it to your insurance provider for approval. Take note that this estimate should include both labor and parts.

Approval process. The next thing you need to do is wait for the insurer’s approval. They may also ask for additional documentation, depending on specific situations. Once approved, the insurance company will pay for the repairs directly to the accredited body shop.

Repair process. Once approved, the body shop will start the repair process of your car.

Additional charges. In some cases, the auto body shop may charge additional fees if they discover more damage that wasn’t initially diagnosed. For this, the shop will coordinate with your insurance company to get the costs covered.

Final inspection. Once the repairs are complete, you should expect both the body shop and the insurance company to conduct a final inspection. This is to ensure that the repairs on your car are done within industry standards.

Do auto body shops give free estimates?

Another question we often get is this: Do body shops give free estimates? Since it’s usually a requirement by insurance companies, it’s normal for you to wonder if it comes at an added cost.

The good news: most auto shops provide free and no-obligation estimates. This means that you’re free to weigh your options and see which shop offers the best value for money.

After all, auto body shops are aware that insurance companies will require car owners to find the best pricing for repairs. This is why you shouldn’t hesitate to request a quote if you need body repairs for your vehicle.

When requesting an estimate, you should ask questions about the cost, inclusions, and repair process. An expert technician will be more than happy to walk you through the process in detail. They can also give you an upfront estimate for necessary parts, labor, warranties, and so on.

How much are body shop repairs?

The cost of body shop services varies widely, depending on several factors. This includes the extent of damage to your car, your vehicle’s make and model, the location of the shop, and so on.

On average, minor cosmetic repairs can set you back by at least $100 to $500. However, for bigger repairs, say frame straightening, you should expect to shell out thousands of dollars. This is much so if your car figures in a major collision.

If you need a more accurate estimate, don’t hesitate to contact your preferred auto body shop. They can give you a detailed breakdown of expenses based on the specific repairs you need. Also, they will have to inspect your car in person to give you an accurate quote.

What to look for in an auto body shop?

What’s a body shop if not for the quality of their service? If you’re looking for a body shop, make sure that you check for the following aspects:

Experience. You should look for a body shop with years of experience in the industry. This is solid proof of their expertise in handling various repairs and restoration projects.

Certifications. If you want quality repairs for your car, you should look for certified body shops. For example, they should have certifications from organizations like the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence).

Client reviews. You should also check the body shop’s client reviews. From there, you can see how well they do repairs and the quality of their customer service.

Warranty. Auto body repairs can be expensive, so make sure that the shop also offers decent warranty coverage. You should ask about their guarantees for both the parts and labor included in the repairs.

Customer service. During your consultation with the body shop, you should observe their willingness to address your concerns. If they are snobbish, you should look for another option.

Cleanliness. You should also observe if the body shop has a well-maintained and clean facility. It’s a good sign that they provide organized and quality repairs.

Are you looking for an auto body shop near you?

Do you need quality body repairs for your vehicle? If you’re in Burbank or surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact Enzo Collision. We provide full-service collision repair and customization service for any car make and model.

We know that car damage is frustrating, especially if it’s accident-related. So to save you from getting ripped off by other shops, we offer a written lifetime warranty for all repairs. Call us today and let’s restore your car to its original glory!

August 30. 2023

by Enzo Collisionin People

How to find a good body shop

Stew Broward

Head of PR (Enzo Collision)

August 28, 2023

Does your car need body repairs or touch-ups? Whatever it is, you should only go to a reputable body shop you can trust. This way, your vehicle will get top-notch care, no matter how big or small the damage is. But with dozens of options in Burbank, CA, knowing how to find a good auto body repair shop may seem like a challenge – that is until you read this guide.

In this post, our team created a checklist of what you need to look for when scouting for a body shop. We also listed red flags that you should watch out for to ensure that you’re dealing with an expert.

What is an auto body shop?

Whether your car got involved in an accident or you just some touch-ups, finding the right repair shop is crucial. However, you should know that not all ‘repair shops’ can fix specific damage on your vehicle.

If you need repairs for your car’s damaged body, you should head to an auto body shop. But if your vehicle needs mechanical repairs, say a transmission restoration, you should go to an auto repair shop.

So what’s the difference, you ask? Let us explain briefly.

What do auto body shops do? This repair shop focuses on restoring the exterior of your vehicle, which includes the panels, bumpers, frame, paint job, windows, windshields, and similar parts. As they are called, auto body shops only work on the car’s ‘body’.

On the other hand, auto repair shops specialize in diagnosing and restoring mechanical issues. They are also the shop to go to if you need help with your car’s electronics, engine, brakes, transmission, air conditioning system, and so on.

How to find a good auto body repair shop

Knowing how to pick a body shop after an accident is crucial for many reasons. First, it ensures that your car will be restored to its pre-accident condition. Second, it also guarantees your safety on the road once the repairs are done.

So if you’re looking for a reliable auto shop, here are the things you should look for:

1. Check what repairs you need

Before you search for an auto shop, you should first asses what repairs your car needs. This way, you’ll have more productive conversations with your preferred auto shop later on.

First, check what visible damage your car has. It can be a dent, crumpled panel, scratches, or an entire collision wreck. From there, you can narrow down your options based on the services that auto shops in your area offer.

2. Ask for referrals

Word of mouth is often the best way to find a reputable auto body shop. You can ask your friends and family if they know a reliable auto body shop you can contact. Chances are at least a few of them can give recommendations that you can check.

While you’re at it, ask the person about their experience with the shop. This way, you’ll have a firsthand assessment of the quality of their service. Also, you’ll know what to expect once you contact them.

3. Check the shop’s credentials

Once you have your preferred shop, the next thing you should do is check their credentials. Don’t hesitate to ask about their licenses and certifications from different organizations like Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). If you’re opting for collision repair, make sure that the shop has a certification from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR).

Aside from that, the auto body technicians should also be licensed and certified. This way, you’ll be assured of quality repairs on your vehicle.

4. Visit the shop

If possible, try to visit the shop where you plan to bring your car. There, you can have an in-person consultation with a technician about the repairs you can get. If your car is still in good driving condition, you can also bring it over, so the technicians can personally inspect the damage.

While you’re there, observe the cleanliness and organization of the show. Most the time, these two things will say a lot about the quality of their service.

5. Request for an estimate

Before you commit to any repairs, make sure that you ask for an estimate. This way, you can compare it with other shops to see which one offers the best value for money.

Make sure that you read the estimate properly and check how much they charge for parts, labor, and additional services. If there are any vague fees, don’t hesitate to ask the auto body shop for clarification.

Still, you should know that the cheapest estimate isn’t always the best option. Dirt-cheap repairs could mean that the shop is using substandard supplies and possibly unlicensed for their services.

6. Ask about their warranty coverage

A good auto body shop will always swear by its workmanship through reasonable warranty coverage. So when scouting for a shop, make sure that inquire about this part as well.

For example, with Enzo Collision, you’ll enjoy a written lifetime warranty for all repairs we’ve done. This applies as long as you own or lease the vehicle.

This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re protected from additional costs in case issues arise from the repairs. It’s also a good sign that the shop provides quality and long-lasting results.

7. Review their past work

The shop’s previous works are great references for the quality of their service. You can ask for before-and-after auto body repair photos to see how well they can restore vehicles. If possible, look for photos of similar repairs that you need.

If the shop refuses or tries to evade this request, consider it as a red flag. You should look for another option.

8. Inquire about the repair process

Even if you’re not well-versed in the technicalities of car repair, it’s still best that you understand what the shop will do to your car. From there, you can also assess the expertise of the technicians in fixing body damage on a car.

Ask about the repair techniques they will use and how long it will take. Aside from that, inquire if they can acquire OEM parts, especially if you’re driving a fancy vehicle model.

9. Discuss insurance and payment options

Another aspect of how to find a good auto body shop is their partnership with insurance providers. Look for a shop approved by your insurance provider to ensure that the repair costs will be covered accordingly.

Aside from that, you should discuss payment options with your preferred auto shop. You should ask if they accept direct billing from insurance companies or if you need to pay upfront and just get reimbursed later. As much as possible, look for a shop that accepts the former.

10. Compare Quotes and Choose Wisely

As with anything that you’ll spend your money on, don’t settle for the very first auto body shop you’ll find. Always shop around and compare quotes to see where you can get the best car repairs within your budget.

Also, you should assess the shop’s reputation, customer reviews, expertise, and pricing before making your final decision. Overall, cost should be your final concern; you should always focus on the quality of their service.

Red flags to watch out for

Aside from the things you should look for, you should also be aware of the red flags that may indicate that the shop is unreliable. Here are some of it:

Lack of proper certifications. If the body shop can’t provide you with proof of their certifications or credentials, it’s a big red flag that they aren’t fit to do repairs.

Unwillingness to provide references. If the auto body shop refuses to provide you with references of their past work, it could be a sign that they aren’t confident with the quality of their repairs.

Poor customer service or unresponsive staff. Car repairs aren’t cheap, so a body shop with bad communication or unresponsive staff isn’t a good choice. This reflects their lack of professionalism, which will be a hassle on your part.

Unorganized or dirty facility. Is the shop a total mess? This could mean that their repairs are as disorganized as their facility.

Unrealistically low estimates. Be careful with lowballing auto shops as this could be a sign of substandard repairs. Affordability is a good thing if you want to save money, but you should ensure that it won’t impact the quality of their service.

No warranty coverage is offered. A reliable auto body shop will always provide some sort of guarantee for their repairs. So if your chosen shop doesn’t offer any, you should consider another option.

Looking for a reliable auto body shop in Burbank?

If you’re looking for a reliable auto body shop in Burbank, don’t hesitate to call Enzo Collision. We offer expert collision repair for any car make and model.

The best part? We offer a lifetime warranty on all our repairs and we have direct repair status from various insurance companies. For your convenience, we also provide complete auto insurance claim handling with a lawyer onsite.

Do you already have an estimate from other shops? Call us today and we’ll give you a better offer!

August 30. 2023

by Enzo Collisionin People

How to avoid head on collision

Stew Broward

Head of PR (Enzo Collision)

August 25, 2023

According to the Insurance Information Institute, head-on collisions resulted in 3,631 deaths in 2020 alone. Head-on car collisions are also responsible for thousands of severe injuries – proving even more that it’s one of the most fatal road accidents. And as a fellow driver, we don’t want you to be part of this statistic.

So in this blog post, we sit down with our expert team to discuss 10 ways how to avoid a head-on collision. We compiled it into this short list that you should read before you go on your next trip.

What is a head-on collision?

Head-on collisions put a whole new meaning to the expression ‘bumper-to-bumper’. As it’s called, this type of collision will happen if an oncoming driver is headed toward you as you’re driving. It’s also referred to as head-to-head or front-to-front collisions.

Moreover, the impact of a head-on collision can cause severe damage to your vehicle and the other car involved. It will inflate your airbags together with a slew of interior and exterior damage.

However, collisions are more than just cars hitting each other. It can cause serious injuries to you and your passengers. Some could experience whiplash, broken bones, wounds from shattered glass, and so on.

In some cases, a head-on collision can also lead to life-threatening conditions like internal organ damage and traumatic brain injuries.

But why does this happen? The main culprit is wrong-way driving when two cars from opposite lanes overtake at the same time.

Still, you should know that head-on collisions can also be due to external factors. For example, you’ll have an increased risk for this accident during poor weather conditions or if your car has control issues. Also, driving when you’re sleepy can end up in a collision if you doze off.

How To Avoid A Head-On Collision

To avoid a collision, you should balance internal and external factors. Below, our team listed 10 effective ways to prevent you from getting into this accident:

1. “Stay in your lane”

Do you know the expression “stay in your own lane?” That applies literally when you’re driving and want to avoid a collision.

You should always drive on your designated lane and follow all road signs. This way, you’ll have a lower risk of figuring into a fender-bender – whether it’s a collision or something else.

As much as possible, avoid unnecessary lane changes. But if you badly need to overtake, make sure that you’re in the clear since this is one of the most common causes of front-to-front collisions.

2. Avoid distracted driving

Distracted driving is the main culprit to many road accidents, including your much-dreaded head-on collision. You should always keep your eyes on the road and avoid the urge to use your phone or eat a meal.

If you really need to answer a call or text, you should stop on the safe side of the road first. The same goes if you’re starving and just want a quick bite.

Overall, anything that takes your eyes off the road is considered distracted driving. Aside from the risk of collisions, you can also get pulled over by the cops.

3. Follow traffic signs and signals

Do you remember your theoretical driving course? Those lessons are not just a mere requirement to get your license, but they can also be life-saving.

A habit as simple as following traffic signs and using proper signals can save you from a catastrophic accident. It will also keep other drivers near you safe.

With that, make sure that you stop at stop signs, follow speed limits, and yield to other vehicles if necessary. Above all, don’t lose your cool when things get a bit inconvenient on the road.

4. Stay sober and alert

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol can be very dangerous, especially on a busy road. You can easily figure into a head-on collision that can endanger the lives of innocent people.

Take note that you’ll likely face felony charges if the head-on collision you caused while DUI killed somebody.

So to be safe, avoid drinking alcohol or taking any drug that could impair your senses. Aside from that, you should get a good night’s sleep, especially before a very long road trip.

5. Use defensive driving techniques

To avoid a collision, you should practice defensive driving. This technique is about being aware of your surroundings and taking proactive steps to prevent accidents. Overall, this is very effective in preventing head-on collisions on the road.

Aside from that, you should keep a safe distance from other vehicles in front of you. This will give you enough time to react in case something unexpected happens. Also, you should anticipate sudden maneuvers from other drivers who may not be following the rules.

Overall, always check your mirrors. Also, you should stay focused and calm to prevent collisions and other problems on the road.

6. Pass Safely

Stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle? Our first instinct is to overtake, so we can finally go on our way. But before you do so, make sure that there’s enough space to maneuver and that you’re using proper signals.

Aside from that, always watch out for any incoming traffic before you move, so you can pass safely and avoid a car head-on collision.

After that, make sure you’re in the proper lane. Be extra careful and always practice patience – remember, some slow drivers might be dealing with road problems, too.

7. Be extra careful at night

Driving at night is a good way to avoid heavy traffic, but it also increases the risk of head-on collisions if you’re not careful.

Your number one enemy at night is poor visibility, especially if you’re going to drive along blind curves. This is why you should use your headlights properly – not too bright but not too dim either.

Aside from that, you should slow down a bit, so you’ll have enough time to react in case a car comes out of nowhere in the dark. Also, be on the lookout for animals – some of them love lurking on the roads at night.

Above all, make sure that you have enough sleep before going for a night ride. If you feel tired or sleepy, don’t hesitate to take a pit stop for a short rest.

8. Handle curves and hills properly

When approaching curves or hills, you should be extra careful to avoid head-on collisions. As we’ve mentioned earlier, these types of roads are notorious for all kinds of accidents.

Always slow down, so you’ll have control over your vehicle as you go through a steep curve or hill. Also, don’t try to overtake while cruising along a curve as it can easily lead to collisions.

As much as you might be in a hurry, taking your time driving along curves and hills will save you from more trouble later on.

9. Be alert when driving multilane roads

Multilane roads let you enjoy smoother traffic, but it also comes with some dangers if you’re not careful. It’s important to position your vehicle carefully either in the middle or right lane unless you’re planning to overtake another vehicle.

Aside from that, avoid tailgating, so you’ll have enough distance to react in case the vehicle in front suddenly stops or maneuvers. Also, mind your blind spots or areas where other vehicles may not be visible to you.

And as we’ve mentioned a couple of times, always be a defensive driver. As much as you’re following the rules, other drives may not. So be alert and always keep your eyes on the road, so you can react right away in case unexpected situations occur.

10. Inspect your car before driving

Whether you’re going for a short ride or a long trip, you should always check your car for any damages. Make sure that your brakes, lights, tires, fluid levels, and wipers are all in good functioning condition. This way, you can take control of your car if a vehicle is approaching you head-on.

Aside from preventing collisions, keeping your vehicle in good condition will also reduce the risk of other accidents. So if your car has any damage, it’s best to get it repaired immediately.

Also, it’s best to bring your car to an auto body shop for a yearly inspection. This way, you can spot problems before they put you at risk of collisions.

What to do after a head-to-head collision

If the unexpected happens and you figure in a head-on collision, it’s important to prioritize everyone’s safety. If you can, assess the situation and bring everyone to a safe spot. After that, call the authorities for help.

Once the incident has been reported and everyone’s safe, you should also secure your car. You can call us at Enzo Collision for collision repair with free tow truck service.

We can pick up your damaged car and bring it to our shop for repairs. Rest assured that we will restore your vehicle’s auto body to its original condition. Whether it’s head-on, side-impact, or rear-end collision, our experts can repair all types of auto body damage.

If you need our help or you’re interested in a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

What To Do When Someone Hits Your Parked Car

August 30. 2023

by Enzo Collisionin People

What To Do When Someone Hits Your Parked Car

Stew Broward

Head of PR (Enzo Collision)

August 25, 2023

Accidents happen, but nothing is more frustrating than discovering your car was hit while parked. But instead of letting your emotions get in the way, you should focus on the right thing steps to do next.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you on what to do when someone hits your parked car and vice versa. Keep reading to know more!

Someone hit my parked car, what should I do?

For sure, the last thing you should do is panic and lose your temper. We know that it’s frustrating, but instead of making matters worse, you can do the following steps:

1. Assess the Situation

If someone hits your car while parked, the first thing you should do is check the damage. You should look closely at your vehicle and inspect for dents, broken lights, scratches, and so on. This way, you’ll know if it’s still safe to drive your car or if you need to call a tow truck service.

But before you move your car, you should contact the authorities first (more on this below). After all, you wouldn’t want to ruin the ‘crime scene’.

2. Report the incident

Once you’ve checked your car, the next step is to report the incident right away. You should call your local police department, so they can investigate the matter. Also, they can advise you about what to do next to ensure that you’ll be compensated properly.

Also, filing a police report is crucial in processing your insurance claim later on. The report usually includes the date and time of the incident, details of the damage, location, photos, and parties involved. All these will support your insurance claim and reduce the risk of getting denied.

If the person at fault is nowhere in sight, you should file a police report for hit and-run parked car. The police can also tell you what to do in a hit-and-run parked car situation. From there, they will start the investigation to find the culprit.

3. Collect Information

While waiting for the police to arrive, you should use the time to collect information about the incidents. Write down the time, date, and location of the incident as well as the nature of the incident.

Also, ask surrounding establishments if they have cameras on the location where your car is parked. Kindly request a copy of the footage that you can use for filling a police report and supporting your claim.

Aside from that, try to look for witnesses who can give you more information on the situation. Make sure that you ask for their name and contact number should you need their help later on. But what if it’s a hit-and-run parked car, no witness? You need to take notes and file a report just the same.

If the person at fault is at the scene, ask for his contact and insurance information. You should also request the person to stay and wait for the authorities to arrive.

4. Document the Incident

Start by taking photos and videos of the damage – both close-ups and wide shots. This will be very useful when filing a police report and processing an insurance claim.

Aside from that, you should also take pictures of the surrounding areas. Include shots of any relevant signage or landmark that can help establish the location of the incident.

As we’ve mentioned earlier, these photographs will help in speeding up your insurance payments. It will also be a valuable piece of evidence in case you’re planning to file legal charges.

If other vehicles or property is also damaged, you should also take pictures of this. You should also jot down notes about their conditions to help support your police report and insurance claims.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’re reporting the incident to the authorities, it’s now time to call your insurance company. It’s important to contact them as soon as possible to prevent any hiccups. Take note that insurers will start to get skeptical if you wait for days to report that your car was hit while parked.

Make sure that you’re prepared with all the necessary documents to support your claim. You should compile all the photos and videos you’ve taken together with eyewitness accounts. All these will speed up the investigation of your insurance company, leading to a smooth claims process.

Aside from that, you should receive your policy coverage and deductibles if there are any.

6. File a Claim

The next step on what to do if someone hits your parked car is to file a claim. This way, you can start the repair of your vehicle without shouldering all the costs. If the person at fault cooperated, his policy will be liable for the damage repair.

Aside from all the documents you need to submit, your insurer may also for estimates from their approved repair shops.

7. Repairing Your Car

Once your claim is approved, it’s time for the elbow grease. You should look for a licensed and certified collision repair shop. Make sure that the shop specializes in the specific make and model of your vehicle. This is much so if you’re driving a high-end car.

Also, keep all receipts and documentation from the repairs. You can use this for future reference in case you figure in a similar accident.

Aside from that, you should stay in touch with your insurance company throughout the duration of the repairs. This way, you can provide them with additional information as needed.

How to avoid getting your car hit while parked

“My car got hit while parked, how do I prevent it from happening again?” As with any accident, there are many ways to save your car from similar problems in the future.

Here are some methods that will protect your vehicle – and you – from the dangers of parked car fender-benders:

Park in a well-lit area. If you’re parking at night, choose a spot near street lights or establishments. This way, your vehicle is visible to other drivers and less likely to get hit.
Avoid high-traffic areas. Parking on the side of a busy road is a bold choice and increases the risk of accidents. Instead, choose quieter areas or roads with lower speed limits.
Choose a wide parking area. We know that this isn’t always easy to come by, but try to find a spot with enough space for other drivers to maneuver.
Use parking technologies. While this won’t necessarily shield your car from getting hit, it helps in filing a report or insurance claim. Consider installing dash cams, rear cameras, and parking sensors for added security.
Check nearby hazards. Aside from other cars, your parked vehicle can also get hit by shopping cards and poles. Also, you have to be mindful of curbs and uneven surfaces that could damage your car.

What happens if you hit a parked car and leave?

Wait before we end this post, let’s flip the situation quickly, shall we? What if you’re the one who hit a parked car and decided to take off?

Although you didn’t intend for the accident to happen, you’re still completely liable for the damage. Also, leaving the scene of the accident will not do you any favor. It’s a criminal offense and you can get sued by the owner of the car you hit.

Remember that hit-and-runs are illegal and unethical. Instead of getting scared, you should stop and think of the following:

Dos

Wait for the car owner to arrive to discuss the situation.
If you can’t stay, write your contact and insurance information on a piece of paper and tuck it on the car’s windshield.
You can also call the police to report the incident yourself.
Take your own photos and videos of the incident, so you won’t be liable for damages that will occur once the car is moved.
Inform your insurance company about the accident
Talk to witnesses to help reenact the accident
Consider calling an attorney if the car owner is threatening to sue you.

Don’ts

Avoid freaking out or fleeing the scene out of fear (again, hit-and-runs are illegal!)
Don’t lose your patience.

But what should I do if I hit a parked car and fled the scene? You should try to calm down and call the police. This way, you can explain what happened and avoid the possibility of getting serious penalties. Also, you can reach out to a lawyer to help you on what to do next.

Do you need repairs for your damaged car?

“Someone hit my car while parked, what now?” Well, after you’ve reported it to the authorities and called your insurance company, the next thing to do is contact us at Enzo Collision.

Our team of auto body experts will restore your vehicle to its original condition. Whether it’s a dented hood, crumpled panels, shattered glass, and so on, you can count on us to fix it for you.

We also offer complete auto insurance claim handling with an onsite lawyer. The best part? If you’re eligible, you’ll get a free rental car while we repair your vehicle. Call us today and see if qualify!