If you’ve ever walked up to your car and noticed a new dent or ding, you’re not alone. Whether it’s from a parking lot mishap, hailstorm, or minor collision, car dents are incredibly common and incredibly frustrating. But one of the most frequent questions drivers ask is: How much does it cost to fix a dent on a car?

The short answer? It depends. Factors like the size and depth of the dent, the location, paint damage, and the type of repair needed all influence the total cost.

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, a trusted auto body shop in Wilmington, NC, we break down everything you need to know about car dent repair costs, paintless dent repair, and how to choose the right repair option for your budget.

What Affects the Cost to Fix a Car Dent?

When it comes to car dent repair, no two situations are exactly alike. Several factors influence the complexity of the repair and ultimately the estimate you’ll receive from our qualified technicians. At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we assess each dent individually to provide the most accurate and transparent evaluation.

1. Dent Size and Severity

Larger dents or those with deep creases require more extensive work than small surface dings. The size and depth play a major role in determining how the repair will be approached, whether through paintless dent repair or more traditional auto body repair methods.

2. Type of Repair Needed

If your vehicle’s paint is intact and the dent is minor, paintless dent repair (PDR) may be a great option. For deeper dents or those that involve paint damage, a traditional repair process involving sanding, filling, and repainting may be necessary. Our technicians will recommend the most appropriate technique based on your car’s condition.

3. Dent Location

Where the dent is located on your vehicle also matters. Dents on flat panels like doors are typically easier to access, while damage near edges, body lines, or wheel wells can be more challenging to repair. Each location presents unique access and tooling considerations.

4. Paint Damage

If a dent has chipped, cracked, or otherwise affected the paint, additional steps like surface prep and repainting will be required to restore your vehicle’s finish. Our expert color-matching ensures a seamless repair that blends perfectly with the surrounding paint.

Paintless Dent Repair: A Cost-Effective Option<H2>

If your dent is shallow and hasn’t damaged the paint, paintless dent repair (PDR) is likely your best option. It’s faster, cheaper, and maintains your car’s original finish, making it a top choice for many drivers.

Looking for paintless dent repair in Wilmington, NC? At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we specialize in PDR services that save you time and money while restoring your car’s appearance like the dent never happened.

Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop in Wilmington, NC

The cost of dent repair also depends on where you go. Choosing a certified and experienced auto body repair shop ensures quality work and long-lasting results.

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we’ve been a trusted body shop in Wilmington, NC for over 33 years. From paintless dent repair to full auto collision repair, our certified technicians deliver factory-level craftsmanship at honest, competitive prices.

Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or paying out of pocket, we offer flexible options, detailed car dent repair estimates, and a commitment to excellence.

OEM vs. Aftermarket vs. Recycled Parts

If a dented part can’t be repaired and must be replaced, the part you choose affects your cost:

• OEM Parts: Factory-original, best fit and quality, but at a higher price.

• Aftermarket Parts: New and cost-effective, but may vary slightly.

• Recycled Parts: Used OEM parts that offer great value and compatibility.

We help our customers choose the right option based on safety, budget, and vehicle value.

When to Use Insurance vs. Pay Out of Pocket

Wondering how much it costs to repair a car dent through insurance? That depends on your deductible and the extent of the damage. Sometimes, paying out of pocket is more affordable than filing a claim, especially for cosmetic fixes.

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we help you decide what makes the most sense. We’re not just another paint and body shop. We’re your trusted partner in making smart, cost-effective choices.

Looking for the Best Body Shops in Wilmington, NC?

Here’s why UltraColor Collision & Paint is consistently rated among the top car paint shops:

• Certified I-CAR Gold Class Facility

• Honda ProFirst Certified within a 97-mile radius

• Over 33 years of local experience

• OEM and budget repair options

• Expert collision repair and auto painting

Whether you need minor car body repair, major auto collision repair, or an affordable paintless dent repair, we’ve got your back.

Ready for a Car Dent Repair Estimate?

Stop guessing and get a straight answer. Contact UltraColor Collision & Paint, your trusted auto body shop in Wilmington, NC, for a free dent repair estimate. We’ll inspect your vehicle and walk you through your options, so you can fix that dent with confidence.

Contact us or visit our shop for a fast and friendly consultation. We’ll get your car looking great again, without denting your wallet.

Phone: (910) 796-6838

Our Website: www.ultracolorcollisionandpaint.com

When it comes to restoring your vehicle’s appearance, precision matters, and no one delivers like UltraColor Collision & Paint. As a Platinum Level auto body paint shop in Wilmington, NC, we’ve built a reputation for flawless color matching, advanced refinishing, and impeccable craftsmanship across a wide range of vehicles. Whether you drive a car, boat, RV, or commercial truck, we combine cutting-edge technology with proven expertise to make your paint look factory-fresh, or better.

The Power of Perfect Color Matching

One of the most important elements of any paint repair is color match accuracy. Your vehicle’s color isn’t just one solid shade. It’s made up of layers, metallic flake, and subtle variations that can be difficult to duplicate. Our expert technicians use state-of-the-art digital color matching tools and premium paints like PPG DELFLEET ONE and PPG basecoat clearcoat finishes to create seamless results. Whether you need a spot repair on a car panel or a full paint restoration, our goal is simple: you should never be able to tell where the new paint begins. We are the premier auto body paint shop in Wilmington, NC. 

Our multi-stage refinishing process ensures that your paintwork is not only beautiful but also durable:

• Careful prep and sanding
• Application of precise color-matched paint
• Professional blending and feathering
• Wet sanding to eliminate imperfections
• Final buffing and polishing for a showroom shine

Affordable Auto Painting Solutions

While we’re known for premium Class A paint services, UltraColor Collision & Paint also offers budget-friendly options for customers paying out of pocket. From minor dents and scratches to plastic bumper repairs and spot painting, our team provides affordable solutions without compromising on quality. By focusing repairs only where needed and leveraging expert color blending, we help restore your car’s appearance at a fraction of the cost.

RV Painting & Repairs

Your RV is an investment, and nothing diminishes its value like dull, damaged paint or body issues. We specialize in RV painting and repair using our massive paint booth, which accommodates even the largest rigs. Our RV services include:

• Partial or complete repainting
• Body damage repair
• Roof damage and leak repair
• Full roof replacement
• Protective film removal/replacement

Thanks to our advanced color matching and extensive experience with RV-specific paints and patterns, we can match even the most complex designs, which ensures a professional, cohesive finish every time. 

Boat Painting in Wilmington, NC

We’re not just automotive experts. At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we’re also the leader in boat painting in Wilmington, NC. From touch-ups to complete outboard engine customization, we deliver professional marine refinishing built to endure harsh conditions.

Our process includes:

• Complete disassembly and prep
• Epoxy priming and refinishing of motors and brackets
• Premium PPG DELFLEET ONE marine-grade finishes
• Exact color matching for engine-to-hull integration or bold custom looks

Whether you’re a weekend cruiser or a seasoned angler, trust us to keep your vessel looking sharp and protected from the elements.

Commercial Truck Painting

We know that commercial vehicles are your business’s rolling billboard. That’s why we prioritize fleet and commercial truck painting to help you keep your fleet looking professional and turning heads on the road.

Our extra-large paint booth easily handles:

• Box trucks
• Dump trucks
• Trailers
• Vans (including Ford Transit & Sprinters)
• Commercial trucks of all types

We understand your need to minimize downtime. That’s why we focus on doing the job right the first time with expert color match, precision bodywork, and long-lasting finishes that keep your commercial trucks looking sharp and working hard.

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we believe every vehicle deserves the best, and so do you. Whether it’s a family sedan, luxury motor coach, hard-working commercial truck, or prized fishing boat, we bring your vision to life through unmatched skill and advanced color match technology.

Discover why we’re the best auto paint shop in Wilmington, NC. 

Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.

Phone: (910) 796-6838

Our Website: www.ultracolorcollisionandpaint.com

When your vehicle is involved in an accident, finding the right collision repair facility isn’t just about convenience. It’s about safety, accuracy, and peace of mind. That’s why choosing an I-CAR Gold Class repair center, like UltraColor Collision & Paint, can make all the difference.

What Does I-CAR Gold Class Mean?

The I-CAR Gold Class certification is one of the highest recognitions in the collision repair industry. It’s awarded by I-CAR (the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) to auto body shops that consistently invest in up-to-date training and education for their technicians. This ensures repairs are performed to the latest manufacturer standards using proper techniques and technologies.

But this isn’t a one-and-done recognition. Gold Class status must be maintained with ongoing annual training. This includes structural repair experts, estimators, non-structural technicians, and refinish specialists. Every Gold Class shop must meet strict training requirements year after year, proving its commitment to long-term excellence.

The Real-World Benefits of Choosing an I-CAR Gold Class Shop

So why should you care whether a shop has Gold Class certification? Here’s what it means for you and your vehicle:

Safer Repairs, Backed by Manufacturer Standards

Modern vehicles are built with advanced systems like crash sensors, ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems), crumple zones, and aluminum or high-strength steel frames. Gold Class technicians are trained to understand how all of these parts work together. That means your car gets repaired correctly, which keeps you and your passengers safe.

Quality Work That Lasts

Gold Class facilities don’t guess when it comes to collision repairs. Every step, from structural diagnostics to welding and painting, follows OEM (original equipment manufacturer) procedures. This helps maintain your car’s integrity, performance, and even its resale value.

Faster, More Efficient Turnaround

Because the technicians at UltraColor Collision & Paint are highly trained, they can diagnose and repair damage faster, without cutting corners. That means fewer delays, fewer surprises, and a smoother repair experience from start to finish.

Smoother Insurance Process

Many insurance companies prefer (or even require) that repairs be completed at I-CAR Gold Class shops. Working with a certified facility like UltraColor Collision & Paint reduces the risk of disputes and ensures the estimate and repairs meet industry standards.

A Commitment You Can Trust

Becoming a Gold Class facility isn’t easy, and keeping that status requires dedication. When you choose UltraColor Collision & Paint, you’re choosing a team that truly cares about staying at the forefront of auto repair knowledge and who puts your safety first.

Why UltraColor Collision & Paint?

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we believe training isn’t optional; it’s essential. Our I-CAR Gold Class certification reflects our ongoing commitment to:

• Restoring vehicles to pre-accident condition—or better

• Using manufacturer-approved parts and techniques

• Minimizing downtime for our customers

• Ensuring every technician is equipped to handle today’s complex vehicle technologies

When accidents happen, you shouldn’t have to worry about the quality of your repair. Trust UltraColor Collision & Paint to provide safe, precise, and dependable service, because your vehicle deserves the best.

Need expert collision repair in Wilmington, NC

Contact UltraColor Collision & Paint today to schedule an estimate or learn more about what makes our I-CAR Gold Class facility the trusted choice for local drivers.

Phone: (910) 796-6838

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Collision coverage is a type of auto insurance designed to help pay for repairs to your own vehicle if it’s damaged in a collision, regardless of who was at fault. Whether you’re involved in a crash with another car, hit a stationary object like a tree or pole, or experience a single-vehicle accident such as a rollover, collision coverage can help absorb the cost of getting your car back on the road.

However, it’s important to understand what collision coverage doesn’t include. This type of insurance won’t pay for damage to another driver’s car or any property you may have struck. It also doesn’t cover injuries, which fall under other types of coverage, like liability or personal injury protection. Think of collision coverage as protection for your vehicle only when physical contact results in damage. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

What it covers:

Collision insurance is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your own vehicle when it’s damaged in an accident involving a collision, regardless of who was at fault. Whether you’re navigating city streets, backing out of a driveway, or parked in a lot, accidents can happen, and collision coverage can be a financial safety net in those moments.

This type of coverage typically applies in situations such as:

• Crashing into another vehicle, whether you hit someone or they hit you.
• Hitting a stationary object, like a fence, signpost, tree, or light pole.
• Single-vehicle accidents, such as losing control and striking a barrier or rolling over.
• Hit-and-run incidents, particularly when your vehicle is parked and damaged by an unknown driver.

Collision insurance doesn’t just apply to moving vehicles, it can also kick in when your vehicle is struck while parked. For example, if someone sideswipes your car in a parking lot and drives off without leaving a note, you may be able to file a collision claim. Additionally, collision coverage isn’t limited to just cars. It can often be purchased for a variety of vehicle types, including:

• Motorcycles
• Recreational vehicles (RVs)
• Boats

While not legally required, collision insurance is often recommended, especially if your vehicle is newer, leased, or financed. It can significantly reduce out-of-pocket repair costs and provide peace of mind when the unexpected occurs on the road. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

What it doesn’t cover:

While collision insurance can be a crucial part of protecting your vehicle after an accident, it’s important to understand its limitations. Collision coverage is specifically designed to pay for repairs or replacement of your own vehicle when it’s damaged in a crash, but that protection stops there.

Here’s what collision insurance does not cover:

• Damage to another person’s vehicle or property. If you’re at fault in an accident and you damage someone else’s car or property (like a mailbox or fence), those costs fall under your liability insurance, not collision coverage.

• Bodily injuries. Collision insurance does not cover any medical expenses for you, your passengers, or the other party. Injuries sustained in an accident are typically handled by medical payments coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or bodily injury liability, depending on your policy and state requirements.

• Non-collision damage to your vehicle. If your car is damaged by something other than a crash, such as a hailstorm, a falling tree, a fire, or theft, collision coverage won’t help. These types of incidents are handled by comprehensive coverage, which protects against non-driving-related damage.

Some common examples of situations not covered by collision insurance include:

• A tree falling on your parked car
• Your vehicle being vandalized or stolen
• Hitting a deer or other animal
• Damage caused by flood, fire, or natural disasters
• Medical bills resulting from an accident

If you want broader protection, comprehensive coverage can be added to your policy to cover these types of events. You may also want to consider rental reimbursement coverage, which can help pay for a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop for covered repairs.

Understanding what your collision insurance doesn’t cover is just as important as knowing what it does. By pairing it with other types of coverage, you can create a more complete safety net for both you and your vehicle. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

Understanding Collision Coverage Deductibles and Limits

When purchasing collision coverage, two key elements affect how much you’ll pay out of pocket and how much your insurer will cover: your deductible and your coverage limit.

Collision Deductibles: What You’re Responsible For

A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in to cover repair or replacement costs. When you purchase collision coverage, you’ll typically be given a range of deductible options, commonly $250, $500, or $1,000, although some insurers may offer deductibles as low as $0 or as high as $2,000.

Choosing your deductible is essentially a balancing act between risk and cost:

• Higher deductible = Lower premium. You take on more financial responsibility in the event of an accident, but your monthly insurance bill will likely be lower.

• Lower deductible = Higher premium. You’ll pay more each month, but if your car is damaged, your out-of-pocket expenses will be reduced.

For example, if you select a $500 deductible and your car sustains $1,200 in damage from a covered collision, you would be responsible for the first $500, and your insurer would cover the remaining $700.

Keep in mind: Your vehicle’s value should influence your deductible choice. If your car is older and has a lower market value, it might not make sense to carry a high deductible or collision coverage at all, since the repair payout may not justify the cost. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

Coverage Limits: The Maximum Payout

Collision coverage also comes with a limit, which is the maximum amount your insurance company will pay on a claim. This limit is typically the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle at the time of the accident. ACV reflects what your car is worth on the open market, factoring in depreciation for age, mileage, wear and tear, and overall condition.

Here’s how that might play out: Let’s say your car is totaled in a collision. Your insurance company would determine the vehicle’s depreciated value, say, $8,000, and subtract your deductible (let’s assume $1,000). You would then receive a payout of $7,000. However, because this is based on depreciated value, you may find that your payout isn’t enough to purchase a comparable new vehicle without contributing your own funds. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

Choosing Wisely

Understanding how deductibles and limits work can help you make smarter decisions when selecting or updating your collision coverage. Consider factors like:

• The current market value of your vehicle
• How much can you realistically afford to pay out of pocket
• Your comfort level with financial risk
• Whether your car is financed or leased (in which case, collision coverage may be required)

By tailoring your deductible and knowing your policy’s limitations, you can strike the right balance between cost and protection, ensuring you’re prepared if an accident occurs. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

When it’s useful

Collision insurance isn’t required by law, but in many cases, it’s a smart investment, especially if you drive a newer, higher-value, or financed vehicle. If you’re leasing a car or still making payments on a loan, collision coverage is usually mandatory. Lenders and leasing companies typically require it to protect their investment in the event of an accident.

Even if your car is paid off, collision insurance can still be worth considering. Ask yourself: Could I afford to repair or replace my vehicle out of pocket if it were damaged in a crash? If the answer is no, or if the cost would significantly strain your finances, collision coverage can offer valuable peace of mind.

This type of insurance is particularly useful in situations like:

• Driving in high-traffic areas where accidents are more likely
• Living in regions with unpredictable weather or frequent road hazards
• Depending heavily on your car for work or family obligations
• Wanting to avoid the stress of unexpected out-of-pocket repair costs

Your decision ultimately comes down to the value of your vehicle, your personal risk tolerance, and your ability to absorb a financial hit if the unexpected happens. We are the go-to auto body shop in Wilmington, NC for collision coverage. 

Final Thoughts: Is Collision Coverage Right for You?

Accidents happen, even to the most cautious drivers. Collision insurance helps soften the financial blow by covering damage to your own vehicle when a crash occurs, whether it’s your fault or not. While it may not be necessary for every driver, it can be an essential layer of protection for those who rely on their vehicles every day.

Ready to explore your coverage options or have questions about your current policy? Reach out to a trusted insurance agent to review your needs and make sure you’re fully protected behind the wheel. Your peace of mind and your vehicle are worth it.

Contact our team of experts today to discuss your collision insurance claims.

Phone: (910) 796-6838

Email: sales@ultracolorcollisionandpaint.com

Our Website: www.ultracolorcollisionandpaint.com

Accidents are stressful, leaving many drivers unsure of their next steps. However, one decision that should never be delayed is seeking timely auto body repairs. Investing in prompt repairs safeguards both your vehicle and your finances, providing peace of mind that your car is roadworthy and that you’ve taken proactive measures to protect your investment.

Why Timely Collision Repairs are Essential

Delaying vehicle repairs after an accident may seem harmless, especially if the damage appears minor, but postponing collision repairs can lead to greater costs and safety risks down the road. Addressing damage immediately is not just about restoring your vehicle’s appearance, it’s essential for ensuring your vehicle remains safe to drive, preventing further deterioration, mitigating further costs, maintaining resale value, and avoiding insurance issues. 

1. Safety Risks

Ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive after a collision should be a top priority. Even seemingly minor damage can compromise critical safety features, such as sensors, cameras, airbags, and seat belts. If these systems are misaligned or malfunctioning, they may not provide the protection you rely on in the event of another accident. Additionally, structural damage to the frame or crumple zones can weaken your vehicle’s ability to absorb impact, putting you and your passengers at greater risk.

Driving a damaged vehicle also increases the likelihood of further accidents. Issues like misaligned wheels, loose parts, or mechanical failures can make your car more difficult to control, especially in emergencies. Addressing these problems immediately ensures your vehicle remains safe to drive and prevents the added expense of more extensive repairs in the future. By taking swift action, you are protecting yourself and others on the road and safeguarding your investment in your vehicle.

2. Worsening Damage

Minor damage may seem insignificant at first, but small issues can quickly escalate into costly repairs. A seemingly harmless dent or scratch can expose the metal to moisture, leading to rust and corrosion that spreads beneath the paint and weakens structural components. Similarly, a minor fender bender might appear cosmetic but could cause alignment issues that lead to uneven tire wear and reduced fuel efficiency.

Delaying repairs not only increases repair costs but also adds unnecessary stress and inconvenience. What starts as a simple fix can turn into a major problem that requires more time, effort, and money to resolve. Addressing damage early prevents these complications, which helps you avoid larger expenses and keeps your vehicle in optimal condition. Taking prompt action is the best way to protect both your car and your wallet.

3. Mitigate Future Costs

Delaying collision repairs can lead to costly mechanical and structural issues over time. Even if damage seems minor, underlying problems may develop, affecting your car’s performance and safety. A small impact can misalign the suspension system, leading to uneven tire wear and poor ride quality. If left unaddressed, this can result in expensive repairs and reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, hidden damage to the engine, transmission, or other vital components may not be immediately noticeable but can worsen over time, leading to major mechanical failures and higher repair costs.

Rust is another costly consequence of delaying repairs. Rust can compromise critical components, such as the frame, floor, and even braking systems, making repairs significantly more expensive in the long run. Addressing damage early not only prevents these issues but also protects your investment by keeping your car reliable, efficient, and safe to drive.

4. Decrease in Vehicle Resale Value

Timely repairs are essential for maintaining your car’s resale value and marketability. Potential buyers look for vehicles that have been well cared for, and visible damage, rust, or mechanical issues can instantly decrease your car’s worth. A neglected appearance suggests poor maintenance, which leads buyers to anticipate future repairs and question the vehicle’s reliability. Addressing damage promptly ensures your car remains in premium condition, making it more appealing and allowing you to command a higher resale price.

Additionally, keeping up with repairs also demonstrates responsible ownership. Detailed service records and proof of prompt maintenance can boost buyer confidence. Buyers are more likely to pay a fair price, or even a premium price, for a vehicle with a history of timely repairs. By fixing issues as they arise, you not only protect your investment but also make it easier to sell your car at a competitive price in the future.

5. Insurance and Legal Issues

Neglecting necessary car repairs can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. If damage from a collision compromises your vehicle’s safety, driving it may violate traffic laws, potentially resulting in fines or penalties. Worse, if an accident occurs due to unresolved damage, you could be held liable, facing legal and financial repercussions. Addressing repairs promptly ensures compliance with safety regulations and reduces your risk of liability.

Delaying repairs can also create complications with your insurance. Many policies require damage to be reported and repaired within a specific time frame. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in denied claims, leaving you responsible for the full cost of repairs. Additionally, if you’re involved in another accident, an insurer may argue that pre-existing damage contributed to the collision, further complicating coverage. Keeping your car in good condition protects your safety and ensures a smooth insurance process, helping you avoid costly legal and financial setbacks.

Navigating the insurance process after an accident can be overwhelming, which is why we at UltraColor Collision & Paint offer comprehensive insurance assistance to our customers. Our knowledgeable staff is well-versed in working with insurance companies, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. From filing claims to coordinating repairs, we go above and beyond to provide exceptional customer support throughout the entire process.

Don’t Put Off Costly Collision Repairs

At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we understand that addressing collision damage promptly is the best way to protect your investment and ensure your safety. Timely repairs prevent minor issues from turning into costly problems, help maintain your vehicle’s performance, and preserve its resale value. Taking immediate action also keeps your insurance claims process smooth and helps you avoid potential legal complications.

Neglecting necessary repairs can lead to escalating damage, from mechanical failures to structural weaknesses that compromise your car’s safety. By fixing issues as soon as they arise, you extend the life of your vehicle and gain peace of mind knowing it’s in top condition.

UltraColor Collision & Paint in Wilmington, NC is committed to delivering expert auto body repair services with precision and care. Our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. 

Contact our team of experts today to schedule your repair and ensure your car stays safe, reliable, and road-ready!

Phone: (910) 796-6838

Address: 210 Crowatan Rd., Castle Hayne, NC 28429

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 13 car accidents occur every single minute. Whether you have just been involved in a car accident or are new to the road, it is important to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps to care for yourself and your car in the event of a car crash.

What To Do After An Accident

Check for injuries and get to safety

The first thing to remember after a crash is to stay calm and assess yourself for any injuries. If you are injured or your passengers are injured, call 911 or tell a bystander to do it, and try not to move while help arrives.

If you and your passengers are uninjured, it is best to move to the side of the road and out of traffic.

Moving your car after an accident

According to North Carolina law, it is prohibited to have stranded vehicles on the main traveled portion of the road except when they are disabled.

If your car is still drivable and is causing a hazard to other cars on the road, put your hazard lights on and move it out of the way. Remember this may impede the police investigation later on, so if possible take pictures to document the accident before moving your car.

Otherwise, if your car is causing a hazard or is disabled, turn off your engine, and leave your car where it is with the hazard lights on.

Call 911 and wait for help

Whether the car accident was a minor fender-bender or a major collision it is important to notify the police of the crash. In North Carolina, drivers are required to contact a law enforcement agency if there is injury or death to any person or property damage that exceeds $500. 

Document the accident and exchange information

If all members of the car accident are unharmed, it is best to exchange contact information with the other driver(s).

Here is the most important information to exchange after a car accident:

• Full name, email, phone number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver’s license and license plate
• Type, color, and model of vehicle
• Location of the car accident

To assist with the police report and protect yourself, document the accident by taking the following steps.

• Identify the responding police officers with their names and badge numbers
• Get a copy of the police report. Your insurer may ask for this when filing a claim.
• Take pictures of the accident from multiple angles
• Talk to any witnesses and exchange contact information

Notify your insurance company and get roadside assistance

If possible, it is always best to call your insurance company at the scene of the accident. The representative on the phone should be able to tell you what to do and what not to do. Get the claim started as soon as possible and provide any information they may need to move things forward.

If your vehicle is disabled, check to see if your insurance company offers roadside assistance or towing. If you are a AAA member or other road club member you may be able to get towing from there. Otherwise, you can hire a towing company to bring your car to a shop. 

Choosing an auto body shop & Repairing your vehicle

Insurance companies cannot force you to choose a particular shop, but they can steer you in the right direction by providing a list of preferred mechanics. 

If you don’t have a regular auto body shop, consider the following when making a decision. 

• Compatibility with your insurance company
• Check if the mechanic is ASE certified
• Ask if the shop has been vetted and affiliated with AAA
• Consider your car brand’s auto shop since they know your car best and may not void the warranty
• Ask if they offer warranties if the initial repairs do not fix the damages
• Read online customer reviews

Understanding your car estimates

After finding several auto body shops, ask for an estimate and research the factors of collision repair costs and dent repair estimates. Once you feel confident, make a decision and choose an auto repair shop.

Getting your car repaired

After choosing an auto repair shop, ask your mechanic to discuss the process with you and get a full breakdown of the repairs your car needs. Double-check with your insurance company about any repair shop documentation or other requirements you will need to be reimbursed for repairs. 

Depending on your insurance company, you may need to show an itemized list of repairs and cost estimates. Some companies need to approve this list before any repairs are made. Make sure the insurance company and garage are on the same page. 

How long do I have to get my car repaired after an accident?

One of the most troubling aspects of a car accident can be the inconvenience of not having a car. It is important to note that in most cases, you only have to bring your car in for repairs after an accident. Many insurance claims will have a statute of limitations that states your timeframe for repairs exactly before the claim is no longer valid.

Getting around without your car

The amount of time it takes to repair your car depends on the severity of the damage, the mechanic’s schedule, and the difficulty of finding the parts. If you won’t have your car for more than a day, consider renting a car, getting a loaner from the dealership, or getting rides from a friend.

After the repairs

The mechanic will give you a call once your car is repaired and ready to be picked up. Before you drive your car home, there are a few things you should do to make sure everything is in order.

• Ask the mechanic for a walkthrough of the repairs they made
• Go through the itemized bill, make sure you understand what everything means, and ensure it resembles the estimates you were given
• Go for a test drive
• Pay for the repairs

If you were found at fault for the accident, you will need to pay your deductible before your insurance company authorized repairs. If you were not at fault, your insurance company should work with the other driver’s insurance to reimburse you for your deductible.

If the repair shop was preferred or recommended by your insurance, some companies will pay the shop directly instead of reimbursing you. Claims are typically paid within 30 days.

More than just a body shop – UltraColor Collision & Paint

When an unfortunate event occurs, we aim to make your life easier. At UltraColor Collision & Paint, we can handle all the steps, from getting your car to our collision/auto body repair shop to the paperwork for filing the insurance claim. Give us a call as soon as you need us and we will come to pick up you and your car and get to work so you can be back on the road and ready to go as quickly as possible.