WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE AN ACCIDENT
We are covering frequently asked questions with various topics here on the blog. This month we are giving you the answers to what you should know before an accident.
I HAD A WRECK AND MY CAR IS INOPERABLE, WHERE DOES IT GO WHEN THE SHOP ISN’T OPEN?
Wrecks are already not planned, but even more, they can happen on the weekend or at night. If your vehicle is unable to be driven, you will need to have it towed. The reputable towing service will tow your vehicle to their storage lot. Once you contact us, we will then send our towing service to pick up your auto and bring it to the shop during operating hours. It is important you either have a tow company you trust or use the company the police suggest at the time of the accident. Do not agree to towing operators who just show up on the scene. And when calling around, establish tow and storage rates with any other fees. NOW is the time to ask friends for their recommendations for a towing company and keep the contact information handy in your wallet.
HOW BAD DOES A WRECK HAVE TO BE TO TOTAL A CAR?
It depends on a lot of factors. Insurance companies vary from state to state with their evaluation procedures and with their percentages set for loss. As the best example, we will use the state of Oklahoma. If your insurance provider calculates the repair costs to equal more than 60% of its value, chances are they will ‘total’ the vehicle. The national average is around 70-78%. Consult with your provider about your policy and their practice. Also, please remember not all damage may be seen. We have seen animals, that run out on the road unexpectedly, cause enough damage to ‘total’ vehicles.
WILL MY WARRANTY BE VOID WITH MY NEW CAR AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
A warranty is only voided when a vehicle has been declared a totaled loss and given a salvage title.
SHOULD I FILE A CLAIM OR PAY FOR IT MYSELF?
There are many things to be considered before deciding. First, is this a one auto accident or more? If there are more vehicles than your own and you are at fault, it is always best to make a claim. This will cover you in the event of injury and damages that others have suffered. If it is only your vehicle, however, depending on the cost of damage vs the cost of deductible, a small ding might be better coming from your pocket and saving on future premium hikes. We will be happy to discuss your options when you bring it in for an estimate!
WHEN IS MY DEDUCTIBLE DUE?
The deductible is due to our shop usually once the damage is fixed and the vehicle is ready for pick up.
If the unfortunate does happen, we are to help!

When your vehicle needs repairs, the choice between a small, independent collision shop and a large corporate chain can be challenging. But at Freeman’s Collision Center, we believe that local businesses like ours offer something corporate shops simply can’t: personalized care, exceptional craftsmanship, and a commitment to the community.

Have you ever been told by an insurance adjuster or a direct repair program (DRP) shop that your car repair won't be guaranteed or have a warranty unless you use their specific shop? This is a common tactic used to steer customers towards certain repair facilities, but it's simply not true. In Oklahoma, as in many other states, you have the right to choose any auto repair shop you want.

Oh the stress of studying for your driver’s license! It may have even been decades ago, but we all still remember the many rules we had to learn in order to obtain a license. Unfortunately as the days and years pass, we forget many of the laws we were required to know and observe as drivers. And each day, many drivers break these laws. Because the rules are in place for safety, it is important for a refresher course. Avoid needless collisions and tickets by relearning the driving laws you may have forgotten.

We drive to work, we drive for fun, and we drive to vacation destinations. No matter the reason for our driving, the most important thing is to be safe. While our vehicles are still evolving with the latest safety features, there are gadgets and accessories that can assist with that safety. Whether it’s for beloved family or the person who has everything, these are 5 gifts that can give that driver some peace of mind.

Road Rage is at an all-time high with congested commutes and full schedules. No matter if it’s the highway, city street, or rural 4-way stop, there are everyday situations that are frustrating drivers. Even the drive-thru can present a disagreement with driving. So, what is happening? Even if there are more vehicles on the road, there are written laws and unwritten courtesies that we should be observing. However, many times there are two sides to a story…