Getting into a minor collision, even a simple fender bender, can be stressful and overwhelming, especially here in Columbus, Ohio. While these incidents often don’t result in serious injuries, what you do immediately afterward can protect your safety, your legal rights, and your vehicle’s value. The good news? You don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Reliable Collision Ohio, your trusted Columbus collision center, we’re here to help you every step of the way, including insurance claims support and free towing to our shop.

1. First, Prioritize Safety on the Road: After the impact, take a moment to ensure everyone is safe:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
• If your vehicle is drivable, carefully move it out of traffic to a safe spot.
• Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

Safety always comes first. If anyone is hurt or if the crash creates a danger on the roadway, call 911 immediately.

2. Document the Fender Bender: Whether the collision feels minor or more serious, gathering information at the scene protects you later:

• Exchange names, phone numbers, and insurance details with the other driver.
• Take clear photos of all vehicle damage, license plates, and the surrounding road conditions with your phone.
• If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact details it can matter later if fault is disputed.

Even small dents can mask more extensive structural damage, so documenting everything now gives you essential evidence when working with insurers or repair professionals.

3. Decide Whether to Call Law Enforcement: In Ohio, a police report isn’t always required for every fender bender, but it is required when there’s injury or significant property damage (often over $1,000).

Even for seemingly minor crashes:

• Calling the police creates an official Ohio Traffic Crash Report that can simplify your insurance claim later.
• If officers don’t come to the scene, you can file your own report with local law enforcement soon after.
• This step removes uncertainty and creates documentation your insurance company may request.

4. Notify Your Insurance Provider Promptly: Your insurance company will want to hear about the accident quickly. When you call:

• Stick to the facts, don’t admit fault or speculate.
• Provide the police report number (if available), photos you took, and contact info from the other driver.
• Prompt reporting helps protect your coverage and prevents delays in the claims process.

5. Bring Your Vehicle to Reliable Collision Ohio: Once the scene is documented and you’ve contacted your insurer, the next step is getting your vehicle assessed and repaired by the experts.

Reliable Collision Ohio, located right here in Columbus, OH, specializes in restoring vehicles after fender benders and collision damage.

Why Choose Reliable Collision Ohio?

• Expert Insurance Claims Support:  Their experienced team works directly with all major insurance companies to handle the claims process for you and can even assist in filing your claim if needed.
• Free Towing to the Shop: After your accident, Reliable Collision Ohio offers free towing services to their Columbus repair facility, easing the burden of getting your vehicle in for evaluation.
• Quality Repairs with Deductible Assistance: In many cases, they can help cover up to $1,000 of your insurance deductible, depending on your policy.
• Comprehensive Collision & Body Work: From frame and unibody repair to precision refinishing and cosmetic dent repair, their technicians restore your car to pre-accident condition.

Whether it’s a tiny bumper scrape or hidden structural damage from the impact, bringing your car to a trusted Ohio collision center like Reliable Collision Ohio ensures safety, quality, and peace of mind.

6. Keep Organized Records: After your visit and throughout the repair process:

• Save all repair estimates.
• Note every interaction with your insurance company.
• Keep copies of repair invoices and any medical records if injuries occurred.

These documents can be valuable for future reference or in rare cases where claims or disputes arise later.

A fender bender doesn’t have to derail your day, or your future. By following these steps, staying calm, and working with professionals who understand both collision repair and insurance claims, you can protect your safety, your wallet, and your vehicle’s value.

If you’ve been in a minor crash in Columbus, Ohio, trust Reliable Collision Ohio for prompt, expert service. With full insurance claim assistance and free towing available, you’re not just getting a repair, you’re getting support when you need it most.

Schedule your free estimate today and get back on the road with confidence.