What to Do After a Car Accident San Jose: Steps Before You Call a Body Shop
If your car was just hit, the body shop is not your first call. This guide covers what to do after a car accident in San Jose, from the first minutes at the scene to the point where you're ready to get the car looked at. The steps are short, and doing them in order makes the repair process easier later.
What should I do first right after a car accident?
Check yourself and everyone else for injuries before you think about the car. If anyone is hurt or the vehicles are in a dangerous spot, call 911.
If the car can be driven and it is safe to move, get it out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights, and stay put if moving the car would put you at risk.
What should I document at the scene?
Take photos of all the vehicles, the damage from several angles, and the surrounding road before anything is moved. Then exchange names, contact details, and insurance information with the other driver.
A few other things are worth capturing:
- License plates on every vehicle involved
- Street signs or landmarks that show where it happened
- Anything on the road, such as debris or skid marks
- Contact information for any witnesses
Should I call my insurance company before a body shop?
Yes. Report the accident to your insurer first so the claim is on record, and ask what they need from you. AW Collision works with all major insurance providers and coordinates the estimate and insurance paperwork once your car is with us.
You don't have to figure out the repair details on that first call. Your photos and the other driver's information are enough to get started.
What if my car can't be driven?
Don't try to drive a car that is leaking fluid, has a wheel that won't turn straight, or feels unsafe. Arrange to have it moved somewhere secure, then get it looked at.
If the car ends up at a different location outside our business hours, AW Collision offers after-hours drop-off. Our hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and closed Sunday.
Do I need an appointment to get an estimate?
No. Estimates at AW Collision are free, and you can come in without an appointment. An in-person inspection is the most accurate way to see what the damage involves.
Bring your photos and your claim information if you have them. You will find us at 1729 Junction Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112.
Does it matter which body shop repairs my car?
It can. A shop that speaks up for proper repairs and OEM parts, rather than the cheapest option, is working for the long-term condition of your car. At AW Collision San Jose, frame and unibody repair uses computerized laser measuring, and paint work uses computerized color matching.
Our San Jose location holds these certifications:
- I-CAR Gold Class Collision Repair
- Acura Certified Collision Repair Facility
- BMW Certified Collision Repair Center
- Ford Certified Collision Network
- Honda Certified Collision Repair Facility
- Lexus Authorized Collision Center
- Audi and Toyota
How long will the repair take?
It depends on the damage and on parts availability. Small repairs can take 3 to 5 days, and extensive structural damage can take 2 to 3 weeks.
You get updates throughout the repair. If you need a car in the meantime, Midway rental is one of the services we offer.
What happens after I bring my car in?
Your car moves through a set sequence of steps, from the first look at the damage to a final check before you pick it up.
| Step | What happens |
|---|
| 1. Intake and damage assessment | We inspect the vehicle and record the damage |
| 2. Insurance and estimate coordination | We work through the estimate and your insurer |
| 3. Frame and structural repair | Computerized laser measuring guides structural work |
| 4. Body and panel repair | Damaged panels are repaired |
| 5. Color-matched painting | Paint is matched by computer |
| 6. Final quality check | The finished repair is checked before delivery |
Body and paint work is covered by a written lifetime warranty for as long as you own the vehicle.
FAQ
Is the estimate really free?
Yes, estimates at AW Collision are free. You don't need an appointment to get one.
Will you work with my insurance company?
We work with all major insurance providers. We also speak up for proper repairs and OEM parts, not just the cheapest option.
Can I just drop in for an inspection?
Yes, no appointment is required for an estimate. An in-person inspection is the most accurate, so it's worth bringing the car if it is safe to drive.
What are your hours in San Jose?
We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We are closed on Sunday, and after-hours drop-off is available.
Is the repair work guaranteed?
Body and paint work comes with a written lifetime warranty. It lasts for as long as you own the vehicle.
What can I get besides collision repair?
We also offer paint protection film, detailing, and Midway rental. Frame and unibody repair and paint work are part of our regular services as well.
Ready to get your car looked at?
Call AW Collision San Jose at (408) 392-1200, or stop by 1729 Junction Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112. No appointment is needed for a free estimate.