(NAPSI)-No one plans for a car accident, but when it happens, a little bit of knowledge and preparation can help you ease your way through the collision repair process. Here are some answers to common questions asked by first-time accident victims:

The accident has made it dangerous or impossible to drive my car. Whom can I call for help?

Commonly, vehicle owners arrange for a tow truck through their insurance carrier's roadside assistance plan. Drivers of new and/or leased vehicles should also consider using the emergency roadside assistance plan provided by the vehicle's manufacturer. The coverage offered by automakers' plans matches and is often more extensive than the insurance companies' counterparts.

Where should I get my car repaired?

One of the most critical aspects of collision repair is getting the vehicle returned to "pre-accident condition." To accomplish this, your auto dealership may be the best point of reference, though it is likely your insurance company also will make recommendations. You have the final say in where your car gets repaired, though. Take the time to ask around and select the dealership or body shop with the best references.

How do I know my car is getting repaired properly and affordably?

During the collision repair process, you will have to make several choices, especially about the parts used to repair your vehicle, commonly known as "crash parts." Crash parts are defined as the sheet metal and plastic components most often damaged in accidents, such as fenders, hoods, bumpers and doors. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) crash parts are made by or for vehicle manufacturers and are the same as the parts installed on new vehicles.

There also are aftermarket parts (unauthorized imitations of OEM parts), salvaged parts removed from "totaled" vehicles and reconditioned parts. Your insurance company may specify any of the above-listed parts for your repair but you can request that your car be repaired with specific parts.

To make the choice that's right for you, consider these facts:

• Testing by a variety of manufacturers and independent firms consistently confirms that OEM crash parts outperform aftermarket crash parts in all critical quality areas, including fit, finish, structural integrity, corrosion protection and dent resistance.
• OEM crash parts meet all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
• Damage to adjoining or adjacent parts and/or systems, caused by a substandard aftermarket crash part, is not covered by vehicle manufacturer warranties.

Will I get my car back quickly?

The amount of time it takes to get your car repaired will depend greatly on the severity of the accident, but reading the collision repair estimate carefully can speed up the process considerably. Estimates can be confusing, so ask for explanations of all the abbreviations, acronyms or terms that you may not fully understand. If you are offered a repair payment check immediately at a drive-in claim center, don't cash it until you review the estimate with the collision repairer to be sure the check covers all repairs.

Using OEM parts also can save you time and money. A recent survey conducted by BodyShop Business found that only 63 percent of certified aftermarket parts provide an "acceptable" fit. Collision repairers have to spend extra time manipulating replacement parts that do not fit like the original parts designed for your car, which can significantly increase repair time. Increased repair time leads to more time without your vehicle and costlier rental car bills.

So what's the bottom line? If you need collision repair, know your rights. Select a reputable body shop, read the estimate and repair order carefully, and make your preference for parts known--before repairs begin. If you don't get involved in the decision-making process from the start, your parts preferences may not be considered. Finally, inspect all repairs carefully before you sign off on the job. These easy tips can help protect your vehicle investment and ensure a satisfying collision repair experience.

01/28/2009