After an Accident: Your Insurance Claim, Step by Step
A collision is stressful enough without guessing how the claim works. Here's the process in plain language — and what New York law says about choosing where your vehicle gets repaired.
What to do after an accident
Get safe, then document
Once everyone is safe, photograph the damage, the scene, and the other vehicle's plate and insurance card if another driver is involved. Photos taken at the scene make the claim and the estimate easier.
Report the claim
Call your insurance company or use their app to open a claim. Note your claim number and the adjuster's contact information — the shop will ask for both.
Get a written estimate
Bring the vehicle in, or send us photos through the estimate form. You'll get a written estimate before any work is authorized, so you and your insurer know what the repair involves.
Repair and pickup
Once the repair is approved, we walk you through what the work covers before it begins and let you know when your vehicle is ready.
Your rights in New York
Insurance companies may recommend shops from their own networks. It's worth knowing what the law actually says:
You choose the repair shop. New York Insurance Law § 2610 says an insurer cannot require that repairs be made at a particular shop. A recommendation is optional — the decision is yours.
You're entitled to a written estimate, on request, before authorizing repair work.
You can ask any shop to explain the repair plan — what gets repaired, what gets replaced, and why.
Where we fit in
We provide the written estimates, appraisals, and damage documentation the claim process needs, and we explain the repair plan in plain language before work begins. If you're unsure what your situation calls for, call us and we'll help you figure out the next step.
This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Your policy's terms control your specific claim.
Start with a written estimate
Send your vehicle details and photos, or call the shop — we'll follow up with next steps.