Working Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Tue 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Thu 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
Closed for lunch 12:30 - 1:30
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919-772-4727 | 2633 Benson Rd Garner, NC 27529

WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

How to Respond in a Tough Situation

Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues are handled with as little stress as possible.

  • First of all - stay calm.
  • If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical help.
  • Make sure you call the police.
  • Don't publicly make any statements where you either accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
  • Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record. Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
  • Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
  • In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and that they get the same information from you.
  • Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses as well.
  • Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of what could have caused the accident.
  • Write down pertinent details such as where the accident took place, what the weather was like, etc.
  • Once the information's exchanged, report the accident to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your fault.
  • Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your coverage and payments.
  • Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign anything if you don't understand it.
  • When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right to choose the shop to do your repairs.
  • Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as they are more expensive.

    You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle, and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide for yourself.
  • An insurance company also has the right to inspect your vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require you to visit one of their own claim centers.
  • And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident, but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident once in a while - it's just something that happens.

Remember - Drive Safely!

Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at 919-772-4727 or make an appointment online!

What Our Customers Are Saying

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These guys are the best they do what they promise and they will work with you.

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This company is very customer service oriented. They believe that they work for the customer and not the insurance company. I would recommend them for anyone who needs body work done.

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I have used Larry Estes body shop four times over the last 3 years. I have always found them to be very good in regards to the work on my cars. They are also very professional. They have fixed a Buick, Lexus, BMW and recently a Mini. All come out looking and driving great! It is no fun to wreck a car, but I am glad these folks are around to fix them!

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Wow! My Ford Expedition looks brand new! I have no idea what Estes Body Shop did to make the vehicle new again. I took it in to get the rear bumper repaired and repainted. I was not expecting the entire vehicle to be so sparkling-new. I would love to know how they washed it. The job was finished within the time frame they promised and I highly recommend them to anyone who needs auto body work!

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I took my son's 2000 corvette to have my passenger side painted after an accident. Larry and the whole staff treated me great answered all of are questions and the car came out perfect. If you need your car repaired I recommend Larry Estes body shop in Garner NC.

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Great work on our vehicle and staff was very helpful.

  • BBB Accredited Business
  • I-CAR
  • Autobody Alliance
  • NABC (National Auto Body Council)
  • Call Us For Service: 919-772-4727