How CollisionLane works

Tell us about the damage

Start with a few simple details. Tell us what hit, what is damaged, and where your car is located. You can also share photos if you have them.

That helps us understand the job before we connect you with shops. Common issues include dent repair, bumper damage, paint scratches, glass damage, and more serious collision repair. If you are not sure what the problem is called, that is okay. Just describe what you see.

If you want a broader overview of repair types, see auto body repair services. If you are wondering what to do right after the crash, our quick answers after an accident page can help too.

Get matched, free

Next, CollisionLane matches you with local auto body shops that fit your repair needs. This is a free matching service. We are not a body shop. We do not do the repair work ourselves.

The goal is to save you time and reduce guesswork. Instead of calling many places one by one, you can start with shops that handle the kind of damage your car has.

That can be especially helpful if you are new to the US, busy, or not comfortable with repair jargon. If language is a barrier, our service is built to be more approachable. You can also visit Get matched with a trusted auto body shop to start the process directly.

A good match does not mean you must hire that shop. It just gets you to the next step faster.

Compare written estimates

Once you are matched, ask each shop for a written estimate. A written estimate is the shop’s itemized price list. It should show parts, labor, materials, and other charges.

This step matters because repair prices can vary. Typical ranges are only ranges, not quotes. The final cost can change after the car is inspected more closely, especially if there is hidden damage. That is why it is smart to get estimates in writing and ask how price changes are handled.

When you compare estimates, look at more than the bottom line:
- What parts are included, if any
- Whether paint and color match work is included
- Whether there may be supplements, which are added charges for damage found later
- How long the repair may take
- Whether the shop explains the work clearly

For help reading a repair estimate, see How to read an auto body repair estimate. If you want to understand pricing better, our costs pages can also help you learn what is typical for different repair types.

Do not feel rushed. Compare. Ask questions. Confirm the price before work starts.

You choose and hire

After you compare the estimates, you decide which shop to hire. That is the point. You stay in control the whole way.

Choose the shop that gives you confidence, explains things clearly, and gives you a written estimate you understand. You can also think about convenience, repair experience, communication, and whether the shop has the right tools for your damage.

If you are not sure how to judge a shop, our How to choose a trustworthy auto body shop guide can help. If you want a simple question list for your visit, try the Body Shop Question Sheet.

Once you pick a shop, you can move forward with repairs. CollisionLane is not the repair shop, so the shop you choose handles the actual work, updates, and final invoice.

What you need before you start

You do not need a lot to begin. In most cases, it helps to have:
- Your name and contact info
- Your car’s year, make, and model
- A short description of the damage
- Photos of the damage, if you have them
- Your ZIP code or city
- Insurance details, if you want to share them

If you have already spoken with your insurance company, that is helpful too. If not, you can still start. For general background on claims, see How the auto body insurance claim process works. If you are trying to keep everything organized, the After-an-Accident Checklist may help.

Most important, do not guess on the price or sign before you understand it. Get written estimates. Confirm what is included. Ask about timelines and any possible extra charges. Then choose the shop that works best for you.