Steps To Take After A Car Accident

Being involved in an accident can be overwhelming, but following a clear set of steps will help ensure your safety, manage the situation, and make the claims process smoother. Use this detailed guide to navigate the aftermath of a collision, and know that RG Autobody is here to help with emergency towing, insurance claims, and vehicle restoration.


1. Stay Calm & Check for Injuries

Accidents can be highly stressful, but staying calm is essential for ensuring that you and others involved can handle the situation properly. Start by checking yourself, your passengers, and the occupants of the other vehicle for injuries. If anyone appears hurt, call 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance.


Tip: Even if injuries don’t seem obvious, some conditions (like whiplash) can appear later. It’s always a good idea to get checked out by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.


If you're shaken or concerned about the condition of your vehicle, RG Autobody can send emergency towing to safely transport your car to our facility while you focus on ensuring everyone’s safety.


2. Call the Police to Report the Accident

Even in minor accidents, it’s important to report the incident to the authorities. Call 911, provide the necessary details, and stay on the scene until the police arrive. The police will collect information from all parties and file a report, which will be valuable for insurance claims.


What You’ll Need to Provide:

  • If your vehicle is not driveable, you have the right to request your own Towing company- you do not have to use the one the Police suggest
  • Your driver’s license and insurance details.
  • A factual recounting of what happened.
  • The officer’s name and badge number.


Tip: Ask for a copy of the police report or how you can obtain one for your records. This report will be a key part of your insurance claim.


Once the police report is filed, RG Autobody can assist with the claims process by working with your insurance company and providing all necessary repair documentation.


3. Start the Insurance Claims Process

After gathering all the necessary information, contact your insurance company to start the claims process. This is a critical step, regardless of who is at fault, as it ensures that the repairs are covered and you can get back on the road quickly.


Here’s what you’ll typically need to provide:

  • Basic details of the accident (when, where, and how it occurred).
  • Photos of the damage.
  • A copy of the police report (if available).


Tip: You can choose any Autobody shop of your choice.  Do not let the insurance companies steer or scare you into their direct repair shops.  All work is warrantied even if you go to a non-Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop.



Once your claim is filed, a representative will be assigned to help you navigate the process, from assessing the damage to determining coverage. RG Autobody takes care of much of the heavy lifting here. We work directly with your insurance company, helping you by:

  • Filing the claim on your behalf if you haven’t done so already. We’ll handle the paperwork and communication, saving you time and stress.
  • Coordinating the inspection and estimate process. Once your claim is in process, we’ll perform a detailed assessment and work with the insurance adjuster to make sure all necessary repairs are approved.
  • Coordinate the rental vehicle company for you.
  • Restoring your vehicle. Our expert technicians will return your car to its pre-accident condition, using top-quality parts and materials to ensure that your vehicle looks and functions as good as new.


Peace of Mind with RG Autobody

We understand how overwhelming dealing with a car accident can be, and RG Autobody is here to make the process as smooth as possible. From the moment you call us, we handle every detail with care and expertise, offering:

  • 24/7 Emergency Towing: We’ll be on-site quickly to remove your vehicle from the scene and bring it to our shop.
  • Rental Car Assistance: We can set you up with a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired, ensuring you’re never left without transportation.
  • Insurance Claim Support: We work directly with your insurance company, ensuring the claims process is smooth and efficient.
  • Expert Collision Repair: Our skilled team will repair everything from minor dents to major collision damage, restoring your vehicle to its original condition.


With over 26 years of experience serving the Poughkeepsie community, RG Autobody is your trusted partner after an accident, providing exceptional service, clear communication, and the peace of mind you deserve.


We will help you get back on the road quickly and safely!

Need A Tow? Call Us Now