Working Hours
  • Mon 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Tue 7:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Wed 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Thu 7:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Fri 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Sat 8:00AM - 1:00PM
  • Sun Closed
    Emissions: Monday-Saturday
    Repairs: Monday-Friday

203-426-7145 | 3 Commerce Rd Newtown, CT 06470

WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

How to Respond in a Tough Situation

Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues are handled with as little stress as possible.

  • First of all - stay calm.
  • If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical help.
  • Make sure you call the police.
  • Don't publicly make any statements where you either accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
  • Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record. Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
  • Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
  • In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and that they get the same information from you.
  • Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses as well.
  • Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of what could have caused the accident.
  • Write down pertinent details such as where the accident took place, what the weather was like, etc.
  • Once the information's exchanged, report the accident to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your fault.
  • Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your coverage and payments.
  • Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign anything if you don't understand it.
  • When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right to choose the shop to do your repairs.
  • Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as they are more expensive.

    You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle, and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide for yourself.
  • An insurance company also has the right to inspect your vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require you to visit one of their own claim centers.
  • And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident, but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident once in a while - it's just something that happens.

Remember - Drive Safely!

Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at 203-426-7145 or make an appointment online!


What Our Customers Are Saying

When my son called me to tell me he had a hole in his tire and couldn't make it home I was very concerned. Luckily he was just across the street from Newtown Car Care!! They could not have been more helpful!!! They got the tire ordered and we had it installed the next day. Special shout out to Johnny who overheard me talking to the woman at the counter and offered to go over to where the car was and put the spare on for us. He went above and beyond! They definitely gained our business for all of our car needs!

, 05/02/2023

reviewicon

Went for an emissions test and didn't pass, Johnny immediately knew the reason for a fail. I replaced the battery and didn't drive enough miles to have it tested. He suggested I drive 50-60 miles and return. I did and it passed. Thank you Johnny!!!!

, 01/04/2022

reviewiconInspections and Emissions, near Monroe, CT

We called Newtown Car Care Center on the off-chance that we could get contactless emissions testing because of the omicron surge, The employees here were so pleasant and helpful to work with and immediately accommodated our request. In fact, they even went further than we asked and told us that they had wiped down the inside of the car after performing the test. We were very pleased with their courtesy, and highly recommend this shop. Thanks to everyone with whom we dealt.

, 01/13/2022

reviewiconThe most helpful group ever!
Tires

The most helpful group ever! Got a slow leak in my tire while driving on 84 and was lucky enough to be directed to Newtown Car Care. They checked me out and changed my tire in less than an hour (on a Friday afternoon!) I only wish I lived closer!

, 11/22/2021
Failed my first emissions test. Tyler let me know exactly what I needed to address the issue - when I came back on a busy day, he got me in and out right away. Top notch customer service.

, 07/30/2021
I needed a VIN verification on a big truck for 10 bucks. I was out of there in minutes! No back burner right on it! Thanks for the great service!

, 06/18/2021
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  • Jasper Engines & Transmissions
  • ALLDATA
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  • Call Us For Service: 203-426-7145