Easy Ways to Reduce the Risk of a Car Accident

Keen's Body Shop • March 9, 2024
two cars are damaged in a car accident on the side of the road .

According to the NHTSA, there's an average of one car accident every 60 seconds, which works out to well over 5 million accidents per year. With car wrecks being so common, it's especially important to take measures that reduce your risk of getting into one. But even if you drive defensively, every time you leave your driveway you're still at risk of getting in an accident because of somebody else's negligence. If your car is damaged in an accident, it's important that you entrust the repairs to a reputable body shop. A flawlessly restored body will keep you better protected if you get in another wreck at some point down the road. At Keen's Body Shop, our technicians are experts at meticulously repairing collision damage. Come and see us for top-quality auto body repairs in Columbus, OH.


Tips for Avoiding a Collision

Although it might sound obvious, the easiest way to prevent an accident is to simply keep your eyes on the road and two hands on the wheel. The top cause of accidents is distracted driving, with smartphone use being the main problem. However, there are other distractions that are sometimes to blame for accidents such as eating, grooming, and out-of-control children.


You can also decrease your chances of an accident by making sure that your windshield is free of blemishes that obscure your vision of the road. Windshield cracks and chips should be fixed so that your visibility is optimized. Another simple way to better see the road is to keep a good pair of polarized sunglasses in your car. At certain points in the day, the sun's glare can make it incredibly difficult to see the road. With polarized sunglasses, you'll be able to mitigate this blinding effect, which will in turn make it less likely that you get in an accident.


To minimize your risk of an accident, it's crucial that your brakes are working perfectly. Signs of brake trouble, such as squealing and grinding, should be addressed ASAP. Also, it's important to stay up to date with brake maintenance tasks like brake pad replacement and brake fluid exchanges. When your brakes are healthy and you keep a safe following distance, you'll be substantially less likely to get into a fender-bender.


Collision Repair in Columbus, OH

When you need collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, or Lancaster,contact Keen's Body Shop at 1-888-681-5336. At our local body shop, we can flawlessly repair your car's collision damage. And feel free to use our easy  online estimate tool!

4 Problems that Frame Damage Can Cause If It's Not Promptly Repaired

By Keen’s Body Shop • August 5, 2026
A vehicle's frame is its structural foundation, providing strength, stability, and support for the engine, suspension, and body panels. Even relatively minor collisions can bend or weaken the frame, and while the damage may not always be visible, it can have a significant impact on your vehicle's safety and performance. Ignoring frame damage can allow small problems to become much more serious over time. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert automotive frame repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four reasons why it's important to have frame damage professionally repaired as soon as possible. Compromised Safety in Future Accidents Your vehicle's frame is designed to absorb and distribute crash forces during a collision. When the frame is bent or weakened, it may no longer protect occupants as intended. A compromised frame can affect the performance of crumple zones and other safety systems, potentially increasing the risk of injury in another accident. Prompt frame repair helps restore your vehicle's structural integrity and improves protection. Uneven Tire Wear and Alignment Problems Frame damage often affects your vehicle's alignment. Even a slight bend can throw the suspension and steering geometry out of specification, causing the vehicle to pull to one side. Misalignment also leads to uneven tire wear, reducing tire life. Repairing the frame helps restore proper alignment and promotes more even tire wear. Poor Handling and Reduced Stability A damaged frame can negatively impact how your vehicle handles on the road. You may notice wandering, vibrations, difficulty steering, or reduced stability during cornering and braking. These handling issues can become especially dangerous during emergency maneuvers or poor weather conditions. Restoring the frame to factory specifications helps ensure predictable handling and a smoother, safer driving experience. Reduced Resale Value and Higher Repair Costs Frame damage that goes unrepaired can significantly reduce your vehicle's resale value. Potential buyers are often hesitant to purchase vehicles with unresolved structural damage. In addition, continuing to drive with a damaged frame can place extra stress on the suspension and steering, potentially leading to additional repairs. Addressing the problem early is typically far less expensive than waiting until secondary damage develops. Automotive Frame 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 to schedule an appointment!

Important Actions You Should Take Following an Auto Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • July 3, 2026
In the moments that follow a collision, knowing what steps to take can help protect your safety, your legal rights, and your vehicle. Acting quickly and carefully can also make the insurance and repair process much smoother. Here’s a look at five important actions to take after a car accident. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries The first priority after any accident is safety. Check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. If possible and safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Call Law Enforcement It’s important to contact the police after an accident, even if it appears minor. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be helpful for insurance claims and any disputes. Officers can also help document the scene and gather necessary information. Exchange Information With the Other Driver Be sure to exchange essential details with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as admitting responsibility. Stick to factual information only. Document the Accident Scene If it’s safe to do so, take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, damage, skid marks, and surrounding area. This documentation can be helpful when filing an insurance claim and can support your version of events if questions arise later. Choose a Trusted Collision Repair Shop After notifying your insurance company, it is important to select a reputable collision repair shop to assess and repair your vehicle. A trusted shop will provide a thorough inspection, accurate estimate, and high-quality repairs that restore both safety and appearance. Choosing experienced professionals helps ensure that hidden damage is properly addressed and your vehicle is returned to safe operating condition. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For expert collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster , contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Our team of experienced technicians can properly restore your vehicle. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment !
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