After An Accident
Take a Breath.
We'll Help You Take The Next Step.
An accident is stressful enough. Cooper's Collision helps you understand what comes next, works with your insurance provider, and repairs your vehicle according to the standards established for its make and model.
Anyone injured or in immediate danger? Call 911!
After An Accident
Five Steps To Take After An Accident
Stay calm, prioritize everyone's safety, and work through these steps one at a time.
1
Check For Injuries
Call 911 for injuries or immediate danger and follow emergency personnel’s instructions.
2
Get To Safety
If it is safe and the vehicles are drivable, take quick scene photos and move out of traffic.
3
Contact Authorities
Follow dispatcher or local law-enforcement instructions. If an officer does not submit a report, the driver may need to file one.
4
Document and Exchange Information
Photograph the vehicles, damage, scene, licenses, plates, insurance information, and relevant road conditions.
5
Start Your Claim and Call Cooper's
Notify the insurer, obtain the claim number, and tell them which repair facility you have chosen.
Documentation Checklist
Use Your PHone's Camera!
1. The full accident scene
2. Every vehicle and visible area of damage
3. Driver's license and license plate
4. Insurance carrier and policy information
5. Names & contact information
6. Witness & passenger information
7. Street signs, intersections, and road conditions
8. Officer name, badge number, and report number, if applicable
Know Your Rights
Your Repair Shop Is Your Choice.
Washington claims rules recognize the repair facility chosen by the claimant and require insurers to make a good-faith effort to communicate with that facility. Coverage, policy terms, and estimate differences can still affect the amount an insurer pays.
Cooper's Collision works with all major and specialty insurance carriers while keeping your vehicle's safety and repair needs at the center of the process.
After the Scene
We’ll Help You Handle What Comes Next.
Once everyone is safe, Cooper’s Collision can help make the repair process feel more manageable. Our team will explain the next steps, keep you informed, and help move your vehicle from accident damage toward a safe, proper repair.
Local Towing
Support
If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, call us before arranging the tow. With your claim number, we can help coordinate local pickup and confirm where your vehicle should be delivered.
DAMAGE
INSPECTION
Our team carefully inspects and documents the damage to determine what is needed to properly repair your vehicle.
Insurance
Coordination
We communicate with your insurance carrier, provide repair documentation, and address additional accident-related damage discovered during the repair process.
Manufacturer-Recommended Repairs
If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, call us before arranging the tow. With your claim number, we can help coordinate local pickup and confirm where your vehicle should be delivered.
Keep It Close
Be Ready Before You Need It.
It can be difficult to remember what to do in the moments after an accident. Download our accident reference guide and keep a copy in your glove box so the most important information is always within reach.
INSIDE THE GUIDE:
- Five immediate steps to follow
- Information and photographs to collect
- Important insurance reminders
- Washington collision-reporting resources
- Cooper’s Collision contact information
**For general reference only. Always follow the instructions of emergency personnel and local authorities.
Common Questions
Quick Answers Before You Call
CAN I CHOOSE COOPER’S IF MY INSURANCE COMPANY RECOMMENDED ANOTHER SHOP?
Yes. You may choose the repair facility you trust. Tell your insurance carrier that you have selected Cooper’s Collision, and our team can communicate with the carrier about the repair.
SHOULD I DRIVE MY VEHICLE AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
If you are uncertain whether the vehicle is safe to drive, do not take the risk. Call Cooper’s and tell us what happened. We can help you determine the next step and discuss local towing options.
WHAT SHOULD I HAVE READY WHEN I CALL?
If available, have your contact information, vehicle information, current vehicle location, insurance carrier, and claim number ready. Do not worry if you do not have everything yet—start with what you know.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MORE DAMAGE IS FOUND DURING THE REPAIR?
Some collision damage cannot be seen until the vehicle is disassembled. If additional accident-related damage is discovered, Cooper’s documents it and communicates with the insurance carrier about the necessary repair.
Ready When You Are
Let's Get Your RepAIR MOVING
Tell us what happened, whether you have opened an insurance claim, and where your vehicle is currently located. Cooper’s Collision will help you determine the next step.
Already started a claim? Have your claim number available when you call.