What to Do After a Car Accident: A Complete Collision Repair Guide for Pennsylvania Drivers
Knowing what to do after a car accident can be overwhelming, whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision. In those first few moments, you might be flooded with questions: What steps should I take? Who can I trust to repair my vehicle? How much will this cost?
At Conestoga Collision in Berwyn, PA, we understand these concerns. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through every step of the post-accident and collision repair process—with insights straight from the professionals who do this every day.
Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Your safety is the highest priority. Move vehicles out of traffic if possible, turn on hazard lights, and check everyone for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt or if the damage is extensive.
Even if injuries are not apparent, it’s always smart to see a medical professional. Delayed symptoms are common in car accidents. Keep a small emergency kit in your glovebox, and keep your insurance card, registration, and contact list for towing services readily accessible.
Step 2: Document and Report the Accident
Gather the following at the scene:
- Photos of the damage, surrounding area, and traffic indicators
- Contact and insurance information from all parties involved
- Names and contact info of any witnesses
- The police report number
These documents will be essential for insurance claims and vehicle repair evaluations. Be sure to request a copy of the police report and keep your own notes about what occurred.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Provider
Promptly inform your insurer about the accident. Provide them with the details and documentation you’ve gathered. Remember, you have the legal right to choose your own repair shop. You’re not obligated to use the one your insurance recommends.
Some insurers may suggest multiple shops. Do your research, compare credentials, and look for certifications like I-CAR Gold Class. A high-quality shop can make all the difference in long-term vehicle safety and resale value.
Step 4: Schedule a Collision Repair Estimate
At Conestoga Collision, estimates (also known as appraisals) are by appointment only. This allows us to dedicate time and attention to each vehicle. If your car isn’t drivable, we can help coordinate towing to our Berwyn facility.
Here’s what to expect during your estimate appointment:
- You’ll meet with Max, Tom, or Francis who will gather your vehicle and contact details.
- We’ll conduct a walk-through inspection, photographing all visible damage.
- We send a written estimate via email, usually same-day.
- Over phone or in person, we’ll walk you through the scope of repairs and answer every question you have.
Our estimates are free, on-site, and typically take about 15 minutes. We’re happy to explain unfamiliar terms and provide real-world insight about timelines, parts availability, and repair techniques.
Understanding Repair Estimates and Hidden Damage
Why Estimates Vary So Much
Auto body repair costs depend on:
- Make and model
- Type of damage
- OEM vs aftermarket parts
- Labor rates and materials
For example, replacing a bumper could range from $300 to over $1,600 depending on vehicle type and parts required. This is why online estimates are unreliable. The only accurate quote is one from a trained professional evaluating the actual vehicle.
We recommend obtaining multiple quotes, but we don’t price match. Our estimates reflect the quality of our work, the precision of our equipment, and our extensive training.
Hidden Damage
During our initial Sight Estimate, we can only assess visible damage. Modern cars often suffer unseen mechanical or electrical issues, especially involving Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Once we disassemble your vehicle with a signed customer contract, we run diagnostics and perform a post-repair scan. Any new issues discovered are added to a supplement estimate, which you must approve before work continues.
We’ll always be upfront about the likelihood of hidden damage and walk you through your options.
Our 6-Step Collision Repair Process at Conestoga Collision
1. Estimating and Repair Planning
We treat our estimates as detailed repair plans. Every plan follows OEM guidelines to ensure your vehicle is restored correctly and safely. We consider both visible and suspected issues when creating this blueprint for repairs.
2. Disassembly and Inspection
We clean and carefully disassemble the damaged area. This helps us uncover additional issues and refine our Repair Plan. Each removed part is cataloged, and anything requiring paint is matched precisely for blending.
3. Structural and Body Repair
Our I-CAR Gold Class certified structural technicians handle all physical repairs, including rivet-bonded aluminum work on vehicles like Teslas. We prioritize safety and ensure repairs maintain factory tolerances.
4. Refinishing
We use premium BASF Glasurit paint for a factory-finish. All surfaces are sanded, primed, and finished with precision. Our team ensures every layer is evenly applied and edges are smooth, avoiding the overspray you might see from lower-tier facilities.
5. Reassembly
The same technician who disassembled your vehicle puts it back together, ensuring fit, function, and attention to detail. This continuity reduces errors and enhances final quality.
6. Final Quality Check
We perform a full scan to confirm no diagnostic codes remain. Then, we road test your vehicle and check for wind noise, vibration, or other irregularities. Once we’re confident everything meets our standards, your vehicle is detailed and returned. You’ll receive a final walkthrough and have a chance to ask any last questions.
FAQs: What You Need to Know
Do I need an appointment for an estimate?
Yes. We offer appointment-only estimates to respect your time and ensure quality.
Are estimates free?
Absolutely. Our on-site estimates are free of charge.
Do you offer online or teardown estimates?
No. Online estimates are too inaccurate, and teardown inspections are only done with a signed contract.
Will you match another shop’s estimate?
No. Our pricing reflects our experience, equipment, and Gold Class-certified quality.
Can you help arrange a tow?
Yes. If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, we can assist with towing arrangements.
What if more damage is found later?
We will create a supplemental estimate for any hidden damage and review it with you before continuing work. You maintain control throughout the process.
Why Drivers Trust Conestoga Collision
- Gold Class Certified: The only I-CAR Gold Class shop in Berwyn
- Advanced Training: Experts in aluminum and electric vehicle repair
- Customer First: We’ve been through this process ourselves and take the time to answer every question
- Factory-Correct Repairs: From ADAS calibration to perfect paint matching
- No Pressure: We walk you through the estimate and let you decide
- Trusted Reputation: With over a decade of service on the Main Line, we’ve earned lifelong customers through transparency, integrity, and quality workmanship
Contact Us Today
Still wondering what to do after a car accident? Let us walk you through it. We’re not just body shop experts—we’re real people who care.
Call: (610) 644-1000
Visit: 961 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, PA 19312
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30AM–5:30PM
Make an appointment
Schedule your free, appointment-based estimate today. Let Conestoga Collision restore your vehicle—and your peace of mind.