Have you ever seen those screen test videos of cars going headlong into a wall with plastic humanoid dummies inside? It does look odd to be inducing car collisions, but there is an interesting fact to that.

These head-on collision tests are studied to discern a car model’s ability to protect its passenger in a crash. The point of the tests is to find the crumple zone, and that decides the criteria for how much a car can take before it’s tinfoil. This zone is a car's area designed to absorb the impact of a collision to help protect the passengers and driver from serious injury.

Without this ‘zone’, cars would be much less safe on the road. In this blog post, Gosch Collision will discuss the importance of the crumple zone and how it can help you stay safe while driving. We will also discuss auto collision repair for a battered ride fresh off the crash impound.

How Do Crumple Zones Work?

Béla Barényi, an Austrian-Hungarian engineer, employed by Daimler-Benz, today known as Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes, came up with the concept for the first crumple zone in 1959.

Barényi was interested in finding out if the vehicle's front and back could be constructed to allow it to absorb kinetic energy.

As a result, the middle of the vehicle is frequently referred to as the passenger or safety compartment. The crumple zones of physics are designed to safeguard this region.

Why Does This Matter So Much In A Crash?

The Construction Of A Crush Zone:

Initially, longitudinal components were used to define crumple zones. Instead of channeling all of the kinetic energy of a collision into the safety cell, an automobile's front and back ends were built with curved supports to induce a certain sort of physical deformation.

In a frontal auto collision, the bulk of the energy is absorbed by the crush zone in the front of the vehicle. In a rear-end collision, the crush zone at the back of the vehicle protects passengers from being thrust forward into their seat belts.

Collision Damage:

While they are an important safety feature, crush zones have one downside. Because they are designed to absorb energy, they also absorb a lot of force, which can cause extreme damage to the vehicle.

If you are in an accident, your car will likely sustain severe damage, even if the passengers escape unscathed. This is why having reliable vehicle insurance is crucial. If you are in an accident, your insurance will help with the expense of repairing your vehicle. Collision insurance is also a smart option because it will aid in covering repair costs if your automobile is damaged in an accident.

Do All Cars Have Crumple Zones?

Yes, all modern cars have crumple zones. They are required by law in many countries. Trucks, cars, bikes, and even a Beetle from the '60s will have a crush zone. So the next time your boot or trunk looks like an accordion, you better book for a session at our auto body shop.

We Can Help!

Visit Gosch Collision, serving Lakeview, CA, if your car has had one too many fender benders. Our factory-trained repair professionals are available to assist you with a wide range of auto body collision repair & body shop equipment.

Book an online appointment today!

When it comes to auto disassembly, blueprinting is an integral step. This process helps to ensure that the vehicle is adequately ready for repair and that all the parts are accounted for. Blueprinting also allows technicians to more accurately assess the damage and create a more precise repair plan.

Let's look at a few reasons why blueprinting is such a crucial step in the auto disassembly process:

1. To create an accurate inventory of parts.

All parts are included within the existing material to properly repair a vehicle. This process can be a challenge, especially if the damage is extensive. Blueprinting helps technicians accurately inventory all the features they need to replace and repair. Now they will easily lay out the entire plan ahead of them before starting the restoration process.

2. To assess the severity of the damage.

The extent of the damage dictates the repairs the technician will make. Blueprinting allows mechanics to understand the damage and plan accordingly clearly. This technique saves time and money by ensuring that only the necessary repairs are made.

3. To develop a repair plan.

Once the technician assesses the damage, they can develop a repair plan that considers all the necessary steps. This plan will help ensure that the repairpersons make repairs correctly and efficiently.

4. To create a timeline for the repairs.

The technician will make the repair timeline on the damage's severity and the parts' availability. Blueprinting helps technicians to create a realistic timeline for the repairs. Auto experts use this process for different kinds of auto disassembly, from simple maintenance to full-scale restorations.

5. To track progress during the repairs.

As the repairs are underway, technicians can use blueprinting to track their progress. Doing so helps ensure that mechanics are completing all necessary steps promptly.

6. To verify that the repairs are made correctly.

Once the repairs are complete, technicians can use blueprinting to verify they are carefully following all the restoration steps. Doing so is essential to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive. For instance. if the vehicle's brakes were severely damaged in an accident, they must work perfectly during the entire process.

7. To create a record of the repairs.

Blueprinting also helps to create a record of the repairs the technician needs to make. This documenting can be helpful if there are future issues with the vehicle. With the help of blueprinting, technicians can easily track the repairs that have been made and determine what they need to do next.

8. To estimate the cost of the repairs.

Finally, blueprinting can help technicians to estimate the cost of the repairs. Costing is essential for both insurance and budgeting purposes. You can now see why blueprinting is a crucial step to auto disassembly!

Ending Note:

At Gosch Collision, serving Meadowbrook, CA, our experienced professionals utilize state-of-the-art technology and equipment to provide our customers with the best possible service. We take pride in our collision repair service and strive to return every car to its pre-accident condition.

Contact us to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment!

Like most folks, you probably don't have much time to spend on car maintenance. That's why we've compiled this list of hacks for dealing with minor scratches and dings in your car paint.

Remember that these tips are for minor damage only. If the scratch is more than a few inches long or goes deep into the metal, it's best to bring your car to a professional. But if it's just a tiny nick or scrape, read on!

Hack 1: Duct Tape

It’s the universal fix-it-all tape for DIYers everywhere, so it comes as no surprise that it can be used to temporarily fix a scratch on car paint. Just clean the area around the scratch first, then apply the tape carefully, so it doesn't peel off any paint.

Remember that while duct tape comes in different colors and will hide the scratches well, it's just a temporary resort. You'll need professional help to resolve the problem for good.

Hack 2: Toothpaste

With its whitening properties, toothpaste is also suitable for hiding minor paint scratches on the clear coat. Again, ensure the area around the scratch is clean before applying the toothpaste. Apply a small amount with a cotton swab, and then rub it in circles until the scratch disappears.

Wipe off any excess toothpaste with a damp cloth, and voilà! The scratch should be gone. You could give it a second try if there is still a bit of scratch left, but just remember not to overdo it, or you could scratch the clear coat away.

Like duct tape, toothpaste is only a temporary solution and won't fix the underlying problem. You'll obviously need to take your vehicle to an auto body professional to get the scratch appropriately repaired.

Hack 3: Nail Polish

Featuring hundreds of colors, nail polish is excellent for covering up scratches on your car's paint job. Find a color that best matches your car's paint and apply it to the scratch with a cotton swab.

Let the nail polish dry completely before buffing it with a soft cloth. You may need to apply multiple coats to get complete coverage.

Once again, this is only a temporary measure. You'll need to take your car to Gosch Collision for a more permanent solution. We can match your car's paint color and fix the scratch so that it looks good as new.

Hack 4: Spray Paint

A more artsy solution to fixing scratches is to use spray paint. This method is perfect for owners who want to add a personal touch to their car's appearance. Clean the area around the scratch and cover it with painter's tape. Next, apply several thin coats of spray paint over the scratch. Let the paint dry completely before you attempt to remove the tape.

This method is less orthodox, but it can be fun to experiment with different colors and designs. Just be sure to use automotive paint to protect your car's finish from the elements. A clear coat and primer can also give your car's paint job an extra layer of protection.

Conclusion

Suppose you don't feel like taking on the challenge of fixing your car's scratches yourself. In that case, you can always bring it to an auto body professional. Gosch Collision proudly serves Valle Vista, CA, with reliable and affordable auto body repair services. We will work with you to restore your car to its original condition.

Schedule your appointment today!

Key Takeaways:

1. Accidents affect us psychologically and physically, so, understandably, you would be hesitant to start driving.

Suppose you've been in a car accident or collision, even a minor one. In that case, you know the feeling of panic, disorientation, and uncertainty that comes with getting back behind the wheel. Suddenly everything seems different – from how you drive to how you park. The aftermath can be just as challenging, especially if you're unsure what to do next.

But don't worry. Gosch Collision is here to help ease your worries with tips on getting back on the road. We know that Accidents affect us psychologically as well as physically, so, understandably, you would be hesitant to start driving. Well, take a breath and read on for some helpful advice.

Getting Back on The Road After an Accident

Alright, you've been in a car accident. It wasn't your fault, but now your car has a big dent, and you're feeling a little shaky. The first step is to relax & take a deep breath. Then follow these tips:

1. Get Your Car Repaired Right Away

If your motorcar has been damaged in an accident, it's important to repair it as soon as possible. Driving around with damage can worsen the problem and put you at risk for another accident. Not to mention, it's just not safe. So, schedule an appointment with your trusted car repair technician right away.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

After an accident, review your insurance policy to see what coverage you have. This will help you determine what needs to be done next. Your insurance company will presumably cover the repairs if you have comprehensive coverage. However, if you only got the liability coverage, you may have to pay for the repairs out of pocket.

3. Get A Rental Car

If your ride is in the shop for repairs, you'll need a way to get around. Many insurance companies will offer you a rental car while your car is being repaired. This can be a huge help, as it can be difficult to get around without a car. Just make sure to return the rental car when your car is fixed.

4. Drive Cautiously

Once you've repaired your car and are back on the road, driving cautiously is important. This means obeying the speed limit, avoiding distracted driving, and not driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. By driving cautiously, you can help prevent future accidents.

5. Stay Calm

Finally, it's important to stay calm after a car accident. Haggling with the aftermath of an accident can be stressful, but it's important to stay calm and take care of everything on time.

By following these simple & helpful tips, you can help make getting back on the road after an accident a little easier.

But hold up, these tips will help your car, but what about you? Your mental & emotional state after an accident is just as important. NHTSA gauges that 9,560 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the first quarter of 2022. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, make sure to follow these tips.

Tips That'll Help You Mentally

1. Inspect For Injuries & Seek Medical Attention If Necessary:

You should first check for injuries after an accident. If you or anyone involved in that accident is injured, call 911 right away. Even if the injuries seem minor, it's always better to avoid caution and get checked out by a professional.

2. Move Your Car to A Safe Location:

Once you've ensured everyone involved in the accident is okay, the next step is to move your car to a safe location. If your ride is blocking traffic or is in danger of being hit by oncoming traffic, moving it as soon as possible is important.

3. Exchange Information with The Other Driver:

After you've moved your car to a safe location and exchanged insurance and contact information with the other driver, it's important to obtain the other driver's insurance information so that you can file a claim later on.

4. Take Pictures of The Accident:

Take pictures of the car accident scene with a camera or a smartphone. Be sure to get pictures of both cars and any visible damage. These images will be helpful when filing an insurance claim for car repair.

5. Do Not Hold It In:

Many folks try to "tough it out" after an accident, but this is a mistake. If you've been involved in an accident, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you don't think you're injured, there may be internal injuries that are not immediately apparent.

6. Drive With Another Person for Some Time:

Many people are afraid to drive after an accident. If this is the case, try to find someone who can drive you around for a while. This will help you overcome your fear and return to the road in no time.

7. Defensive Driving Course Can Help:

If you're still nervous about driving after an accident, consider taking a defensive driving course. This will help you learn how to drive defensively and avoid accidents in the future. This course can also help you get a discount on your car insurance.

8. Talk To a Counselor:

If you're having trouble getting over the trauma of the accident, consider talking to a counselor. This can be incredibly helpful in getting your life back on track.

9. Take Your Time:

Taking your time and healing physically and emotionally after an accident is important. Don't force yourself to get back on the road before you're ready.

Following these tips will be back behind the wheel in no time. Also, if you're involved in a car accident in which you're at fault - here's what to do next!

Crashed Your Car in Winchester, CA? We Can Help!

Gosch Collision is a leading auto body shop serving Winchester, CA. We're here to help you through the entire process of getting your car repaired after a car accident. We offer repairs for any and every type of damage, from minor dents and scratches to major frame damage. We also offer a wide range of services, including paintless dent repair, auto glass repair, and more.

Call us today or book an appointment now!

Key Takeaways:

1. Always file a claim after an accident, regardless of the damage.

2. File a claim as soon as possible after an accident.

3. Be prepared with all the necessary documentation.

4. Follow up with your insurance company to ensure your claim is processed.

5. Keep detailed records of all communication with your insurance company.

If you're like most people, your car is one of your most prized possessions. So, when something happens to it, it's only natural to want to file an insurance claim and get the damage repaired as quickly as possible. However, the process of filing a car insurance claim can be confusing and frustrating. This guide by Gosch Collision will walk you through the steps of filing a car insurance claim. That way, you can gain reassurance knowing that you're taking the best action for yourself and your vehicle.

Auto Insurance Claim: What You Need to Know?

Alrighty, let's make sure that you know what auto insurance is and what it covers before we go any further. The US-wide average auto insurance expenditure rose 1.0% to $1,070.47 in 2019 from $1,059.41 in 2018, as per the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. So, what is it? Auto insurance is a type of insurance policy that helps to protect you financially if your car is damaged or stolen. It can also help cover the repair costs if you're at fault for an accident. Most states require drivers to have some form of auto insurance, and it's typically mandatory if you finance or lease your vehicle.

There are two basic types of auto insurance: liability coverage and collision coverage.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage helps to protect you if you're found at fault for an accident and covers the damages caused to the other driver's automobile (and sometimes injuries sustained by the other driver). It doesn't cover any harm to your own ride.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage, on the other hand, helps to pay for the repairs to your own vehicle if it's harmed in an accident, regardless of who is found at fault. It can also help to replace your vehicle if it's totaled in an accident.

Many different factors go into how much you'll pay for auto insurance, including your car's make and model, your driving history, where you live, and more.

Navigating Through Auto Insurance Claim Process: Step by Step

All right, finally, now that we have all of that out of the way, let's get into how you would actually go about filing an auto insurance claim.

1. Call 'Em Up!

The first step is to call your insurance company and let them know that you've been in an accident and will be filing a claim. They will then assign you a claims adjuster who will act as your point of contact throughout the process.

2. Gather Your Documentation

Now it's time to compile all the documentation you'll need to file your claim. This will include a police report (if one was filed), bills and estimates for repairs, and more.

3. Submit Your Claim

Once y'all have your documentation in order, you can submit your claim to your insurance company. They will then review everything and decide how much they are willing to cover.

4. Negotiate With the Insurance Company

Suppose you're not happy with the amount that the insurance company is offering to pay. In that case, you can try to negotiate with them. If you still can't come to an agreement, you may have to take them to court.

5. Get Your Car Repaired

Once you have the money from your insurance company, you can then take your car to a mechanic and get it repaired.

Steps To File a Claim for 3rd Party Damages

The process of filing a third-party insurance claim is not very different from the one we just discussed. The only disparity lies in the fact that, in this case, you will have to deal with the other person's insurance company instead of your own.

Here are the steps y'all must follow:

1. Notify The Other Person's Insurance Company

As soon as the accident takes place, make sure to get in touch with the other person's insurance company & notify them about the incident.

2. File A Claim With The Other Person's Insurance Company

After you've notified them, the next step is to file an official claim with their insurance company. Make triply sure to include all the pertinent details and documents.

3. Wait For the Other Person's Insurance Company to Investigate the Claim

Once you've filed the claim, the other person's insurance company will start investigating it.

This procedure can take a few weeks or even months, so be patient.

4. Accept or Reject the Other Person's Insurance Company's Offer

After the investigation is complete, the other person's insurance company will make you an offer. You can either accept or reject this offer.

5. Take Legal Action If Necessary

If you're not happy with the other person's insurance company's offer, you can take legal action against them. This is a long & complicated process, so make sure to speak to a lawyer before taking any steps.

The car insurance claims process can undoubtedly be confusing and frustrating, but it doesn't have to be. By following these five steps, you can absolutely ensure that your claim is handled properly and efficiently.

If you're concerned about getting over the trauma of a car accident, here's our blog to help you out.

Auto Insurance Claim Myths - Debunked!

Well, there you have it. You must follow five steps to file a successful auto insurance claim.

But before we wrap things up, let's look at some of the most common myths about auto insurance claims - and dispel them once and for all!

MYTH: Filing an Insurance Claim Will Raise My Rates

FACT: In most cases, your rates will not go up after filing a claim. Your rates may increase if you are found to be at fault for an accident that is unrelated to filing a claim.

MYTH: I Don't Need to File a Claim If the Damage Is Minor

FACT: You should always file a claim after an accident, regardless of the amount of damage. By not filing a claim, you could be violating the terms of your insurance policy.

MYTH: I Can File a Claim Any time After an Accident

FACT: You should file a claim immediately after an accident. If you wait too long, your insurance company may deny your claim.

So, there you have it! Now that you know how to go through the auto insurance claims process, you can rest assured that you're prepared in the event of an accident.

Here's How Gosch Collision Can Help!

Gosch Collision, serving Banning, CA, and the surrounding Riverside County areas, is a full-service auto body shop. We're here to help you through every auto insurance claims process step. We work with all major insurance companies and can help you get your car back on the road as quickly as possible. Contact us today or book an online appointment now.

Key takeaways:

• A car loses up to 20% in the first year alone, then a further 40% by the 4th year then zeros out by the 5th year – especially if it is a mainstream car.

• here are various ways to retain & enhance the resale value of your car.

• A crucial aspect of retaining your car’s resale value is adhering to a regular maintenance schedule.

• A dent or ding on your car’s body can affect the resale value of your car by around 10%.

• Ensure you have your car appraised before you plan on selling it as it could help you decide the feasibility of the resale.

Your car is a major purchase. In addition to the original expense, you also need to consider how to maintain the worth of your automobile. Maintaining the value of your car can be difficult, but it's not impossible. This blog post by Gosch Collision will discuss some smartest ways to retain value in your car. Follow these tips, and you'll be able to keep your car in great condition for years to come!

Tip 01: Choose Your Car Carefully

Although Chinese-made automobiles have advanced significantly in recent years, it would be naive to assume that the market has overcome the stigma associated with maintaining them. The same holds for models or manufacturers with a bad reputation for high maintenance costs or poor after-sales and parts assistance.

Additionally, you should consider the location you're exploring. Sedans with smaller displacement engines often retain their value better than those powered by 2.0-liter or larger engines. Additionally, midsize SUVs with diesel engines hold their value better than those with gasoline engines.

Spend time researching the ownership costs of different models before narrowing down your choices. Make sure to consider not just the price of the vehicle but also its depreciation rate, fuel efficiency, and insurance premiums. You can find this information on most manufacturers' websites or independent organizations such as Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book.

Tip 02: Keep Up the Entire Record of Your Service.

Maintain a record of everything done to your car, and stick to your maintenance plan. A spotless service record can greatly benefit you while negotiating because prospective buyers want to dig into your vehicle's service history.

Tip 03: Stick to Original Parts

If you have to replace a part, use an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement. OEM parts are made specifically for your car model and often cost more than aftermarket ones.

But they're also more likely to last as long as the original parts and could improve your resale value.

Tip 04: Keep the Vehicle Clean

Maintaining a clean automobile is simple, but it is sometimes easier said than done. We are all aware that maintaining a clean interior and exterior is important. However, this is sometimes challenging, given the frantic pace of modern life, especially if you have kids.

Because of this, interior or exterior that is consistently unclean can cause body corrosion, fading carpets, seats, and permanent stains. These can affect how well the automobile performs, detract from its appearance, and turn away potential buyers when it comes time to list or sell it. Ideally, you should clean your automobile thoroughly more frequently than twice a year.

Tip 05: Don't Let Little Problems Linger.

Have your car checked out and fixed as soon as you discover something isn't right. It might be anything from a strange noise from the engine compartment to a few scratches.

Remember that a minor vibration might signify a more serious problem, and scratches can turn into rust if ignored for a long time. When keeping resale value, it's advisable to err on caution.

Tip 06: Pay Attention to Where You Park

You might not think that where you park your vehicle has anything to do with how much it will be worth when you decide to sell it, but it does. Sunlight and rain can damage your car's interior and exterior, so make sure to find a covered spot or garage whenever possible.

Harsh weather conditions can also lead to problems with the engine, so it's best to avoid them when you can.

Tip 07: Keep Those Tires Shining

A gleaming set of alloy wheels has a certain pleasing quality, and prospective purchasers will agree. In addition to making the automobile appear wonderful, well-kept wheels reveal a lot about how the vehicle has been used and how frequently it has been cleaned and maintained.

Wheels endure daily abuse and can easily accumulate a layer of dangerous road grime and brake dust. This may result in discoloration, corrosion, rust, and pitting. Use a good cleaner to remove dirt from your wheels after rinsing them whenever feasible to prevent damage.

Tip 08: Use Seat Covers

Whether you have children or pets, seat covers are a great way to keep your upholstery clean and fresh.

They also protect your seats from becoming sun-faded, which can quickly diminish the resale value of your car. Select seat coverings that are simple to take off and clean so you can maintain their cleanliness.

Tip 09: Don't Smoke or Let Anyone Smoke in Your Car

When it comes time to sell a car, the smell of stale tobacco inside a car is usually a significant turnoff, regardless of whether you smoke or routinely give a lift to someone who smokes. It is clearly up to you if you persist in smoking in your car, but don't claim ignorance when a dealer gives you hundreds of dollars less for it as a trade-in when it's time to sell.

Tip 10: Drive Safely and Reasonably

Of course, you can't help getting into an accident if someone else hits you. But generally speaking, the fewer accidents you're involved in, the better off your car's value will be. Also, avoid speeding tickets and other moving violations, as they will negatively impact your car's value.

While some of these ways may seem common sense, car owners often overlook them. Adhering to these easy suggestions may keep your car's worth high and sell it for the highest price.

Are you dealing with the aftermath of an accident? Don't worry!

The Gosch Collision, serving Beaumont, CA, will get you and your car to the road in like-new condition.

We are the ideal solution to handle your auto body needs, from the smallest scrapes to the worst crash damages. Our collision repair professionals are the best-equipped and best-trained people to get your car in new condition.

Book an online appointment today!

Do you recall the last time you gave your car a good checkup? It might be time for a tune-up if you can't remember or if it's been a while since you've had anything more than an oil change.

It's easy to know when your car needs a tune-up: the engine starts making a funny noise, or you start experiencing performance issues. Although, there are also some subtle signs that your car needs maintenance, and if you're not paying attention, you may not realize anything's wrong until it's too late. Too often, such ignorance leads to road accidents!

This post will discuss some of the most common warning signs that your car is not road worthy and can go out of control. So, if you sense something isn't right with your vehicle on the road, take it to GOScH Collision today, or read on for some clues!

1. Car is Making Strange Noises

If your car is making strange noises, it may be time for a checkup. Whether you hear a squealing noise when you turn the wheel or a rattling sound when you drive over bumps, strange noises can indicate that something is wrong with your car. Bring it to a car specialist to have it checked out and repaired if necessary.

2. Engine Light is On

A Vehicle’s check engine light is one of the most prominent indicators that the car needs maintenance. It can come on for various reasons, from a loose gas cap to a more serious issue like a faulty oxygen sensor. Bring your vehicle in for repair to find and fix the problem if the light keeps turning on.

3. Car is Pulls to One Side

If your vehicle is listing to one side while you're driving, it's a sign that the alignment is off. This is a result of hitting a curb or pothole, leading to uneven tire wear and decreased fuel efficiency. Take your vehicle to a dealership for an alignment as soon as possible.

4. The Car Refuses To Start

If your car has been having trouble with the self-start lately, it could signify that the battery is going bad. It could also indicate other issues, such as a problem with the alternator. Either way, it's best to have a mechanic take a look to diagnose and fix the issue.

5. The Car is Leaking Fluid

If you see a pool of fluid under your car, it's a sign that something is leaking. This can be oil or coolant or something more severe like brake fluid or transmission fluid. Either way, you'll need to have it checked out by a mechanic to determine the source of the leak and fix it.

Get Your Car Maintained Now!

Even if you're a careful driver, there are still some telltale signs that your car needs maintenance. Luckily, our experts at GOScH Collision, serving Valle Vista, CA, can help you with everything from oil changes to major car repairs.

We know how vital it is to keep your car running smoothly, so don't hesitate to consult us when you think something might be wrong. Keep your vehicle in good shape and avoid expensive (and dangerous) problems down the road by giving us a call today!

When purchasing a used car, it's vital to be as vigilant as possible to check for any damage that a previous accident may have caused. CARFAX can help give you some peace of mind, but they don't tell the whole story. Many accidents go unreported. As a result, the car may look fine from the outside but have significant damage on the inside. This post will discuss how to look for hidden damage on a "for-sale" car. By being proactive and looking for these signs, you can save yourself from buying a lemon!

Ask the Dealership

If you're buying a used car, it's important to ask the dealership if the vehicle has been in any accidents. Many dealerships will have a CarFax report to show any accidents the car has been in. If the dealership doesn't have the resources to validate the car’s service history, then better avoid that car altogether. If you still need a particular car that has caught your fancy, enlist the services of an independent mechanic to sound the car for you.

Ask a Mechanic to Inspect

If you're not comfortable inspecting the car yourself, you can always have a mechanic inspect it. Mechanics will tell if the vehicle has been in any accidents by looking at the car's body and checking for any damage.

There are a few things mechanics will look for when inspecting a car for accident damage. They'll check the car's frame for bends or cracks, and they'll also look at the car's body for any dents or scratches.

If you can't let a mechanic see it, you can do a few things to examine the vehicle.

Check the Bumper

The bumper is the first thing to check. If the car has been in an accident, the bumper will likely be dented or scratched. Insurance companies usually reject it, so the vehicle must still have the old bumper, and if the car was in an accident, the bumper might have some signs of damage.

Look for Gaps in Panels

One of the easiest ways to spot hidden damage on a car is by looking for gaps in the panels. If a panel is out of place or doesn't quite match up with the others, the vehicle has likely been in an accident. Take a look at the doors, hood, and trunk. Are they all flush with the body of the car? If not, the vehicle has likely been in an accident.

Also, look for mismatched paint colors or faded paint. This can be a sign that the vehicle has been repainted after an accident.

Check the Windshield

Check the windshield for damage. If there are any cracks or other blemishes, it could indicate that the car has been in an accident. You can usually see how extensive the damage is by looking at it from different angles.

If you have doubts, discuss them with the dealership and see if they share any confidential information.

If you seek an auto body repair shop that will take care of you and your car, GOScH Collision, serving Meadowbrook, CA, is a perfect choice. We offer a wide range of car body repair services, from basic repairs to major restorations, and we always use the highest-quality parts and materials.

We also pride ourselves on our customer service; we'll always take the time to answer your questions and make sure you're happy with our work.

Book an appointment online!

A hit and run auto accident can be a very traumatic experience. It's necessary to understand what to do to protect yourself and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. We'll discuss what you need to do if you experience such an event.

1. Try to Get the License Plate Number

If you can get the car's license plate number that hit you, it will be much easier to track down the driver and hold them responsible for the accident. Suppose the accident has incapacitated you temporarily; best to stay in place until the paramedics arrive. If you have a dashcam, you have a better chance to nail the perpetrator.

2. Call 911 Right Away

With a collected mind, attempt to contact 911. Describe your condition & avoid panicking. You may feel dazed & disoriented. Request assistance & be cooperative so the authorities can assist you properly. Your call will also act as your alibi in the event the perpetrator attempts to take unfair legal action.

3. Seek Medical Attention

If you've been harmed in a hit and run, it's important to state for the record on a 911 call. Even if your wounds seem inconsequential, it's always best to be checked out by a doctor. But entertain the possibility of blunt force trauma and avoid moving until the paramedics arrive.

4. Inquire About Witnesses

If you couldn't get a good look at the other driver, don't worry. There's a chance that someone else saw the accident or that your dashcam recorded the event. Talk to people in the area at the time of the accident and see if anyone remembers seeing anything. Even if there were no direct witnesses, someone might have seen the other driver's car leaving the scene.

5. Notify Your Insurance Agency

Your insurance company will need to know about the hit and run as soon as possible. They may have their process for dealing with hit and runs, so you must notify them immediately. They will require you to submit the police report of the accident, so be sure to have a copy for their record.

6. Take Your Vehicle to a Reliable Garage

Once you've notified your insurance company, it's time to take your vehicle to a reliable garage. If your auto were damaged in the accident, the garage would be able to evaluate the deterioration and give you an estimation for repairs.

GOScH Collision, serving Murrieta, CA, is a full-service auto body repair shop offering superior car body repair services for years. We are proud to be the preferred choice for many major insurance companies. We offer a wide range of services, including:

• Complete auto body repair
• Auto glass replacement and repairs
• Paintless dent repair
• Complete frame repairs
• And much more!

If you have been the victim of a hit and run or any other car accident, we can help. We'll work with your insurance company to ensure that your car is restored to its pre-accident condition.

It's important to follow your insurance company's instructions for repairs. Some companies will insist you use a certain garage, while others will give you the freedom to choose your own.

Book an appointment online!