What should you do at an accident scene?
What are your Motorist Rights for collision repair?

Check your accident knowledge base (in case you have to use it).

What should I do if I get in an accident?

Accident scenes can be very shocking, especially right after the impact occurs. Try to remain calm and do the following:

• Stop your vehicle. If you drive away, you could be charged with a “hit and run.”
• If you are blocking traffic in a dangerous place, pull off to the side of the road or into a well-lit parking lot.
• Contact the authorities. Try to assess the scene if anyone else is hurt. Otherwise, wait for the ambulance and/or police.
• Turn off your engine and wait for assistance.
• Be courteous to all parties.
• Exchange name, phone, address and insurance carrier/agent information. Try to get contact information from passengers and witnesses.
• If you suspect the other driver may be drunk, do not confront him or her. Tell the police and let them handle the situation.
• Make sure you are as calm as possible before making any statements or talking to the police.
• Take photos before you leave the scene.
• Avoid making statements about responsibility to the other driver, witnesses, police or anyone else. Do not state that you are at fault, even if you think you may have caused the accident.
• Contact your insurance company once you are calm and have gathered pertinent information. They will likely interview you on the spot and request photos.
• Acquire a copy of the police report.
• Call M&T Auto Body for assistance with repairs to your vehicle.

What should I do after an accident?

Here are some tips for dealing with the aftermath of an accident.

• Do not drive your car if it is unsafe. If you can safely drive your vehicle, bring it to M&T Auto Body directly, or as soon as possible.
• If you cannot operate your car, truck or SUV, call Chidsey’s Towing 330-225-4780 to have your vehicle towed to M&T Auto Body.
• Remember that you have the right to go to the repair shop of your choice. By law, your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance cannot require you to go to a particular repair shop.
• Differences in repair estimates are common. It is your vehicle, you deserve the highest quality repairs. Read the fine print and consider carefully before you accept the lowest repair estimate.

What if the insurance company tells me I have to get three estimates and meet their adjuster at another facility?

Tell them NO, you are dropping your car off at the shop of your choice to get repaired and the adjuster can inspect your car there with the body shop manager. It is your car and you have the right to get your car fixed where you want. M&T Auto Body works for you, not the insurance company.

Will M&T Auto Body coordinate with the insurance company to work out details?

Absolutely. M&T Auto Body takes care of the estimate and notifies you when the vehicle can go in for service. Most times, the insurance company will pay us directly so you don’t have to worry about payment. You will likely have to pay a deductible depending on your insurance. Feel free to contact M&T Auto Body any time to learn more about the process.

I need my car ASAP. How soon can M&T Auto Body get me back on the road?

Once we write your estimate, it is approved and you authorize us to begin work, M&T Auto Body will set up a timeline to let you know when your vehicle will be ready. If you need to get back on the road before then, M&T Auto Body will arrange a rental car for you, and in many cases can communicate with your insurance company to handle the payment.

Does M&T Auto Body charge for estimates?

No. M&T Auto Body provides free estimates as a courtesy to our customers.

Do I need to make an appointment with M&T Auto Body for an estimate?

Estimates are written during normal shop hours.
While an appointment is not required, it is a good idea to check ahead. Arrangements can be made for an estimate to be performed at your residence or place of employment if necessary.

What kind of warranties does M&T Auto Body offer?

M&T Auto Body guarantees workmanship on all auto body collision repairs and painting, excluding rust and restoration repairs.