How to Handle a Hit and Run

July 13, 2023

How to Handle a Hit and Run

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a distressing and frustrating experience. When a driver flees the scene without providing their information, it can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of how to proceed. However, it's crucial to know the steps you can take to handle a hit-and-run situation effectively. So, we'll guide you through the necessary actions to take if you find yourself in a hit-and-run accident.

Safely Gather Information on the Hit and Run

The priority after a hit-and-run incident is to safely gather information. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Then, try to gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle involved in the accident. Take note of the make, model, color, and license plate number if you can catch it.

If you have a dashcam installed, read out the other vehicle’s license plate so it’s audibly recorded. This means you don’t have to worry about forgetting a license plate number or relying on low-resolution footage. Additionally, if there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information as their statements can be valuable for insurance claims or police reports.

Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle. Capture the positions of the vehicles involved and any debris on the road. This documentation will serve as evidence of the hit and run and can aid in the investigation and insurance claim process. Additionally, if there were any surveillance cameras nearby, inform the police, as their footage might have captured the incident.

Notify Your Insurer and Law Enforcement

Next, it’s imperative that you immediately contact the police to report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with all the details you gathered, including the description of the other vehicle and any witness statements. The police will create an official report of the accident, which will be important for insurance purposes and potential legal action.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the hit and run. Provide them with all the details of the incident, including the police report and any evidence you collected. They will guide you through the claims process and help assess the damage to your vehicle. Depending on your policy and the circumstances, your insurance company may cover your repair costs.

Choose a Reputable Collision Center

Following a hit-and-run, choose a reputable collision center that specializes in auto body repairs. Look for a collision center with a strong track record of quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. By selecting a reputable collision center that excels in these areas, you can ensure that your vehicle and its collision repairs are in capable hands.

1. Expertise and Experience

Ensure that the collision center has skilled, experienced technicians who can handle a wide range of repairs, including those resulting from hit-and-run accidents. Look for certifications and accreditations that validate their expertise, such as I-CAR Gold certification.

2. Range of Services

Confirm that the collision center offers comprehensive repair services, including bodywork, frame alignment, dent removal, and paint refinishing. They should have the necessary equipment and offer advanced techniques to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

3. Insurance Claims Assistance

Find a collision center that can assist you with navigating the insurance claims process. They should have experience working with insurance companies and conversely be able to provide accurate repair estimates and documentation to support your claim.

4. Warranty and Customer Satisfaction

Ask about the warranties provided by the collision center for their repairs. A reputable center will stand behind their work and offer warranties that give you peace of mind. Additionally, read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge their satisfaction levels and overall experience with the collision center.

5. Timeliness and Communication

Communication is key during the repair process. Choose a collision center that keeps you informed about the progress of your repairs, provides realistic timelines, and promptly addresses any concerns or questions you may have.

We Can Handle any Hit and Run Repair

While experiencing a hit-and-run accident can be disheartening, stay calm and take the appropriate steps. By ensuring your safety, gathering information, notifying the authorities, documenting the scene, and contacting your insurance company, you increase the chances of a successful resolution to the hit-and-run incident. Stay proactive and rely on the support of the authorities and your insurance company to navigate through the aftermath of a hit and run, ultimately helping you move forward and restore your peace of mind.

Remember, assistance from a professional auto body shop like Morrow Collision Center can help assess and repair damage to your vehicle. We enjoy restoring your vehicle's appearance and functionality, providing you with the necessary support following a hit-and-run. Contact us today to set up a consultation or drop-off servicing with our teams and see the difference!

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Why Summer Heat is Tough on Your Car’s Paint & How to Protect It

April 3, 2025

Summer is a time for road trips, beach outings, and sunny drives, but it’s also the season when your car’s paint is at the highest risk of damage. The intense heat, UV rays, and environmental contaminants can cause fading, oxidation, and deterioration of your vehicle’s exterior. Understanding the effects of summer heat on your car’s paint and taking proactive steps to protect it will help maintain its appearance and resale value. At Morrow Collision Center , we specialize in keeping your car looking its best, no matter the season. How Summer Heat Damages Your Car’s Paint UV Rays and Oxidation Just like prolonged sun exposure can harm your skin, UV rays can break down your car’s clear coat, leading to paint fading and oxidation. Over time, this exposure results in a dull and chalky appearance, making your car look older than it is. Extreme Temperatures High temperatures cause paint expansion and contraction, which can lead to cracks, peeling, and an overall weakened exterior. This damage is especially common in areas with prolonged summer heat waves. Acidic Contaminants Summer increases the presence of contaminants such as bird droppings, tree sap, and bug splatter. The heat accelerates their corrosive effects, leading to permanent stains and etching on the paint if not removed promptly. How to Protect Your Car’s Paint This Summer Regular Washing and Waxing Frequent washing removes dirt, dust, and contaminants before they can cause damage. Applying a high-quality wax or paint sealant creates a protective layer that shields your car from harmful UV rays and environmental pollutants. Park in the Shade Whenever possible, park in shaded areas, garages, or under carports to reduce direct sun exposure. Using a car cover is also a great option for long-term protection. Use Paint Protection Film or Ceramic Coating For long-lasting defense against heat and UV damage, consider applying a paint protection film or ceramic coating. These solutions provide an extra barrier against the elements, keeping your car’s paint looking pristine. Contact Morrow Collision Center to inquire more about this service. Keep Your Car Hydrated with a Spray Sealant Applying a spray sealant or detailer with UV protection between washes helps maintain a protective layer and enhances your car’s shine. Remove Contaminants Immediately Bird droppings, bug splatter, and tree sap should be cleaned off as soon as possible. Using a gentle cleaning solution and microfiber cloth prevents permanent stains and damage. The summer heat can take a serious toll on your car’s paint, but with proper care and maintenance, you can protect it from fading, oxidation, and other damage. At Morrow Collision Center , we offer professional detailing, paint protection, and repair services to keep your car looking like new. If your vehicle’s paint has suffered from the summer elements, our expert team is here to restore its beauty and shine. Contact Morrow Collision Center today to learn more about our paint protection and restoration services!

Understanding Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

March 21, 2025

Modern vehicles are smarter and safer than ever, thanks to Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Features like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking help prevent accidents—but what happens when a vehicle equipped with ADAS is involved in a collision? The repair process has changed drastically in recent years, and it’s important for vehicle owners to understand ADAS and how these safety features impact collision repairs. What is ADAS? ADAS refers to a suite of safety technologies designed to assist drivers in avoiding accidents. These systems rely on sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor surroundings and react to potential hazards. Common ADAS features include: Lane Keep Assist – Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if drifting occurs. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) – Applies brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. Blind Spot Monitoring – Alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots. Adaptive Cruise Control – Adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert – Warns drivers of approaching traffic when backing up. Why ADAS Makes Collision Repairs More Complex When a vehicle with ADAS is involved in an accident, even a minor fender bender can disrupt these sensitive systems. Unlike traditional repairs that focused mainly on structural damage, modern collision repairs require precise calibration and diagnostics to ensure these safety features function correctly. 1. Specialized Repair Procedures Repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles requires manufacturer-specific procedures to prevent system malfunctions. A simple bumper replacement or windshield repair might seem straightforward, but if a radar sensor or camera is misaligned by even a fraction of an inch, it can lead to major safety risks. 2. Calibration is Critical After repairs, ADAS components must be recalibrated to ensure they function as intended. There are two types of ADAS calibration: Static Calibration – Performed in a controlled shop environment using specialized tools and targets. Dynamic Calibration – Requires driving the vehicle in specific conditions to reset ADAS sensors properly. Failing to calibrate ADAS systems correctly can cause them to malfunction or provide false warnings, putting the driver and others at risk. 3. Increased Repair Costs Due to the advanced technology involved, ADAS repairs can be more expensive than traditional collision repairs. The need for specialized equipment, software updates, and trained technicians means that repairing an ADAS-equipped vehicle often requires more time and expertise. How Morrow Collision Center Ensures Safe ADAS Repairs At Morrow Collision Center , we stay ahead of the curve by using the latest ADAS calibration technology. When you bring your vehicle to us, you can expect: Certified Technicians who understand the complexities of ADAS repairs. Advanced Calibration Equipment to ensure sensors, cameras, and radars are perfectly aligned. Manufacturer-Approved Repair Methods to restore your vehicle’s safety features. Thorough Post-Repair Testing to confirm that your ADAS systems work as intended. Trust Morrow Collision Center for Expert ADAS Repairs If your vehicle has been in an accident, don’t trust just any repair shop to get it back on the road safely. At Morrow Collision Center, we understand the intricacies of ADAS and ensure every car repair is done right. Contact us today to schedule your auto repair and let our experts restore your vehicle’s safety systems with precision and care.