First, remain calm. If there are injuries, call 911 right away. Avoid moving your vehicle unless it's unsafe to stay where you are. Collect the names, phone numbers, driver’s license information, license plate numbers, and insurance details of all other drivers involved. If possible, gather contact details from any witnesses. Take note of the accident's location, date, and time. Use your phone’s camera to capture photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any witnesses.

Choose a body shop that provides a detailed written estimate, follows a consistent repair process, and employs trained, certified technicians. Prioritize shops that use high-quality parts, offer regular updates during repairs, deliver your vehicle on time, and perform a comprehensive inspection before returning your car to you. Exceptional customer service should also be a key consideration.

A repair estimate should include a detailed assessment of the required work, a list of parts to be used, and information on what your insurance will and won’t cover. It should also provide a clear cost breakdown. Differences in estimates from various shops often stem from how thoroughly each shop identifies necessary repairs. Some shops may leave out essential fixes in the initial estimate. At Milstead Collision, we take the time to identify every step needed for a safe, high-quality repair.

If your vehicle is damaged in a storm, report it to your insurance agent right away. Take photos of the damage, including branches, mud, water, or other debris affecting your car. If your vehicle was submerged, do not attempt to drive it, as critical components may have been compromised. Trust a well-established body shop that has been serving the area long before the storm occurred.

Vehicle damage can result from various sources, such as normal wear and tear, collisions, improper cleaning techniques, parking lot incidents, or vandalism. Environmental factors like UV rays, falling branches, hail, ice, salt, or road debris can also harm your car’s paint and body. Addressing damage promptly helps prevent further issues down the line.

While appointments aren’t mandatory, they are highly recommended. Milstead Collision offers flexible scheduling to ensure you can set up a time that fits your needs.

When filing an insurance claim, rest assured that Milstead Collision collaborates with all major insurance providers. We’ll handle communication with the insurers, schedule an inspection, and even assist you in finding a rental car while repairs are underway. Our team delivers expert bodywork and painting, utilizing original manufacturer parts, factory specifications, and precision assembly to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.