Collision FAQ

How long will my repairs take?

Your estimator/advisor will present you with the estimated time that your repair will take. However, in collision repair there are many variables, which make it extremely difficult to give you an exact time until we know for sure we have eliminated all of the concerns and damage. Our primary job in to protect your interest at all times while working cooperatively with all insurance companies.

Will my paint color match?

The factory finish on your vehicle consists of multiple layers of highly specialized paint products. Freeport Metal Specialties made a tremendous investment in the latest paint matching technology available to our industry. We have the ability to tint to match your vehicle’s paint color. We also have invested in computerized color match systems that allow us to maximize our performance in color matching.

What steps do I take to care for my new paint?

During the first 30 days wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution. Always use clean fresh water. Wash your vehicle in the shade. Do not wax or polish your vehicle. This will allow the new finish to completely cure. Avoid parking under tress and utility lines, which may attract birds. Do not scrape ice or snow off of your new finish. In the event of something getting on your finish and you cannot remove it, come by and see us and we will assist you.

Do I have to get more that one estimate for the insurance companies?

No, there is no law requiring you to get more than one estimate.

If my vehicle's frame is damaged is it a total loss?


A car is considered a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company's determined value of your vehicle. Most cars are now built using a unibody (frame and body as one) structure. At Freeport Metal Specialties, our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of the-art computer systems, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.

After the crash: what to do in case of an accident? 
Let's say you have just had the misfortune of being involved in an auto accident. What should you do next? Here is a quick Accident Scene List to assist you in minimizing your misfortune and discomfort.

1. Stop your vehicle if it is clear, safe, and legal.
2. Move the vehicle out of the traveled roadway, if it is clear, safe and legal (in some states it is illegal to move a vehicle from the place where the accident occurred, in some states it is required).
3. Turn off the ignitions of the vehicles involved.
4. Make a first aid check of all persons involved. Look around to see if anyone is in immediate danger or needs medical assistance.
5. Call the police by dialing 911 for assistance (even if minor) and if necessary, emergency medical services.
6. Mark the scene of the accident with flares or retro-reflective triangles.
7. Gather the names of all the persons in the vehicles and the people who witnessed the accident
8. Make a quick diagram of where the vehicles occupants were seated and indicate the vehicles direction of travel and lane. Also note the date, time, and weather conditions. Look around and gather information on possible witnesses.
9. Ask to see the other driver's license and write down the number.
10. Get a copy of the police report of the accident from the local precinct.
11. If your vehicle needs to be towed, please call Northwest Towing at 815-235-3322.