How to Handle a Hit and Run

July 13, 2023

How to Handle a Hit and Run

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a distressing and frustrating experience. When a driver flees the scene without providing their information, it can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of how to proceed. However, it's crucial to know the steps you can take to handle a hit-and-run situation effectively. So, we'll guide you through the necessary actions to take if you find yourself in a hit-and-run accident.

Safely Gather Information on the Hit and Run

The priority after a hit-and-run incident is to safely gather information. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Then, try to gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle involved in the accident. Take note of the make, model, color, and license plate number if you can catch it.

If you have a dashcam installed, read out the other vehicle’s license plate so it’s audibly recorded. This means you don’t have to worry about forgetting a license plate number or relying on low-resolution footage. Additionally, if there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information as their statements can be valuable for insurance claims or police reports.

Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle. Capture the positions of the vehicles involved and any debris on the road. This documentation will serve as evidence of the hit and run and can aid in the investigation and insurance claim process. Additionally, if there were any surveillance cameras nearby, inform the police, as their footage might have captured the incident.

Notify Your Insurer and Law Enforcement

Next, it’s imperative that you immediately contact the police to report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with all the details you gathered, including the description of the other vehicle and any witness statements. The police will create an official report of the accident, which will be important for insurance purposes and potential legal action.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the hit and run. Provide them with all the details of the incident, including the police report and any evidence you collected. They will guide you through the claims process and help assess the damage to your vehicle. Depending on your policy and the circumstances, your insurance company may cover your repair costs.

Choose a Reputable Collision Center

Following a hit-and-run, choose a reputable collision center that specializes in auto body repairs. Look for a collision center with a strong track record of quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. By selecting a reputable collision center that excels in these areas, you can ensure that your vehicle and its collision repairs are in capable hands.

1. Expertise and Experience

Ensure that the collision center has skilled, experienced technicians who can handle a wide range of repairs, including those resulting from hit-and-run accidents. Look for certifications and accreditations that validate their expertise, such as I-CAR Gold certification.

2. Range of Services

Confirm that the collision center offers comprehensive repair services, including bodywork, frame alignment, dent removal, and paint refinishing. They should have the necessary equipment and offer advanced techniques to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

3. Insurance Claims Assistance

Find a collision center that can assist you with navigating the insurance claims process. They should have experience working with insurance companies and conversely be able to provide accurate repair estimates and documentation to support your claim.

4. Warranty and Customer Satisfaction

Ask about the warranties provided by the collision center for their repairs. A reputable center will stand behind their work and offer warranties that give you peace of mind. Additionally, read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge their satisfaction levels and overall experience with the collision center.

5. Timeliness and Communication

Communication is key during the repair process. Choose a collision center that keeps you informed about the progress of your repairs, provides realistic timelines, and promptly addresses any concerns or questions you may have.

We Can Handle any Hit and Run Repair

While experiencing a hit-and-run accident can be disheartening, stay calm and take the appropriate steps. By ensuring your safety, gathering information, notifying the authorities, documenting the scene, and contacting your insurance company, you increase the chances of a successful resolution to the hit-and-run incident. Stay proactive and rely on the support of the authorities and your insurance company to navigate through the aftermath of a hit and run, ultimately helping you move forward and restore your peace of mind.

Remember, assistance from a professional auto body shop like Morrow Collision Center can help assess and repair damage to your vehicle. We enjoy restoring your vehicle's appearance and functionality, providing you with the necessary support following a hit-and-run. Contact us today to set up a consultation or drop-off servicing with our teams and see the difference!

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Preparing Your Vehicle for Fall: Maintenance Tips

September 4, 2025

As the vibrant colors of fall emerge and temperatures begin to dip, it's a reminder that winter isn't far behind. Changing seasons bring wet leaves, early morning frost, and shorter daylight hours, all of which can affect driving conditions. Preparing your vehicle now is key to staying safe and avoiding accidents. While routine maintenance is important, accidents can still happen. That’s where Morrow Collision Center comes in, offering expert collision repair to restore your vehicle if the unexpected occurs. 1. Check Your Tires and Brakes With cooler temperatures, tire pressure can drop, reducing traction on wet leaves or frost-covered roads. Inspect your tires for tread depth and wear, and make sure they’re inflated to the recommended PSI. Brakes are equally critical, autumn roads can be slippery, and functioning brakes reduce stopping distances. If your brakes show signs of wear or make unusual noises, schedule an inspection. Morrow Collision Center can repair any collision damage caused by brake-related incidents, keeping your vehicle safe and reliable. 2. Inspect Windshield Wipers and Lights Rain, fog, and early frost make visibility a priority. Replace worn wiper blades and refill washer fluid with a formula suitable for colder weather. Also, check all exterior lights like headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they are fully functional. Poor visibility is a common factor in fall fender benders, and addressing these issues early helps prevent accidents. If a collision does occur due to visibility issues, Morrow Collision Center provides fast, professional auto body repair to get your car back in top condition. 3. Maintain Your Vehicle’s Exterior Fallen leaves and early frost can damage paint and trap moisture against your vehicle. Regular washing and waxing protect your car’s finish and prevents corrosion. Minor dings and scratches from autumn hazards can be repaired quickly with paintless dent repair at Morrow Collision Center, preserving your vehicle’s value and appearance. 4. Check Fluids and Battery Cooler weather can affect your car’s battery and essential fluids. Test your battery to ensure it holds a charge, and top off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. A weak battery or low fluids can contribute to accidents if your car stalls unexpectedly. In case an accident does happen, Morrow Collision Center offers comprehensive collision repair services, including frame straightening, bumper repair, and auto glass replacement. 5. Common Fall Accidents and How to Handle Them Even careful drivers may encounter minor collisions in the fall. Wet leaves, slippery roads, and poor visibility increase the risk of: Fender benders in parking lots or at intersections Sideswipes from tight lanes or crowded streets Rear-end collisions in traffic or during sudden stops Morrow Collision Center is equipped to handle all types of collision damage, restoring vehicles safely and efficiently. Our I-CAR Gold certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure repairs meet factory standards, and we work with all major insurance companies to simplify the claims process. 6. Plan for the Unexpected Even with preventive measures, accidents happen. Keep your vehicle documentation, insurance information, and emergency contacts handy. If an accident occurs this fall, having a reliable collision repair partner like Morrow Collision Center ensures your car is returned to you quickly and safely, often with rental car assistance through our Hertz Preferred Partner program. Conclusion Fall driving brings beautiful scenery but also extra hazards. By inspecting tires, brakes, lights, and fluids, you can reduce the risk of accidents. However, collisions can still occur, and when they do, Morrow Collision Center provides expert repair services, including paintless dent repair, auto glass replacement, bumper repair, and full-frame restoration. Trust our certified technicians to restore your vehicle and get you back on the road safely this fall. Contact us here!

The Role of OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts in Collision Repair

August 14, 2025

After a collision, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is what kind of replacement parts should be used to repair your vehicle. This often comes down to a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts. While both options serve a similar purpose, they differ in quality, compatibility, and cost and the decision can have a lasting impact on your vehicle’s performance, safety, and value. At Morrow Collision Center, we’ve been restoring vehicles with precision and care for over 25 years. Based in Lincoln, NE, we help customers make informed decisions about their repairs and explain how the parts used can affect the outcome. In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts and why it matters in the collision repair process. What Are OEM Parts? OEM parts are manufactured by the same company that built your vehicle. These parts are made to match the exact specifications of the original parts installed at the factory. OEM parts are designed for perfect fit, function, and compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model. What Are Aftermarket Parts? Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and are not produced by the vehicle’s original manufacturer. These parts are typically designed to be compatible with multiple makes and models, and they vary in quality depending on the brand. Key Differences Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts Let’s take a closer look at how these two options compare in the context of collision repair: 1. Fit and Compatibility OEM Parts: Guaranteed to fit your vehicle precisely, minimizing the risk of misalignment or installation issues. Aftermarket Parts: May not always fit as precisely, especially if they’re designed for multiple vehicle types. This can lead to additional labor time or the need for modifications. 2. Quality and Performance OEM Parts: Match the quality and materials of the original components, offering consistent performance and safety. Aftermarket Parts: Quality can vary by manufacturer, and some may perform just as well, while others may wear out faster or not meet the same safety standards. 3. Warranty and Insurance Coverage OEM Parts: Often come with a warranty from the manufacturer and are more likely to be covered by your vehicle’s original warranty. Aftermarket Parts: May have limited or no warranty and could potentially void certain aspects of your factory warranty. At Morrow Collision Center, we work closely with your insurance company to determine what type of parts are covered under your policy. 4. Cost Considerations OEM Parts: Typically, more expensive due to the manufacturer branding and guaranteed fit. (If OEM Parts are preferred for better fitment and performance, the customer may be responsible for the additional out-of-pocket cost.) Aftermarket Parts: Usually more affordable, which can help lower out-of-pocket costs, especially if insurance doesn’t cover OEM. So, Which Is Better? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your vehicle’s age, your budget, insurance coverage, and personal preference. For newer or high-end vehicles, OEM parts may be worth the investment to maintain factory-level performance and value. For older cars or minor repairs, aftermarket parts may offer a cost-effective solution. At Morrow Collision Center, we walk you through your options and help you choose the parts that meet your needs, without sacrificing safety or quality. Why Trust Morrow Collision Center? Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Morrow Collision Center is a family-owned and operated shop known for quality workmanship, transparency, and customer care. Whether we’re using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts, our I-CAR certified technicians ensure your vehicle is repaired to pre-accident condition with precision and integrity. We offer: Expert collision repair for all makes and models Limited Lifetime Warranty Paintless dent repair and full body work Frame straightening and unibody repair Help navigating insurance claims Free estimates and status updates throughout the repair Get Back on the Road with Confidence Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts can feel overwhelming, but with the right collision repair team on your side, it doesn’t have to be. At Morrow Collision Center, we explain your options clearly and stand behind every repair we perform. Contact us today!