Assess Vehicle Damage

No one ever wants it to happen, but at some point you might be involved in an accident.
Cars, trucks, motorcycles, vans, and commercial vehicles all start, stop, and move along at various rates of speed. They are all equipped with mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and electronic systems—all opportunities for failure.

Then there are drivers. Distracted, drunk, or with just plain bad driving habits.

Accidents happen

So accidents do happen. And vehicles and people get smashed up. Our blog today deals with looking at and appraising the damage and destruction to a vehicle involved in a personal injury claim.

Moving the vehicle

In a minor “fender bender”, of course, you might have been able to drive your vehicle. However, you should not move your vehicle after an accident unless it’s a safety hazard.

Cooperate with all law enforcement and emergency personnel at the scene of the accident. Do not move the vehicle or leave the scene of an accident until the police tell you it is okay to do so. They are there to keep everyone safe—not only the people and vehicles involved in the collision, but other drivers on the road.

Where did the tow truck go?

If the extent of the damage was such that your vehicle was towed, you need to gather some basic information. Be sure to do this before the tow truck driver leaves the scene of the accident with your vehicle!

• Name and telephone number of the tow company


• Name of the driver


• Tow truck number or license plate


• Location (street address) where they are taking the car


• Company policies (fees for towing and storage, hold period, liens against vehicle)

Disposal by the tow company

Tow truck companies usually charge separate fees for towing and storage. Always ask about the cost of fees applied for each day the vehicle is held in storage. Did you know that, if payment is not made, a tow company can file a lien and sell the vehicle? The periods vary by state and local law.

If you are in the hospital or possibly waiting for a paycheck to clear the fees, be sure to communicate with the tow company or have someone do so on your behalf. Our office is happy to help. Making arrangements can avoid the loss of your vehicle.

Insurance company access

Although a body shop can prepare an estimate, at some point the insurance company will want to take a look at the vehicle to assess the damage and take photographs. Cooperate with any requests and provide access to the vehicle. If the car is in storage, authorize access for the insurance company representative. They need this information to resolve your claim.

As always, we are here to help. If you have questions or need assistance in working on your personal injury claim, call us today.