Getting into a car accident is stressful. Your heart’s racing, you’re checking if everyone’s okay, and your mind is already jumping to insurance calls, repair costs, and how you’re going to get to work tomorrow. In all that chaos, it’s incredibly easy to make mistakes that can cost you money, compromise your safety, or create headaches down the road.
After working with thousands of collision victims throughout Massachusetts over the years, we’ve seen these mistakes happen time and time again. The good news? Most of them are completely avoidable when you know what to watch out for.
Here are the most common mistakes car owners make after a collision—and what you should do instead.
1. Skipping the Police Report (Even for “Minor” Accidents)
We get it. The damage looks minimal, the other driver seems nice and wants to “just handle it ourselves,” and you’re already running late for work in Boston. But skipping the police report is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
Why it matters: In Massachusetts, you’re required by law to report any accident that causes more than $1,000 in damage, results in injury, or involves a vehicle that can’t be driven. But here’s the thing—even a fender bender on Route 128 can easily exceed that threshold once you factor in modern repair costs.
Without an official police report, you have no neutral documentation of what happened. If the other driver changes their story later (and trust us, it happens), you’re stuck in a he-said-she-said situation. Insurance companies need that report to process claims properly, and the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires accident reports for their records.
Even if the damage seems minor, hidden issues like frame damage or mechanical problems often don’t show up until later. That “small dent” from a parking lot mishap in Newton could be masking thousands in structural repairs.
What to do instead: Always call the police, even for minor accidents. In Massachusetts, you must also file a Motor Vehicle Crash Operator Report with the RMV within five days if the crash meets certain criteria. Get the police report number and make sure both parties’ information is documented. Take photos of the scene, damage, license plates, and any relevant traffic conditions. Your future self will thank you.
2. Delaying the Inspection and Repairs
Life is busy. Maybe the car still drives fine, or you’re waiting for your insurance check to come through, or you’re hoping to “get to it next month.” Meanwhile, that cracked bumper and bent fender sit in your driveway, week after week.
Why it matters: What looks like cosmetic damage on the surface can hide serious structural issues underneath. Frame misalignment, damaged suspension components, or compromised safety systems don’t always announce themselves—until they fail catastrophically on I-93 or the Mass Pike.
Massachusetts weather makes delayed repairs even more problematic. Our harsh winters with road salt, freeze-thaw cycles, and nor’easters accelerate rust and corrosion. That exposed metal from a collision in October can turn into a serious rust problem by March. Plus, driving through a New England winter with compromised structural integrity is downright dangerous.
Some insurance policies also have strict time limits for filing claims, and Massachusetts insurance regulations require you to report accidents to your insurer “promptly.”
What to do instead: Get your vehicle inspected by a certified auto body shop as soon as possible after an accident, even if it seems to drive normally. At SK Auto Body, we offer free damage assessments that can identify hidden problems before they become dangerous or costly. Don’t let a Massachusetts winter turn minor damage into a major repair bill.
3. Choosing a Body Shop Based Only on Price
We understand the temptation. Three shops in the Merrimack Valley give you estimates, one comes in way lower than the others, and you think you’ve found a great deal. But the cheapest quote isn’t always the best value.
Why it matters: Low-ball estimates often mean one of three things:
- They’re using aftermarket or used parts instead of OEM quality parts
- They’re cutting corners on preparation, materials, or technique
- They’re underestimating the work and will hit you with surprise charges later
Massachusetts has some of the most advanced vehicles on the road, from Tesla’s electric cars to luxury European imports popular in communities like Newton, Brookline, and Cambridge. These vehicles require specialized knowledge, proper diagnostic equipment, and certified technicians to repair correctly.
You might save money upfront, only to discover poor paint quality that fades during a humid Massachusetts summer, parts that don’t fit properly, or repairs that don’t hold up through harsh weather. Some shops aren’t properly certified to work on modern vehicles with advanced safety systems like lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking.
What to do instead: Look for I-CAR certified shops with experienced technicians, proper equipment, and transparent pricing. Ask about their warranty, what kind of parts they use, and how they handle paint matching. Read reviews from actual Massachusetts customers who’ve experienced our weather and road conditions.
Quality repairs protect your investment and your safety, especially when you’re navigating Route 2, I-495, or winter conditions on country roads.
At SK Auto Body, we’re I-CAR Gold Certified and provide detailed estimates explaining exactly what work needs to be done and why.
4. Letting Insurance Companies Dictate Your Body Shop Choice
Your insurance adjuster helpfully suggests you take your car to one of their “preferred shops.” Sounds convenient, right? But here’s something most Massachusetts drivers don’t know: you have the legal right to choose your own repair shop.
Why it matters: Massachusetts General Law Chapter 90, Section 34M explicitly protects your right to choose where your vehicle gets repaired. Insurance companies cannot require you to go to a specific shop, and they can’t offer better claim terms if you use their preferred vendor.
Insurance-preferred shops might be more concerned with keeping the insurance company happy than giving you the best repair. They may face pressure to use cheaper parts or find ways to reduce repair costs—which doesn’t always align with what’s best for your vehicle.
Some of these arrangements create conflicts of interest where the shop’s loyalty is divided between you and the insurance company writing the checks. You deserve a shop that’s working for YOU, not for your insurance carrier’s bottom line.
What to do instead: Choose a body shop based on their reputation, certifications, and quality of work—not just because your insurance company recommends them. A good Massachusetts shop will work with any insurance company and handle the negotiation on your behalf.
Remember: the insurance company works for you (you pay the premiums), not the other way around. Don’t let them intimidate you into a shop you’re not comfortable with. Massachusetts law is on your side.
5. Ignoring Frame Damage Warning Signs
You had a collision, got some body work done, and your car looks great. Case closed, right? Not necessarily. Many Massachusetts car owners miss the warning signs of unrepaired frame damage because they don’t know what to look for.
Why it matters: Frame damage affects your vehicle’s structural integrity and safety. Even if your car looks fine cosmetically, a compromised frame can cause:
- Uneven tire wear that gets expensive quickly
- Poor handling that’s dangerous on highways like I-95 or Route 3
- Doors or trunk that won’t close properly
- Strange vibrations or pulling to one side
- Compromised crumple zones that won’t protect you in another accident
Massachusetts roads are tough enough without adding frame damage to the mix. Between potholes, frost heaves, and aggressive driving on Route 128, you need your vehicle’s structural integrity to be perfect.
What to do instead: After any significant collision, insist on a thorough frame inspection using computerized measuring equipment. If you notice any of the warning signs above after repairs, bring your vehicle back immediately. Don’t assume everything is fine just because it looks okay.
At SK Auto Body, we use advanced frame alignment technology to ensure every repair meets factory specifications. We don’t cut corners on structural integrity—ever.
6. Not Understanding Massachusetts Insurance Laws
Massachusetts has unique auto insurance laws that many drivers don’t fully understand. Making assumptions about your coverage can lead to expensive surprises after a collision.
Why it matters: Massachusetts requires all drivers to carry specific minimum coverage, but many people don’t realize what’s actually covered:
- Collision coverage is optional in Massachusetts (though lenders require it if you’re financing)
- Liability coverage only pays for damage you cause to others, not your own vehicle
- Your choice of Limited or Standard Tort affects what you can recover
- Massachusetts is an “at-fault” state, meaning whoever caused the accident is responsible for damages
We’ve seen too many Massachusetts drivers discover after an accident that they don’t have the coverage they thought they had, leaving them stuck with out-of-pocket repair bills.
What to do instead: Review your Massachusetts auto insurance policy NOW, before you need it. Understand what’s covered and what isn’t. If you’re not sure, call your insurance agent and ask specific questions about collision coverage, deductibles, and rental car reimbursement.
When you bring your vehicle to SK Auto Body, we’ll help you understand what your insurance should cover and work directly with your carrier to ensure you get every benefit you’re entitled to under Massachusetts law.
7. Accepting a Quick Cash Settlement Without Getting Proper Estimates
The at-fault driver’s insurance company calls and offers you a quick settlement check. They’re friendly, efficient, and ready to close the case. It’s tempting to just take the money and move on with your life.
Why it matters: Insurance companies are businesses trying to minimize payouts. Their initial offer is often lower than what proper repairs actually cost, especially for vehicles with hidden damage common in Massachusetts accidents.
That “quick settlement” for a rear-end collision on the Mass Pike might cover the bumper but ignore the frame damage, exhaust system issues, or sensor problems that a professional inspection would reveal. Once you accept and sign the release, you typically can’t go back for more money when the real damage becomes apparent.
Modern vehicles have sensors, cameras, and computer systems integrated throughout. A seemingly minor collision can damage expensive components that aren’t visible during a quick inspection at the accident scene.
What to do instead: Before accepting any settlement, get a thorough inspection from a certified collision repair shop. Bring the estimate to the insurance company and negotiate based on actual repair needs, not their initial offer.
Don’t let insurance adjusters pressure you into accepting less than your vehicle needs. Massachusetts law entitles you to full compensation for legitimate repair costs.
8. Trying DIY Repairs or Using “That Guy Who Does Body Work on the Side”
Your neighbor’s cousin does body work in his garage and says he’ll fix your car for half what a shop charges. Or maybe you’re handy and figure you can YouTube your way through some basic repairs. What could go wrong?
Why it matters: Modern vehicles are incredibly complex. They have advanced high-strength steel, aluminum construction, integrated safety systems, and sophisticated paint that requires specific application techniques and climate-controlled environments.
Massachusetts safety inspections are thorough. If repairs aren’t done properly, your vehicle might not pass inspection, leaving you unable to legally drive it. Plus, insurance companies won’t cover DIY repairs or unlicensed work if something goes wrong.
Improper frame repairs compromise the crumple zones and safety cage that protect you in an accident. That’s not something to trust to someone working out of their garage with inadequate equipment.
What to do instead: Use a licensed, insured, and certified auto body shop. Yes, it costs more upfront, but you get warranties, proper repairs, insurance coverage, and peace of mind. You’re also supporting legitimate Massachusetts businesses that follow regulations and employ trained technicians.
At SK Auto Body, every repair comes with warranty protection and meets all Massachusetts safety and inspection standards.
9. Forgetting to Document Everything
In the stress of dealing with an accident, many Massachusetts drivers forget to thoroughly document the damage, conversations with insurance companies, and repair process.
Why it matters: Without documentation, you have no leverage if disputes arise later. Insurance companies might deny claims, shops might dispute what was agreed upon, or you might need proof of repairs for resale value.
If you’re in a hit-and-run situation (unfortunately common in busy areas like Boston, Cambridge, or Worcester), documentation is absolutely critical for your insurance claim and potential police investigation.
What to do instead: Create a collision file with:
- Photos of all damage from multiple angles
- Police report and RMV report numbers
- Contact info for all parties and witnesses
- Written or recorded notes from insurance calls
- All estimates and repair invoices
- Correspondence with your insurance company
Keep copies of everything related to the accident and repairs. Store photos in multiple places (phone, computer, cloud storage) in case you need them months or years later.
10. Not Following Through on Insurance Claims
You start the claims process after an accident, but then life gets busy. You miss follow-up calls from your insurance company, forget to submit requested documents, or don’t respond to their settlement offer. The claim sits in limbo.
Why it matters: Insurance companies have deadlines and requirements. In Massachusetts, if you don’t actively pursue your claim, insurers may deny it for “lack of cooperation” or “failure to provide required information.”
Some Massachusetts policies require you to submit proof of loss within specific timeframes. Miss those deadlines, and you could lose your right to compensation entirely—even for legitimate claims.
What to do instead: Treat your insurance claim like an important project. Respond promptly to all requests, keep copies of everything you submit, and follow up regularly on claim status. Set reminders in your phone for important deadlines.
If the process feels overwhelming, a good body shop can help. At SK Auto Body, we work directly with insurance companies and handle much of the paperwork and follow-up, so you don’t have to navigate the process alone.
The Bottom Line: Protect Yourself After a Massachusetts Collision
Accidents are stressful enough without making mistakes that cost you money, compromise your safety, or create legal headaches. By avoiding these common errors, Massachusetts drivers can protect their interests and ensure their vehicles are properly repaired.
Remember the key takeaways:
✓ Always get a police report, even for minor accidents
✓ Have your vehicle professionally inspected immediately
✓ Choose quality repairs over cheap estimates
✓ Exercise your legal right to choose your own body shop
✓ Watch for frame damage warning signs
✓ Understand your Massachusetts insurance coverage
✓ Don’t accept quick settlements without proper estimates
✓ Use licensed, certified repair shops
✓ Document everything thoroughly
✓ Stay on top of your insurance claim
Need Expert Collision Repair in Massachusetts?
If you’ve been in an accident and want to make sure everything is done right, SK Auto Body is here to help. We’re I-CAR Gold Certified, family-owned, and experienced in working with all Massachusetts insurance companies.
We offer:
- Free damage assessments and estimates
- Direct insurance coordination and claims assistance
- Advanced frame alignment technology
- Complimentary rental car arrangements
- Extended warranties on all repairs
- Saturday appointments for your convenience
📞 Call us today: (978) 686-5752
📍 Visit us: 348 Howe St, Methuen, MA 01844
Don’t let common mistakes turn your collision into a bigger problem. Let our experienced team guide you through the process and get your vehicle back to perfect condition.
Have questions about collision repairs or dealing with insurance? Give us a call—we’re happy to help Massachusetts drivers understand their options, even if you’re just gathering information.
About SK Auto Body
SK Auto Body is a family-owned, I-CAR Gold Certified collision repair center serving Massachusetts drivers for over two decades. Founded by Sam Kassis and now led by his son Shadi, we’re committed to quality repairs, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service. We work with all major insurance companies and treat every vehicle like it’s our own.
