Car accidents are stressful enough and dealing with insurance shouldn’t make it worse. At Harrisonburg Collision Center, we talk with drivers every day who feel overwhelmed by the claims process. The good news? Once you know a few key steps and your rights, it’s much easier to handle. Here’s our expert advice on how to keep the process smooth and stress-free.

1. Call Your Insurance Quickly, But Stay Calm

After making sure everyone is safe, you’ll want to contact your insurance company to report the accident. Stick to the facts: where it happened, who was involved, and what damage you see. Don’t feel pressured to admit fault on the spot. That’s for the adjusters and, in some cases, the police report to sort out.

2. Understand Your Coverage

Not all policies are created equal. “Collision” coverage usually applies when your car is damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. “Comprehensive” is for things like storm damage, theft, or hitting a deer. And liability? That covers damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle, not your own. Knowing which part of your policy applies helps avoid surprises.

3. Know Your Rights

You don’t have to use the shop your insurance company suggests. They may have “preferred shops,” but legally, the choice is always yours. That means you can bring your car to a certified, trusted repair center, like Harrisonburg Collision Center, and still have your claim covered.

4. Let the Experts Handle the Details

One of the biggest advantages of working with a certified collision repair center is that we deal with insurance companies every single day. We know the paperwork, the codes, and how to advocate for the right repairs. That way, you don’t get stuck playing middleman—and your car gets fixed the right way, the first time.

Accidents are never fun, but the insurance process doesn’t have to add to your stress. By knowing your coverage, understanding your rights, and partnering with a shop that has your back, you can get back on the road with confidence. At Harrisonburg Collision Center, we’ve built our reputation on taking care of both cars and people. If you’ve been in a wreck and don’t know where to start, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Plus, we’re growing! Keep a look out for the giant red building, 2811 South Main Street, as Harrisonburg Collision Center is expanding to better serve our community. Stay tuned for updates, available jobs, and more.