The last thing to cross your mind when you’re traveling in your vehicle is body work due to damage. We can’t always prevent hail storms or collisions while on a road trip, but Dent Doctor can ease the chaos that might ensue afterward.

Insurance

If you have up-to-date car insurance you should be covered in any state in the U.S. This is a generalization among U.S. insurance companies but we suggest you speak with your agent prior to your trip to know exactly what coverage you have and if there are any restrictions when it comes to travel.

Make sure you are traveling with your actual up-to-date insurance card. It’s easy to forget to replace the old card in your wallet or car. Double-check before you leave!

Immediate Attention

Before you do anything else, make sure everyone is okay. If someone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If there doesn’t appear to be any injuries, some states require that accidents are moved out of the way so that the flow of traffic can continue. Unless you’re a true road warrior, you may not be aware of all the road laws in the state(s) you’re traveling in – so if it’s applicable, try to take pictures of the crash before you move off the road.

Exchange Information

Whether the accident was your fault of theirs, or it was minor or major, insurance and contact information needs to be exchanged. If police are on the scene, they may aid in this process.

Who’s At Fault

Parked Cars

If you hit a parked car, chances are someone saw you do it. It’s best practice (and a law in most states) that you try to find the owner of said car. If you can’t locate the driver, you should leave a note on their car. Your note should include your name, your address, your phone number, and a brief explanation of the accident. If someone else owns the car you are driving, leave their information in the note as well. Before driving away, be sure to take photos of your car, their car, and the scene of the accident.

If someone hit your parked car and you witnessed it or the person found you – remain calm – they are probably just as worked up as you are. Exchange information and take photos. If there is noticeable damage, call the police so they can make a report.

Aftermath

After any accident, be sure to contact your insurance company and the other party’s insurance company. Don’t let a driver talk you into settling the issue yourselves – that could really burn you in the end. If the other party is angry or in denial, be sure to collect as much information as possible including a vehicle description and license plate number.

Repairs

Depending on the extent of the damage from either bad weather, falling objects, or a collision, you may wait until you come home to have your vehicle repaired. If you’re able to do that, contact a repair shop right away to schedule an estimate and an appointment.

The Dent Doctor is in and ready to fix your minor dings and scratches. We specialize in Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) and can make it look like the dent never happened! We also offer mobile services, meaning we come to you! Serving the Delta, Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction, and Montrose areas!