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ICS Collision Services Blog

The True Cost of Cheap Auto Body Repairs

by ICS Collision Center • 22 March 2025
When your car sustains body damage, it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest repair option available. However, low-cost auto body repairs often come with hidden costs that can lead to more problems down the road. While saving money upfront may seem appealing, investing in high-quality repairs helps ensure long-term safety and value. Here’s why choosing cheap repairs can end up costing you more in the long run. Poor Workmanship Leads to More Repairs Low-cost auto body shops often cut corners to keep their prices down. This may mean using inexperienced technicians, skipping crucial repair steps, or rushing through the job. Poorly executed repairs can result in misaligned panels, uneven paint jobs, and structural weaknesses. Over time, these issues may worsen, leading to the need for additional repairs. Instead of fixing the problem once and for all, you may find yourself paying for multiple touch-ups or even a complete redo of the original repair. Low-Quality Materials Can Cause Damage One way budget repair shops reduce costs is by using low-quality materials. Inferior paints may not properly adhere to the surface, causing peeling or fading within months. Cheap fillers and adhesives may fail to provide a strong bond. High-quality repairs use industry-standard materials that provide durability so your car looks and performs as it should for years to come. Safety Can Be Compromised Your vehicle's body isn’t just for aesthetics—it plays a crucial role in protecting you during a collision. Cheap repairs often neglect structural integrity, putting you at greater risk in an accident. If a shop skips reinforcement steps or improperly repairs a crumpled panel, your car may not absorb impact as designed. This can lead to more severe injuries in a future collision. Investing in high-quality repairs ensures that all safety standards are met, giving you greater peace of mind every time you drive. Resale Value Takes a Hit When it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle, poor-quality bodywork can significantly reduce its value. Buyers and dealerships can often spot shoddy repairs, whether it’s mismatched paint, uneven body panels, or signs of rust developing from improper work. Investing in expert repairs ensures that your vehicle maintains its appearance and structural integrity, helping you get a better price when selling. Expert Auto Body Repair in Derby, KS For top-quality auto body repair in Derby, KS and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

by ICS Collision Center • 22 February 2025
A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can help protect your safety, legal rights, and financial well-being. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, your actions in the moments following the accident are crucial. Here are five important things you should do in the aftermath of a collision. Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety The first and most important step is to check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to have a medical professional evaluate them. If the accident is severe and poses further risk, such as a vehicle fire or traffic hazard, try to move to a safe location while waiting for emergency responders. However, if the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries or safety risks, keep your vehicle where it is until authorities arrive. Call the Police and Report the Accident Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s important to notify law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be useful when dealing with insurance claims and legal matters. When officers arrive, provide factual details about what happened and avoid making speculative statements. Document the Scene and Exchange Information Gathering evidence at the accident scene is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal issues. Use your phone to take photos of the vehicles, any visible damage, the surrounding area, and any relevant road signs or traffic signals. Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, driver’s license details, and insurance policy information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well, as their statements may be helpful later. Notify Your Insurance Company Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all necessary details, including the location, time, and a description of what happened. Most insurers have specific procedures for filing claims, so following their instructions will help streamline the process. Choose a Reputable Shop for the Repairs Even if your insurance company encourages you to go to a specific shop, you have the right to choose which shop conducts the repairs. Be sure to choose a highly-rated shop that’s known for doing top-quality work. Collision Repair in Derby, KS For expert collision repair in Derby, KS and the surrounding area, contact ICS Collision Center at  316-217-8115  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
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