After a car accident, you need to be in control of where you get your car fixed. Insurance companies may opt to choose a lower priced mechanic who uses generic parts. However, you have the right to reject car accident repairs that aren’t up to your standards. Here are some tips to remember about car accident repairs:

• You do not have to get your car fixed at the dealership. But it is a good idea to have your car assessed by the dealership or your favorite mechanic to determine what needs to be repaired. Even in what looks like a straight-forward case, your car may have suffered unseen damages.

• Dealerships have a high-overhead, so their prices are almost always higher. However, they may offer a warranty or grace period, that your local mechanic may not.

• Consult your state insurance department if you’re having problems reaching a deal that you think is fair. State law varies on a variety of subjects in the car accident recovery process, so it’s important to have your questions answered. For example, in some states you have the right to determine where your car is fixed.

• Get three quotes from independent auto repair shops. Compare their prices, their standards of service, and how long it will take to repair your vehicle. Remember, the cheapest quote isn’t always necessarily the best. Sometimes you get what you pay for!

• Ask if you will be receiving new or used parts during the repairs. Used parts are always cheaper, but will not last as long as a new part. In some cases, used parts are just as good as new.

Call 1-866-Pain-911. The expert case managers at Pain 911 can help you find the best mechanic for your specific situation and start the accident recovery process.

What to do after a car accident.

While getting in an accident can be a traumatic experience, keeping calm and taking these five steps can make the car accident recovery process work to your benefit. Here’s what to do after a car accident:

• Call emergency personnel. Even if it’s a fender-bender with no apparent injuries, having a police report will be necessary for making insurance claims and handling any legal matters. Be certain to give police an accurate, thorough description of the accident. Remember to only discuss the crash with police and not with other drivers or witnesses.

• Get the name, phone number and VIN (vehicle information numbers) of the other driver involved. While getting the make and model of a car can be useful, most insurance companies keep VINs on file.

• Call your insurance company. Most companies have an 800-number listed on your insurance card.

• Take a photograph of the damages. Be it with a disposable camera in your glove compartment, cell phone camera, or even just written notations on a scratch pad. After an accident, your nerves are shot. But before you leave the scene, be certain to note the extent of damage to both cars. This will protect you if the other party makes unreasonable claims.

Call 1-866-Pain-911. This will get you started with a professional case manager who can help you with everything from obtaining legal counsel to finding the right auto mechanic for the job. The best time to start the car accident recovery process is immediately after an accident. Pain911.com knows what to do after a car accident.