Frequently Asked Questions

We know that being involved in an accident can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to go through it alone. At A & R Auto Body, we’re here to guide you every step of the way and help take the pressure off.

Our experienced team is committed to making the repair process as smooth and stress-free as possible. To help you feel more informed and confident, we've put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers.

Take a look below — and if you still have questions, we're always just a phone call or message away.

What should I do after I’ve been in a car accident?

First things first — call the police. It’s important that an officer comes to the scene to document the incident properly. Avoid moving any of the vehicles involved unless they’re creating a safety hazard. Leaving them in place can help the officer accurately determine fault.

If your vehicle isn’t drivable, let the police know which towing company you’d prefer to use, or have them assign one. Whenever possible, have your vehicle towed directly to a repair facility — this can help you avoid additional storage fees or the cost of a second tow.

Before you leave the scene, be sure to obtain a copy of the accident report. This document includes key information you’ll need to file an insurance claim.

The insurance company wants me to send them pictures of my damaged vehicle with my smartphone. Is this a good idea?

Not always.

While taking and sending photos may seem quick and convenient, it often leads to missed or underestimated damage. A smartphone picture can’t replace the trained eye of a collision repair expert. Many types of damage — especially structural or hidden issues — simply don’t show up in photos.

The best approach is to have your vehicle inspected in person by a qualified collision specialist. Insurance companies may push for photo estimates to save time and money, but this can result in an incomplete or unfair assessment.

Don’t worry — we’re here to help. If the insurance company pushes back, we can assist you in navigating the process and ensuring your vehicle gets the thorough inspection (and proper repairs) it deserves.

 Do I have to take my vehicle to the shop the insurance company is suggesting?

Absolutely not — it’s your car, and the choice is yours.

Insurance companies may recommend a Direct Repair Program (DRP) shop, also known as a "preferred" or "in-network" repair facility. These shops have formal agreements with the insurer and must follow the insurance company’s rules on labor rates, repair methods, and parts usage.

While this may help the insurance company keep costs down, it can sometimes come at the expense of quality. DRP shops may be pressured to use lower-cost parts or speed through repairs — decisions that can compromise the safety, performance, and value of your vehicle.

You are under no obligation to use a DRP shop. By law, you have the right to choose the repair facility you trust. We always recommend asking people you know — friends, family, or coworkers — for honest recommendations. Real customer experiences are far more valuable than an insurance referral.

At A & R Auto Body, we work for you, not the insurance company. Your safety, satisfaction, and peace of mind are our top priorities.

Who is responsible for the warranty on the repairs?

The repair facility — not the insurance company — is responsible for the warranty.

While an insurance company may suggest that they “guarantee the work,” the reality is that they’re only responsible for paying the bill. It’s the repair shop’s job to perform the work correctly and to back it up.

At A & R Auto Body, we stand behind our repairs with a lifetime warranty for as long as you own your vehicle. That means you can have peace of mind knowing the job was done right — and that we’re here if you ever need us again.