What Is a Fender Bender & What to Do After One?
Even minor accidents can leave you shaken and confused, especially when you’re not sure what to do next. One of the most common types of accidents is the fender bender, a low-impact collision that typically causes cosmetic or slight structural damage. While they may seem small, they still require proper attention to keep your vehicle safe and your insurance claim smooth.
At JJ Autobody Inc., we help drivers who’ve experienced fender benders every day. Here’s what you need to know and the steps you should take immediately afterward.
What Exactly Is a Fender Bender?
A fender bender is a minor car accident that usually happens at low speeds. Common scenarios include:
- Rear-end collisions in traffic
- Parking lot accidents
- Stop-and-go traffic bumps
- Slow-speed side scrapes
While major structural damage is unlikely, fender benders often result in:
- Small dents
- Scratches or paint scuffs
- Misaligned bumpers
- Cracked or loose lights
- Minor alignment issues
- Hidden internal damage (sometimes unnoticed at first)
Even small incidents can affect your vehicle’s safety systems, so it’s important not to ignore them.
What You Should Do After a Fender Bender
- Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Even in low-impact crashes, take a moment to check yourself and your passengers. Safety always comes first.
- Move to a Safe Location
If the vehicles are drivable, move them to the side of the road or a parking lot to avoid blocking traffic or risking another accident.
- Document the Scene
Use your phone to take clear photos of:
- Vehicle damage (front, back, and sides)
- The area where the accident occurred
- License plates
- Close-ups of dents, scratches, or broken parts
- The other driver’s vehicle
This documentation is essential for insurance claims and repair estimates.
- Exchange Information
Get the following from the other driver:
- Name
- Phone number
- Insurance company & policy number
- Driver’s license
- License plate number
Avoid discussing who was at fault—just stick to the basics.
- Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the fender bender and provide your photos. Your insurer may ask you to:
- Get an estimate from a repair shop
- Speak with an adjuster
- Submit documentation through their app
At JJ Autobody Inc., we work directly with all major insurance companies to streamline this step for you.
- Visit JJ Autobody Inc. for a Professional Damage Assessment
Even minor accidents can cause hidden issues. A simple bumper tap may impact:
- Sensors
- Alignment
- Suspension
- Internal bumper reinforcement
- Electrical components
- Safety systems
Our technicians at JJ Autobody Inc. perform a full inspection to ensure:
- All damage is identified
- No safety features are compromised
- You receive an accurate estimate
- Your car is restored to pre-accident condition
We’ll provide a written repair estimate, explain your options, and assist directly with your insurance claim.
- Schedule Your Repairs
Once the estimate is approved, JJ Autobody Inc. can begin repairs right away. We offer:
- Precision dent and bumper repair
- Computerized color matching
- Paint refinishing
- Alignment and suspension checks
- Replacement of damaged parts
- Quick turnaround times
Why You Should Never Ignore a Fender Bender
While the damage may seem cosmetic, neglecting repairs can lead to:
- Peeling paint and rust
- Worsening dents
- Misaligned bumpers that reduce crash protection
- Faulty sensors (like backup or collision sensors)
- Long-term suspension or alignment issues
- Reduced vehicle value
Addressing repairs early saves you money and ensures your vehicle stays safe.
Trust JJ Autobody Inc. After a Fender Bender
Whether the damage is small or more complex than it looks, JJ Autobody Inc. gives you:
✔ Accurate estimates
✔ Fast, high-quality repairs
✔ Insurance claim assistance
✔ State-of-the-art equipment
✔ Exceptional customer service
At JJ Autobody Inc. We’re here to make the entire process stress-free from start to finish.