Complete Guide to Collision Repair: What to Expect After an Accident

Being involved in a car accident is stressful, and dealing with collision repair afterward can be overwhelming. Whether you're searching for a trusted auto body shop or want to understand the collision repair process, knowing what to expect can make all the difference in getting your vehicle back on the road safely and efficiently.

At PDRTX Smart Auto Repair, we specialize in professional auto body repair, dent removal, paint restoration, and simple structural repairs, ensuring your car is restored to factory standards.

If your vehicle was recently in an accident, start with a free online estimate or call (469) 903-4669 for expert service.

6 Steps to Take After a Car Accident

1. Get to Safety & Call for Help

Immediately after an accident, move your vehicle out of traffic if possible and call 911 to report the incident. Even minor accidents should be documented through an official police report, which will be essential when filing an insurance claim.

2. Document the Damage

Take clear, detailed photos of:
✔ All vehicles involved in the accident
✔ Visible damage to your car from multiple angles
✔ Debris, road conditions, and weather
✔ Any visible injuries

These photos will be critical for your insurance claim and for obtaining an accurate collision repair estimate.

🔗 Related Guide: 6 Steps to Take If Your Vehicle Is Damaged by Hail

3. Exchange Insurance Information

If another driver is involved, exchange details including:
✔ Name and contact information
✔ Insurance provider and policy number
✔ License plate number and vehicle make/model

This information will be required when filing an insurance claim and scheduling repairs.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance provider to start a claim. They will guide you through:
✔ What your collision insurance covers
✔ Your deductible costs
✔ Whether a rental car is covered during repairs

For a quick repair estimate, use our online estimate tool today.

5. Choose a Trusted Collision Repair Shop

Your insurance company may recommend repair shops, but you have the right to choose any certified auto body shop. Choosing a high-quality repair center ensures:
✔ OEM-quality repairs that match manufacturer specifications
✔ Advanced paint matching for a seamless finish
✔ Manufacturer-approved replacement parts

At PDRTX Smart Auto Repair, we use certified technicians, cutting-edge repair techniques, and premium materials to restore your vehicle.

🔗 Read our customer reviews to see why we’re a top-rated shop in the DFW.

6. Schedule Your Repairs & Get Back on the Road

Once your insurance claim is processed and the repair estimate is approved, your car will go through the collision repair and refinishing process.

💡 Need a rental while your car is repaired? Learn about your options in our Car Rental Agreement Guide.

🔗 Schedule your repair appointment today or call (469) 903-4669.

The Collision Repair Process: What to Expect

Every collision repair is unique, but here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens when you bring your vehicle to PDRTX Smart Auto Repair.

1. Damage Inspection & Estimate

Our certified technicians perform a comprehensive inspection to assess:
✔ Structural damage to the frame
✔ Dents, scratches, and broken parts
✔ Mechanical damage to suspension and engine components

🔗 Get a free repair estimate today.

2. Insurance Approval & Parts Ordering

Once the repair estimate is approved, our team orders OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts to ensure precise repairs.

3. Vehicle Disassembly & Structural Repairs

✔ Damaged parts are removed
✔ Frame is realigned (if needed) using computerized measuring systems
✔ Mechanical repairs are completed

4. Painting & Refinishing

A professional paint-matching system ensures your car’s new paint blends seamlessly with its original color.

🔗 Learn more about our vehicle painting services.

5. Reassembly & Final Inspection

✔ All components are reinstalled
✔ Final detailing & cleaning is completed
✔ Comprehensive quality control inspection ensures safety and aesthetics

6. Vehicle Pickup & Warranty Coverage

Once your car is fully repaired, you’ll receive a final invoice, warranty details, and inspection report.

🔗 See why customers trust our collision repair services.

5 Expert Tips for Collision Repair

✔ Choose Your Own Repair Shop – Don’t feel pressured to use the shop your insurance company suggests.
✔ Get Multiple Estimates – Compare costs but focus on quality over price.
✔ Ensure OEM or High-Quality Parts – Ask about factory-certified replacement parts.
✔ Let Your Repair Shop Handle Insurance – Avoid the hassle of coordinating claims yourself.
✔ Request Updates on Additional Repairs – Hidden damage may be found after disassembly.

🔗 Find trusted repair services at PDRTX Smart Auto Repair.

Get a Free Collision Repair Estimate Today

At PDRTX Smart Auto Repair, we are committed to high-quality collision repair, expert craftsmanship, and superior customer service. Whether you need auto body repair, paintwork, or dent removal, our certified technicians are here to help.

✔ Expert Collision Repair in the DFW
✔ Certified Technicians & OEM-Quality Parts
✔ Fast, Free Repair Estimates

📞 Call (469) 903-4669 or Get a Free Estimate Online today.