After a collision: organize the next steps
Prepare useful photos, claim details and questions about repair approval.
Read the lesson, then check your understanding.Safety comes before the paperwork
Check for immediate danger and injuries, and call emergency services when needed. Do not stand in traffic or approach a damaged vehicle to get a better photo. Follow emergency personnel’s directions. Maryland’s Move It guidance addresses safely moving drivable vehicles out of the roadway after a minor property-damage collision; a visibly damaged or unsafe vehicle should not be driven simply to clear a form.
Once safe, record the time and location, exchange the appropriate contact and insurance information, and preserve any incident reference you receive. If towing is needed, confirm the destination, operator, quoted charges and how to retrieve the vehicle and personal belongings.
Create one organized claim file
Keep the insurer’s claim number, adjuster contact, vehicle details, damage photos and related documents together. Photograph only what you can reach safely. Do not publish private documents or other people’s contact details on public social media.
Submitting M&A’s collision intake starts a repair conversation; it does not file every insurer’s claim or guarantee coverage. Contact your insurer through its official channel. Ask about your deductible, rental arrangements, inspection requirements and approval process. Confirm who will pay each charge before authorizing it.
Understand changes to the repair estimate
Some damage becomes visible only after further inspection or disassembly. If more work is found, ask for the added findings and revised estimate. Clarify what the insurer has approved, what still needs review and whether your own authorization or out-of-pocket amount changes.
At delivery, review the completed work and any remaining questions. Keep the invoice, warranty terms and relevant repair documentation. If a coverage dispute remains, contact the insurer and, when appropriate, the Maryland Insurance Administration. A repair shop cannot promise an insurer’s decision.
Your next-visit checklist
- Reach safety before taking photos.
- Confirm tow destination and charges.
- Keep claim and adjuster details together.
- Review changes before authorizing added work.
Check your understanding.
Answer all three correctly to save this course as completed. You can review and retry as often as needed.
Next: Before you buy a used vehicle →Explore the original guidance
Lesson updated September 17, 2026. General education; use the instructions for your vehicle and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority. Completing this lesson does not certify you to repair or inspect vehicles.