Picture this: you’re driving through Van Alstyne on a Tuesday morning, maybe heading to work or running errands, when suddenly—CRASH. Whether it’s a fender-bender in the Walmart parking lot or something more serious on Highway 75, that split second changes everything. Your heart pounds, your hands shake, and suddenly you’re faced with decisions that could impact your finances, your safety, and your peace of mind for months to come.
In our years serving the Van Alstyne and surrounding North Texas communities, we’ve seen it all at AutoBody by Fisher. We’ve worked with customers who handled their accidents like pros, and others who, unfortunately, made costly mistakes in those crucial first hours and days. The difference often comes down to being prepared and knowing what to do when emotions are running high and stress levels are through the roof.
Today, we want to share the five biggest mistakes we see people make after car accidents—mistakes that can cost you thousands of dollars, compromise your safety, or leave you driving a vehicle that’s not properly repaired. More importantly, we’ll show you exactly how to avoid these pitfalls.
Mistake #1: Treating Documentation Like an Afterthought
We get it. When you’re standing on the side of Highway 75 with traffic whizzing by, or dealing with a parking lot incident outside the local HEB, the last thing you want to do is play photographer. You’re shaken up, maybe embarrassed, and you just want to get out of there. But here’s the truth: those few extra minutes you spend documenting the scene could save you thousands of dollars later.
Think of your phone as your insurance policy’s best friend. Every photo you take is potential evidence that could make or break your claim. We’ve had customers come to us with insurance companies trying to deny obvious damage claims simply because there wasn’t enough photographic evidence from the scene.
Here’s what you need to capture:
Start with the big picture—literally. Take wide shots showing the entire accident scene, including all vehicles involved and their positions relative to each other. Then zoom in for the details: every scratch, dent, and scrape on all vehicles. Don’t forget license plates, street signs, traffic lights, and road conditions. If it’s raining, snowing, or there are potholes or construction zones nearby, document those too.
But here’s something most people forget: take photos of areas that look undamaged too. Why? Because sometimes damage isn’t immediately visible, especially with modern vehicles where sensors and safety systems can be affected even when the exterior looks fine. Having “before” photos of undamaged areas can be crucial if hidden damage is discovered later.
The witness factor: If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information. In Texas, witness testimony can be incredibly valuable, especially in complex intersection accidents or when fault isn’t immediately clear. We’ve seen cases where a witness’s statement was the deciding factor in getting a claim approved.
Pro tip from our team: Create a simple checklist in your phone’s notes app right now, while you’re thinking clearly. Include reminders for photos, insurance information exchange, witness contacts, and police report numbers. When adrenaline is pumping, even the smartest people forget basic steps.
Mistake #2: Playing Judge and Jury at the Scene
Texas drivers are generally polite folks, and sometimes that works against us. We’ve had customers who were clearly not at fault start apologizing at the scene, saying things like “I’m so sorry” or “I should have seen you coming.” While being courteous is admirable, these statements can be twisted later to suggest admission of guilt.
Here’s the reality: determining fault in a car accident is a complex process that involves examining evidence, reviewing traffic laws, analyzing vehicle damage patterns, and sometimes even bringing in accident reconstruction experts. It’s not something that should be decided in the emotional moments right after a crash.
What you should say instead:
- “Is everyone okay?”
- “Let me get my insurance information.”
- “I think we should call the police.”
What you should never say:
- “It was my fault.”
- “I’m sorry” (beyond expressing concern for injuries)
- “I wasn’t paying attention.”
- “I didn’t see you.”
Even if you think you might have contributed to the accident, keep those thoughts to yourself until you can speak with your insurance company or an attorney. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—but premature admissions can reduce your compensation or eliminate it entirely.
We’ve worked with customers who initially thought they were at fault, only to discover through proper investigation that the other driver was speeding, texting, or violated a traffic law that wasn’t immediately apparent at the scene.
Mistake #3: Taking the Insurance Company’s First Offer as Gospel
Insurance adjusters are professional negotiators. It’s their job to settle claims for as little as possible while still maintaining customer satisfaction. That first estimate they give you? It’s rarely their best offer, and it’s often based on incomplete information or the cheapest possible repair scenario.
Here’s what most people don’t realize: You have rights as a policyholder that extend far beyond accepting whatever number the adjuster throws at you. In Texas, you have the right to choose your own repair facility, get second opinions, and challenge estimates that don’t seem reasonable.
At AutoBody by Fisher, we regularly see estimates that are hundreds or even thousands of dollars below what the actual repair will cost. Why? Sometimes it’s because the adjuster didn’t spot all the damage during their initial inspection. Modern vehicles are complex machines with sensors, cameras, and safety systems that can be affected even in seemingly minor accidents. What looks like a simple bumper replacement might actually require recalibration of safety systems, replacement of sensors, or structural repairs that aren’t immediately visible.
Your rights include:
- Getting estimates from multiple repair shops
- Choosing any licensed repair facility, not just those on the insurance company’s “preferred” list
- Requesting a supplement if additional damage is discovered during repairs
- Having a qualified technician inspect your vehicle before accepting any settlement
Red flags to watch for: If an insurance adjuster pushes you toward a specific shop, offers to “handle everything” without your input, or pressures you to accept an estimate quickly, take a step back. While there are many ethical insurance professionals, some use high-pressure tactics to close claims quickly and cheaply.
Mistake #4: The “I’ll Deal With It Later” Trap
Life in North Texas keeps us all busy. Between work, family, and everything else on our plates, it’s tempting to put off car repairs, especially when the damage seems minor or the car is still drivable. But this “I’ll get around to it eventually” mindset can cost you big time.
The hidden costs of delayed repairs:
Small dents and scratches aren’t just cosmetic issues. They’re invitations for rust, especially in our Texas climate where we deal with everything from scorching summer heat to occasional ice storms. Once rust starts, it spreads, turning a simple paint touch-up into a major bodywork project.
But there’s an even bigger concern with modern vehicles: safety systems. Today’s cars are equipped with radar sensors, cameras, and other technology that help with everything from automatic emergency braking to lane-keeping assistance. These systems are precisely calibrated, and even minor damage to bumpers or mirrors where sensors are housed can affect their operation.
We’ve had customers discover months after an accident that their automatic emergency braking wasn’t working properly because of unrepaired bumper damage. In one case, the customer rear-ended another vehicle because they were relying on a safety system that had been compromised in a previous, “minor” accident that they never properly repaired.
The resale value factor: North Texas has a strong used car market, but unrepaired accident damage sticks out like a sore thumb to potential buyers and dealers. Even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, maintaining your vehicle’s condition protects your investment.
Insurance timing issues: Most insurance companies have time limits for filing claims. If you wait too long to address accident damage, you might find yourself paying out of pocket for repairs that would have been covered if you’d acted promptly.
Mistake #5: Choosing a Body Shop Based on Price Alone
We understand that cost is a major factor in choosing a repair shop. Vehicle repairs can be expensive, and when you’re already dealing with the stress and inconvenience of an accident, it’s natural to want to minimize the financial impact. But choosing a body shop based solely on the lowest price can end up costing you much more in the long run.
What separates quality shops from budget operations:
First, let’s talk about parts. Quality shops use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or OEM-equivalent parts that meet the same specifications as what came on your vehicle from the factory. Budget shops often use aftermarket parts that may not fit properly, may not provide the same level of protection in future accidents, or may fail prematurely.
Second, there’s the matter of training and certifications. The automotive industry changes rapidly, with new materials, techniques, and technologies being introduced regularly. Quality shops invest in ongoing training for their technicians. Look for certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair), ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), and manufacturer-specific training programs.
Third, consider the warranty. Reputable shops stand behind their work with comprehensive warranties that cover both parts and labor. If a shop won’t warranty their work, that should be a red flag.
Questions to ask potential repair shops:
- Are your technicians certified, and in what areas?
- What type of parts do you use, and do you offer options?
- What does your warranty cover, and for how long?
- Can you provide references from recent customers?
- How do you handle insurance company communications?
- What’s your estimated timeline for completion?
The hidden costs of cheap repairs: We’ve repaired vehicles that were previously “fixed” by budget shops, and the problems are often expensive to correct. Poor paint jobs that start peeling within months. Structural repairs that weren’t done properly, compromising safety. Electrical issues caused by improperly installed parts. In many cases, customers end up paying for the same repair twice—once at the budget shop and again at a quality facility to fix the problems.
The Bonus Mistake: Failing to Report the Accident Properly
Texas law requires drivers to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. Given that even minor repairs often exceed $1,000 these days, most accidents need to be reported to law enforcement. But beyond the legal requirement, there are practical reasons to file proper reports.
Why proper reporting matters: Police reports provide an official record of the accident that can be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. Even if the other driver seems friendly and cooperative at the scene, their story might change later. We’ve seen situations where drivers who initially accepted responsibility later claimed they weren’t at fault, leaving our customers in difficult positions.
Insurance notification: Even if you don’t think you’ll file a claim, notify your insurance company about the accident. This protects you if the other driver later files a claim or if you discover damage that wasn’t initially apparent. Most insurance companies have specific time limits for reporting accidents, and failing to meet these deadlines can result in claim denials.
Moving Forward: Your Action Plan
Accidents happen to all of us, but being prepared can make all the difference in how smoothly the recovery process goes. Here’s your action plan:
Before an accident happens:
- Save important phone numbers in your contacts: your insurance company, local police non-emergency line, and a trusted body shop
- Keep a basic emergency kit in your car including a phone charger, flashlight, and pen/paper
- Review your insurance coverage so you understand your deductibles and options
- Create that photo checklist we mentioned earlier
If an accident happens:
- Ensure everyone’s safety first
- Call 911 if there are injuries or significant damage
- Document everything thoroughly
- Exchange information but avoid discussing fault
- Contact your insurance company promptly
- Get estimates from reputable repair shops
Choosing the right repair partner: Look for a shop that treats you as more than just another claim number. The right shop will guide you through the insurance process, explain your options clearly, and stand behind their work long after you drive away.
Why This Matters for Van Alstyne and North Texas Drivers
Living in our area comes with unique driving challenges. We’ve got everything from busy Highway 75 traffic to rural farm roads, severe weather events, and the usual mix of cautious local drivers and hurried commuters. Each of these factors can contribute to accidents, and each type of accident may require different approaches to documentation and repair.
At AutoBody by Fisher, we’ve been part of this community for years. We understand the local driving conditions, work with area insurance adjusters regularly, and know what it takes to get vehicles properly repaired and back on the road safely. When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, having a local partner who understands your situation can make all the difference.
The Bottom Line
Car accidents are stressful, inconvenient, and often expensive. But by avoiding these five common mistakes, you can minimize the long-term impact on your finances, your safety, and your peace of mind. Remember: document thoroughly, don’t admit fault, question low estimates, address repairs promptly, and choose your repair shop carefully.
Most importantly, don’t try to navigate this process alone. Whether you need help understanding your insurance coverage, getting a fair estimate, or just want someone to explain your options, that’s what we’re here for.
Need help after an accident? AutoBody by Fisher has been serving Van Alstyne and the surrounding North Texas communities with honest, expert collision repair services. We’re located at 255 S Henry Hynds Expy (Hwy 75) in Van Alstyne, and we’re always happy to answer your questions—no pressure, no sales pitch, just straight talk about your options. Give us a call at (903) 482-5171 or email us at [email protected] for a free estimate and consultation.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. For specific legal questions about fault, liability, or insurance coverage, consult with a qualified attorney in Texas.
