5 Actions to Take Following a Car Accident

Keen’s Body Shop • March 5, 2025
A white car is being towed by a silver truck.

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what steps to take can help you navigate the process as successfully as possible. Here are five important steps to follow after a car accident.


Check for Injuries/Take Safety Precautions

The first priority after an accident is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If the accident is minor and your vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe location, such as the side of the road, to prevent further hazards. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation.


Call the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to contact law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be valuable when filing an insurance claim. When officers arrive, provide accurate information about what happened. The police will document the scene, gather witness statements, and provide you with a report number that you can reference later.


Gather Information and Take Photos

Collecting information at the scene is crucial for handling insurance claims and potential legal issues. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver, including their name, phone number, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details as well. Also, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These images can serve as valuable evidence if there are disputes about the accident.


Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the crash, including the police report number, photos, and any witness statements. Be honest about what happened, but avoid speculating about fault. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and explain your coverage.


Choose an Expert Body Shop

While your insurance agent might suggest you go to a specific shop, you get to decide where to go for the repairs. Be sure to choose a trustworthy shop that knows how to expertly repair collision damage.


Collision Repair in Columbus, OH

For expert collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Why You Should Still Get a Professional Inspection After a Minor Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • October 1, 2025
It’s easy to shrug off a small fender-bender or low-speed collision and assume that everything is fine with your vehicle. If the car still runs and the damage looks minimal, scheduling a professional inspection might not seem necessary. However, even minor accidents can cause hidden damage that isn’t immediately obvious but can lead to bigger issues down the road. That’s why it’s always smart to have an experienced professional take a closer look. Here are four important reasons to get an inspection after a minor accident. Hidden Structural Damage Can Go Undetected A small bump may not show obvious signs of damage, but it can still affect your vehicle’s structural integrity. Even subtle frame misalignments can weaken your car’s ability to protect you in future accidents. Professional inspections use precise equipment to detect these issues, helping to ensure that your car remains safe and structurally sound. Mechanical Issues May Be Overlooked A minor collision can impact more than just the exterior of your vehicle. Components like the suspension and steering system can suffer damage that isn’t visible at first glance. Left unchecked, these problems can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. An inspection helps ensure that all systems are functioning properly. Safety Features Might Not Work as Intended Modern vehicles rely on advanced safety systems like airbags, sensors, and cameras. Even a low-speed accident can disrupt these systems, meaning they may not deploy or function correctly in another emergency. A professional inspection verifies that these critical safety features are still operational and reliable. Ignoring Small Problems Can Lead to Bigger Costs What seems like a minor dent or scratch can sometimes mask underlying damage that grows worse over time. For example, a small crack in a radiator or a bent suspension component might lead to major repairs later. Getting an inspection early helps catch these problems before they escalate into more expensive fixes. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Why It’s Important to Professionally Address Car Rust Immediately

By Keen’s Body Shop • September 4, 2025
Rust is one of the most damaging problems a vehicle can face, and once it begins, it doesn’t stop on its own. Many drivers brush off small rust spots as cosmetic issues, but rust can spread quickly, potentially compromising the safety, performance, and value of your car. Addressing rust with the help of a professional as soon as it appears is the best way to protect your investment. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car rust repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four important reasons to deal with car rust right away. Rust Can Spread Quickly Rust doesn’t stay confined to one small spot. Once the paint and protective coating are compromised, rust spreads across metal surfaces. A tiny blemish on the fender can turn into widespread corrosion. The sooner you have a professional treat the problem, the less extensive the damage will be. Rust Weakens Structural Integrity Beyond appearances, rust can eat through critical parts of your car’s frame and body. This weakens the overall structure and makes the vehicle less safe in an accident. Rust in areas such as the frame components can severely compromise strength. A professional repair ensures that the issue is resolved before it becomes a worsening safety hazard. Preserve Resale Value Even small amounts of rust can hurt your car’s resale or trade-in value. Buyers often see rust as a sign that the vehicle hasn’t been properly maintained or may require costly repairs in the future. By taking care of rust right away, you preserve your car’s appearance and protect its long-term value. Pride of Ownership Rust is ugly and can make an otherwise well-maintained car look old and neglected. Professional rust repair restores your car’s smooth, polished appearance and prevents the damage from worsening. Taking care of rust quickly helps ensure your vehicle looks as good as it runs, which enhances pride of ownership. Automotive Rust Repair in Columbus, OH For auto body repair in Columbus , Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Our technicians can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
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