For many classic car enthusiasts, their vehicle is one of their most prized possessions. A classic car is much more than just a means of conveyance; it’s like a piece of artwork or a family heirloom. Unfortunately, accidents can happen on the road no matter what you’re driving or how much care you take. If you’ve recently gotten into an accident in your classic car, then this blog is for you. Consider this your ultimate guide to classic car accident repair:
Pre-Accident Checklist
Before you drive a classic car, there are certain steps you must take to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. First, always check the car’s vitals before you start driving. Damage to a classic car’s engine or mechanical features could lead to dangerous driving conditions. What’s more, always make sure that the person driving a classic car knows how to do so properly. Classic cars handle much differently from a modern car –– so be prepared to adjust your driving style!
What’s more, it’s crucial for all classic car owners to purchase insurance for their vehicles. Finding the right insurance for a classic car can sometimes prove difficult because of the shifting value of classic cars and other factors. The same insurance that will work for your family minivan may not work for your classic car. We suggest using an insurance company that specializes in classic cars and trucks. That way they can underwrite your vehicle for the proper value so if an accident occurs, they can assist in getting your car restored to its original condition before the accident.
Without the right classic car insurance coverage, you may not receive sufficient reimbursement should you have an accident. If you just tell an insurance company that you have a 1970 Camaro, the blue book value will be very low. They don’t recognize the value that we know that car has! So if you’re unable to work with a specialized insurance agency for classic car insurance, you may be able to work with your regular insurance agent to get an agreed value of your classic car. According to American Collectors Insurance, “regular auto insurance generally does not factor in non-factory upgrades/improvements made during restoration into the claim settlement offer (e.g., engine upgrades, suspension improvements, wheel upgrades, safety improvements, custom paint, etc.). With an Agreed Value policy, you and the insurance company agree on the value you will receive if your car is stolen or damaged in a covered testoviron “total loss”. In most cases such as these, many standard insurance companies require an independent appraisal of the value of your classic car or truck before they agree on that value.
Accident Safety 101
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, motorists should always make safety their number-one priority. Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved in the accident for injuries, and call emergency services if need be. Remain calm, and, if possible, move your vehicle to a safer location –– like the side of the road or a nearby lot. From there, you can contact the authorities to give a statement and exchange information with any other drivers involved in the accident.
Find a Trustworthy Repair & Restoration Shop
Repairing and restoring a classic car is, obviously, very different from repairing a modern car after an accident. That’s why classic car owners should always partner with a classic car repair and restoration shop should they need assistance. Everything from a new paint job to replacing damaged parts after an accident requires intimate knowledge of classic cars and classic car repair best practices. You may even consider shipping your classic car to a shop that you trust.
Act Fast
Never put off classic car repairs if you can avoid it. Left unattended, classic car problems can become worse over time. And even seemingly small issues –– like flaking paint or worn shocks –– can affect the value and driveability of your car. Don’t hesitate to act if your classic car needs repairs or restorations of any kind.
Write Everything Down
Restoring a classic car is a process that can take months to complete. Thankfully, by tracking every improvement, repair, and restoration project your car undergoes, you can more effectively ensure its quality and protect its value. A classic car is like any other important investment –– you have to take care of it if you want to realize its full potential.
Contact Us
Getting into an accident can be a harrowing experience, but the good news is that there are restoration professionals who can help you get your classic car back to its best ASAP. At Precision Restorations we can help you with all of your restoration needs from body work to full engine replacements. We love classic cars as much as our customers, and we’re happy to provide various restoration services and options. Contact us here at 1-844-701-6396 or email me directly [email protected]. We’re ready to answer any questions you may have and provide any and all restoration services you require!