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You’ve just been in a car accident, and you need auto glass repairs. But before that, there are some things you can do to make the process go more smoothly. It’s important to remain calm and patient while waiting for your car to be fixed. The more stressful you are, the more difficult the entire process will be. So, to make things a little bit easier on yourself, follow these helpful tips:
1. Ensure You are Safe and Uninjured
If you are in an accident or your car is hit by a projectile, make sure you and your passengers are safe and uninjured before doing anything else. Once everyone is accounted for and safe, you can then start to take care of the car. If anyone in the vehicle has an injury, call 911 immediately or seek help from the closest emergency department.
2. Clean up the Broken Glass
Any broken glass needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible. Shards of glass can cause injury, so make sure to use a broom and dustpan to clean everything up. If there is any blood or other fluids on the glass, use a disinfectant to clean it. Don’t forget to clean the inside and outside of the car. This will not only keep you safe, but it will also help to prevent the car from being damaged any further.
3. Cover and Seal the Window
If the window is broken, you need to cover and seal it as soon as possible. This will help to keep out the elements and prevent any more damage from happening to the car. There are a few ways to do this:
-You can use a tarp or blanket to cover the window. Make sure it is sealed tightly against the window so that no water or debris can get in.
-Another option is to use duct tape or plastic wrap to seal the window. Again, make sure it is sealed tightly so that no water or debris can get in.
The most important thing is to keep the window covered and sealed until the repairs can be made.
4. Call Your Insurance Company
If you are insured, you will need to call your insurance company and report the accident. Be sure to have your insurance policy number and contact information ready. The sooner you call the insurance company, the sooner they can start the process of filing a claim. While this process is going on, you may need to rent a car or find other transportation.
5. Take Photos
If possible, take photos of the accident scene and damage to your car. This will help the insurance company to assess the damage and file a claim. It can also be helpful to have photos for your own records. The most crucial photos are of the damage to your car, but you may also want to take photos of the accident scene and any injuries. If you are seeking legal advice, be sure to confirm with your lawyer what types of photos are required.
6. Secure a Rental Vehicle
If you need to rent a car while your car is being repaired, be sure to do so as soon as possible. Waiting too long can result in not being able to find a rental car in the right size or at the right price. There are a few ways to go about renting a car:
-You can go through the insurance company. Most insurance companies have partnerships with certain rental car companies. This will allow you to rent a car at a discounted price.
-Another option is to rent a car from a local rental agency. This can be more expensive, but you have more flexibility with the type of car you can rent.
-If you are traveling, you may want to consider renting a car from a rental company in the city where you are traveling. This can be more expensive, but it will be easier than trying to find a rental car in a foreign city.
7. Find a Reputable Repair Shop
When looking for a repair shop, it is important to choose one that is reputable and has experience repairing auto glass. Be sure to get recommendations from friends or family or look for online reviews. You don’t want to take chances with your safety by choosing a shady repair shop. A reputable repair shop will:
-Use only high-quality glass products
-Have a team of licensed auto glass technicians
-Offer a warranty on their work
-Be able to work with your insurance company
Choosing the right repair shop is crucial for getting your car back to its pre-accident condition.
8. Avoid DIY Kits
It is important to remember that repairing auto glass is a job for a professional. Trying to fix the window yourself with a DIY kit can be dangerous and may not be as effective as hiring a professional. Not only could you injure yourself, but you may also end up doing more damage to the car. It is best to leave the repairs to the experts.
Using a DIY kit can result in:
-Incorrect installation
-Incorrect sizing
-Poor bonding
-Leaking and moisture problems
-Damaged window seals
-Reduced safety
-Broken glass everywhere
Be Sure to Schedule Repairs Promptly
If you have been in an accident and need to have your auto glass repaired, be sure to schedule repairs as soon as possible. Waiting too long can result in not finding a repair shop that can fit you into their schedule, or the repair shop may not have the correct type of glass in stock. It is also important to remember that most insurance companies have time limits for filing claims. If you wait too long, you may miss out on your chance to receive financial compensation for the damage done to your car.
When it comes to repairing auto glass, it is best to leave it to the professionals. They have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right, ensuring your safety and the safety of your car. Follow these helpful tips, and you will be on your way to getting your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition!