Even if no one is injured, the shock of an auto accident can be overwhelming. However, think carefully through your next steps as they may have an impact on your future safety. There are some persistent ideas out there regarding collision repair that cause many to take unnecessary risks or spend more money on fixes than they need to. Below, learn the truth behind some of these common myths.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Collision Repair?

1. If The Car Looks Fine, It Doesn’t Need Repairs

Schedule collision repair services even if your car appears to be in working order. It may have sustained damages you cannot see that affect its functionality and safety, including loose motor mount connections, misaligned wheels, or frame bending. The transmission can also crack and cause issues, such as fluid leaks and lowered response times.

2. You Must Choose the Auto Repair Shop Your Insurance Company Suggests

Work with an auto repair shop you trust, whether it is recommended by your insurance carrier or not. Agencies have lists of preferred shops under their Direct Repair Programs. These shops perform repairs quickly to make agency deadlines so the carrier will continue working with them, which can result in faulty repairs. You are not legally obligated to work with agency-suggested repair shops.

Do your own research to find an auto body center that meets your needs featuring certified, experienced technicians who follow OEM guidelines to repair your vehicle. Then, before work begins, confirm they will coordinate with your carrier.

3. Your Insurance Policy Covers All Damages

Contact your insurance agency to determine how much of the collision repair the company will cover. You may receive full, partial, or no coverage depending on your policy and whether you live in a fault or no-fault state.

If you live in a fault state such as Oklahoma and did not cause the accident, you can seek compensation through your own collision coverage or by filing a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier. In some cases, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

Take your car to Premier Collision Center for the collision repairs it needs to remain safe and driveable. The auto body repair shop in Broken Arrow, OK, offers over 500 years of combined experience from certified technicians. They also have a Department of Environmental Quality Gold Star rating. Call (918) 258-9595 today to make an appointment or learn more about their services online. Like the Facebook page for safe driving tips.