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!

Common Sources of Vehicle Scratches and How to Prevent Them

By Keen’s Body Shop • May 1, 2026
Keeping your vehicle’s exterior in pristine condition can be a challenge, especially with everyday exposure to potential hazards. Even small scratches can dull your car’s appearance and lead to more serious paint damage over time if left unaddressed. While some wear and tear is inevitable, many scratches are caused by common, preventable situations. But if your car does get scratched, you’ll want to get the repairs done ASAP so that rust doesn’t get a chance to set in. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here’s a look at some of the common causes of car scratches and tips for preventing them. Improper Washing Techniques Believe it or not, washing your car incorrectly is one of the leading causes of surface scratches. Using dirty sponges, stiff brushes, or old rags can drag grit across the paint, leaving behind fine swirl marks. To prevent this, use a clean microfiber wash mitt and follow the two-bucket method—one bucket for soapy water and another for rinsing your mitt. Dry your car with a soft microfiber towel to avoid scratching during the drying process. Parking Lot Dings Busy parking lots are full of potential hazards, from shopping carts to car doors swinging open too wide. Tight spaces increase the likelihood of accidental contact that can scratch or chip your paint. To reduce the risk, park farther away from high-traffic areas and choose spots with more room when possible. Being mindful of your surroundings can go a long way in preventing unnecessary damage. Keys, Jewelry, and Everyday Items It’s easy to accidentally scratch your car with items you carry every day. Keys, rings, bags, and even belt buckles can leave marks when brushing up against the vehicle. To avoid this, be conscious of how you approach your car. Avoiding leaning against the vehicle can help minimize the risk of damage. Environmental Debris and Weather Outdoor elements such as tree branches and kicked-up gravel can contribute to scratches. Even something as simple as brushing against a low-hanging branch can leave a noticeable mark. Whenever possible, park in a garage or covered area. If outdoor parking is your only option, try to avoid parking under trees or in areas prone to heavy debris. Car Scratch Repair in Columbus, OH For expert auto body 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 !

4 Reasons to Always Fix Automotive Hail Damage Right Away

By Keen’s Body Shop • April 2, 2026
Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your vehicle’s exterior. Although small dents and dings may seem relatively harmless at first, ignoring hail damage can lead to bigger problems over time. Addressing the damage promptly helps preserve your vehicle’s appearance, value, and structural integrity. At Keen’s Body Shop , we provide expert automotive hail damage repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four important reasons to repair car hail damage as soon as possible. Prevents Rust and Corrosion Hail impacts can chip or crack your vehicle’s paint, exposing the metal underneath. Once the protective paint layer is compromised, moisture can reach the exposed metal and begin the rusting process. Over time, this can lead to corrosion that spreads beyond the original dent. Fixing hail damage quickly helps restore the protective barrier and prevents long-term damage caused by rust. Maintains Your Vehicle’s Value Even small dents can significantly reduce your vehicle’s resale value. Potential buyers often view visible damage as a sign of poor maintenance, even if the vehicle is otherwise in good condition. By repairing hail damage right away, you help preserve your car’s appearance and maintain its market value. This can make a big difference if you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle in the future. Prevents Further Damage What starts as minor hail damage can worsen over time. Exposure to the elements can cause paint damage to spread. Also, weakened areas of the vehicle’s exterior may be more susceptible to future impacts. Prompt repairs help stabilize the affected areas and prevent the damage from becoming more extensive. Improves Appearance and Driver Confidence Your vehicle’s appearance plays a big role in how you feel about driving it. Hail dents and chipped paint can make even a newer car look worn. Repairing the damage restores your vehicle’s polished look and can boost your confidence on the road. A well-maintained exterior also reflects positively on your overall vehicle care. Automotive Hail Damage Repair in Columbus, OH For expert auto body 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 make an appointment!
Show More >