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One moment, you’re cruising down the road, music playing softly in the background, thinking about what’s for dinner. The next—bang!—the jolt of metal colliding, the screech of tires, the unmistakable crunch that makes your heart stop. A car accident is something no one plans for, yet it can happen in the blink of an eye. The question is: what should you do next?
At First Call Panel & Paint located in Durban with years of experience in accident repairs, we’ve seen it all—from minor fender benders to complete wrecks. And we know that what you do in those first few moments can make all the difference. So, let’s break it down step by step.
1. Ensure Safety First
The first few seconds after an accident can feel like a blur. Your pulse is racing, and your mind struggles to process what just happened. Breathe.
- Check for injuries. Start with yourself—do you feel pain anywhere? What about your passengers? If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately (10111 or 112 from a mobile).
- Move to safety. If the car is drivable, pull it to the side of the road. If not, turn on your hazard lights and place a warning triangle a few meters behind your vehicle to alert other drivers.
- Stay alert. The last thing you need is another collision because another driver wasn’t paying attention.
Case in Point: One of our customers, Thabo, once shared how his quick thinking saved him. He was rear-ended on the M4 in heavy traffic but knew not to jump out of his car immediately. Instead, he checked his mirrors and only exited when it was safe, preventing further injury.
2. Call for Help
Once you’re safe, it’s time to make some important calls:
📞 Emergency Services: If anyone is injured or there’s serious damage, call 10111 for SAPS and 112 for an ambulance.
🚗 Towing Services: Beware of tow truck operators who appear out of nowhere. Always call a towing service recommended by your insurance or trusted panel beaters like First Call Panel & Paint.
👮 Police Report: If there are injuries or significant damage, you’re required by law to report the accident within 24 hours. Without a case number, your insurance claim could be denied.
Real Example: A client of ours, Sarah, once assumed that a minor accident didn’t need a police report. Days later, the other driver falsely claimed she was at fault. Without documentation, her claim was rejected.
3. Gather Evidence on the Scene
Think of yourself as a detective—every detail counts. The more evidence you have, the stronger your insurance claim will be.
📸 Snap Photos: Take clear pictures of the damage, the position of the vehicles, skid marks, road signs, and even the weather conditions.
📝 Write Down Details: Names, contact info, ID numbers, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers of all involved.
👀 Find Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident, get their contact details—they could back up your version of events.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t rely on memory alone. Even a small misstatement could complicate your claim.
4. Avoid Costly Mistakes
Car accidents can be nerve-wracking, and mistakes happen. Here’s what NOT to do:
🚫 Don’t Admit Fault: Even if you think you were responsible, let the insurers determine liability.
🚫 Beware of Tow Scams: Some operators demand cash before releasing your car or charge excessive fees. Always ask for a breakdown of costs before agreeing.
🚫 Don’t Delay Reporting the Incident: The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to get an accurate report.
5. Report the Accident to Authorities & Insurance
Your insurance company is your financial lifeline after an accident, but they’ll need proper documentation:
✔ Get a case number from the police station.
✔ Submit your claim ASAP—some insurers have strict timeframes.
✔ Provide all necessary details, including photos and witness contacts.
🚗 First Call Panel & Paint Tip: Some insurance policies require you to use approved repair shops. However, you have the right to choose expert panel beaters who won’t cut corners.
6. Finding the Right Panel Beater in Durban
Your car is more than just transport—it’s part of your daily life. Choosing the right panel beater ensures it’s restored safely and correctly.
What to Look For:
✅ Reputation & Experience: Check reviews and ask about past work.
✅ Approved Repairer Status: Some insurers only work with certain repairers.
✅ OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: Make sure you’re getting quality replacement parts.
Case Study: A client of ours, Mzi, once went with the cheapest quote for his accident repairs. Three months later, his paint started peeling, and his car’s alignment was off. He had to pay extra to fix the poor workmanship. A cheap fix today can cost you more in the long run.
At First Call Panel & Paint, we ensure top-quality repairs, whether it’s minor dent removal or full spray painting.
7. Getting Back on the Road
Once repairs are complete, don’t just drive off—check everything carefully:
🔎 Inspect the Work: Does the paint match? Are there any gaps or misalignments?
🚗 Test Drive: Listen for unusual noises and ensure the car drives smoothly.
📝 Ask About Warranty: A good panel beater stands by their work.
✅ Final Thought: A well-repaired car not only looks good but also keeps you safe on the road.
Need Expert Repairs? First Call Panel & Paint Has You Covered!
Accidents happen, but stress-free repairs are possible with the right help. At First Call Panel & Paint, we specialize in professional panel beating and spray painting to get your car looking brand new again.
📍 Located in Durban and serving surrounding areas.
📞 Call us today for a quote or advice on your repair needs.
🚘 Trust the experts—because your car deserves the best!
For all repair work please contact Cyril on 072 1989 121 or email us at cyril@firstcallpanelbeaters.co.za.
