whitesellcollision

A Guide to Auto Insurance Inspections

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 08:55:30 GMT

Drivers in Virginia are required to have their vehicles inspected for safety every year to maintain a valid vehicle registration. In addition to the state requirement, though, some insurance companies also require an inspection. For example, insurance carriers sometimes want to inspect used cars before covering them to prevent claims for preexisting damage. It's more common, though, to conduct an inspection after an accident to determine the extent of the damage and how much they will pay for collision repair .

Why Insurance Car Inspections Are Important

With advances in mobile technology, many insurance companies allow policyholders to use their phone cameras to submit images of vehicle damage after an accident as part of the claims process. However, submitting photos has limitations and doesn't always reveal the full extent of the damage.

An in-person visual inspection of collision damage is preferable, as a trained inspector, or adjuster, can identify problems that may not show up in a photo. For example, even a minor collision can cause damage to the frame or suspension that makes the car unsafe to drive without collision repair. An in-person inspection allows for a more accurate assessment of the damage and an estimate of the cost of repairs.

What Happens During an Insurance Inspection

When you make an insurance claim, the inspector comes to your car wherever it's located. Some insurance companies also accept an inspection report submitted by a qualified technician at an auto body shop. During the inspection, the adjuster is not only evaluating the extent of the damage but also confirming that the damage present matches the description of the accident itself. They also determine whether any damage to the vehicle was present before the accident.

Once the inspection is complete, the adjuster either recommends collision repair and makes an estimate of the cost or declares the vehicle a total loss. Typically, if the cost of collision repair exceeds half the vehicle's market value, it's considered totaled.

Insurance Inspections After Collision Repair

Some insurance companies also require an inspection after a vehicle has been repaired to evaluate the quality of the work. These third-party checks ensure that nothing has been missed, and the vehicle is safe to drive. The inspection might include evaluating body work to ensure that panels are aligned, the paint is the correct thickness, and the proper parts have been used in the repair, among other checks. You can also request a post-repair inspection yourself if you suspect that the vehicle wasn't repaired correctly.

Be confident that collision repair is performed correctly the first time by turning to Whitesell Service In c. The certified technicians at this local auto body shop have served drivers in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia since 1949, providing high-quality repairs that will return your car to it's original condition. Learn more on their website , and call (540) 943-3361 for an appointment.

5 Signs You Need New Brake Pads

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 09:05:23 GMT

Safety is one of the biggest priorities of driving a car, which is why problems should be addressed promptly to ensure that you stay safe and in control behind the wheel. This is especially true when it comes to the brakes . Here are a few signs that can alert you to the need for new brake pads.

What Are Common Indications of Worn-Out Brake Pads?

1. Squealing Noises

As friction wears down brake pads, metal pieces built into the pad will be exposed. This metal scrapes against the brake discs or drums, creating a squealing, screeching, or squeaking noise to let the driver know the brakes are nearing the end of their life span. You may also hear these sounds sometimes in wet weather conditions, but if they come up persistently whenever you press the pedal, this is likely a sign that new brakes are needed.

2. Grinding or Growling

If a brake pad wears down too much, its metal backing can come in contact with the disc or drum, creating a deeper metal grinding noise. This is a serious issue and should be addressed promptly by a car repair professional, as continued grinding will eventually result in unsafe driving conditions and necessitate replacing not only the brake pad but also the drum or disk itself.

3. Indicator Lights

Many cars are manufactured with different indicator lights to help drivers stay proactive about maintenance. In some vehicles, a warning light may turn on when sensors detect that the brake pads are not working properly as the car decelerates. Even if you hear no other noises, always see a professional auto body shop to double-check indicators.

4. Vibrations

When you press on the brake pedal, the car should come to a smooth stop. Sometimes the pedal will vibrate when pressed, which is an indication of glazing, a condition where the resin in the pads heats up and smears unevenly across the disc or drum. When not addressed in a timely manner, vibrations can cause further damage to your car and affect the handling, so have an auto professional confirm if one or more parts of the brake system need to be replaced.

5. Visual Deterioration

Just as tires naturally deteriorate with distance, so do brake pads. On average, pads last about 30,000 miles, so perform visual inspections regularly once you reach higher mileage. If they are less than 1/4 of an inch thick, it is time for new pads.

If you suspect it’s time to get new brake pads, contact Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA. This licensed automotive care center works to ensure you remain safe on the road. Their team performs comprehensive diagnostics to identify and fix any issues you may encounter. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment.

4 Tips for Safe Driving in Parking Garages

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:20:38 GMT

Sometimes, even the best drivers can become a little too relaxed when driving. However, being inattentive in a parking garage can result in unfortunate and even dangerous consequences, resulting in the need for auto body work . Follow these tips to avoid parking garage incidents.

4 Ways to Prevent Car Damage in a Parking Garage

1. Pull Forward to Exit (When Possible)

Accidents frequently occur when drivers try to back out of their parking spaces. Garages are dark, tight spaces with unusual angles, so it's a challenge for drivers to maintain spatial awareness. Therefore, whenever possible, drive forward and pull through the space that's in front of you to exit. Remember to proceed slowly and look for traffic in both directions as you leave.

2. Travel Slowly

Speeding is the primary cause of many collisions, whether you're traveling on the highway or trying to maneuver in a parking garage. Traveling fast in a dark, tight space decreases visibility as well as your reaction time. Most garages have posted speed limits to help drivers stay safe. Keep an eye out for these signs and travel carefully so that you have time to react to unexpected obstacles, such as a pedestrian stepping out from behind a vehicle, a pillar in an unexpected place, or other cars turning a corner or pulling out of a space.

3. Avoid Distractions

It may not seem like a big deal to send a text or take a call while driving in a garage. However, drivers need to be extra vigilant since the driving conditions are unusual and visibility is limited. Wait until you're safely parked before picking up your phone.

4. Be Mindful of Clearance

Parking garages, especially older structures, often have low ceilings. However, many garages will also post the height limit for safe entry. Watch out for these signs to avoid costly auto body work. Be aware of your car's height and don't enter the parking garage if you have luggage or gear on top of your car.

If you've recently damaged your vehicle, contact Whitesell Collision of Waynesboro, VA for help. These auto body professionals have been providing collision repair across the Shenandoah Valley since 1949. They're a family-owned business with a reputation for high quality work and great customer service. Learn more about their services online or schedule an appointment by calling (540) 943-3361 .

4 Ways to Avoid Hitting a Deer at Night

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 09:27:20 GMT

The risk of drivers running into a deer tends to increase at night, especially because these animals are more active during low-light periods. Whether you’re driving down a busy highway or along the quiet country roads, deer can run in front of your vehicle and even cause wrecks that require extensive car repair . Fortunately, with a little foresight, it’s possible to avoid a collision. Here’s a closer look to help you to better prepare for your nighttime drives.

How to Avoid Hitting a Deer on the Road at Night

1. Use Your High Beams

Turn on the high beams whenever you’re alone on the road. These lights are made to reach a wider area, which could boost visibility and reveal potential hazards, such as a herd of deer grazing by the road. This will allow you time to slow down and avoid startling them.

2. Reduce Ambient Light

Any amount of light inside the vehicle will make it difficult to see. If you don’t need directions, turn off the GPS. The brightness of the screen can produce a glare and distract from the road. Even the dashboard can create a reflection that might obstruct your peripheral vision. Turning down the brightness of any electronics will help you to stay alert and avoid the need for car repair.

3. Follow Speed Limits

Speed limits are set for a reason and serve to keep drivers safe. If there’s a deer in the road, traveling 10 or 15 miles over the limit will reduce your reaction time and cause you to hit the animal head on. Driving within the speed limit, no matter if you're in a rush, will increase your ability to avoid deer on the road and continue safely on your way.

4. Anticipate Their Next Move

While a deer might be standing still on the side of the road, there’s always a chance they’ll spook and run in front of your vehicle. As these animals can run 30 mph and jump eight feet in the air , it’s important to anticipate their next move. Turn on your hazards to alert other drivers and slow your speed by 10 mph. Gently ease the vehicle past, keeping an eye on the deer to ensure that they remain in place.

If you encounter a deer on the road and require car repair, reach out to Whitesell Collision of Waynesboro, VA. This family-owned business provides a vast assortment of auto body work and features a team of ASE certified mechanics. They treat each vehicle as if it were their own and offer some of the most competitive rates in the industry. Call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for additional information on automotive repairs.

What to Know About Car Bumpers

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 09:38:59 GMT

While the bumper may have been a cosmetic feature for the earliest automobiles, it now plays a vital role in protecting your auto body . Understanding how the component protects your car and when you might need to replace it is essential knowledge for every driver. Here's what you should know about your vehicle's bumper.

How Does the Bumper Protect Your Auto Body?

A modern bumper consists of a metal or plastic cover that goes over a rigid reinforcing bar and sections of compressible plastic or foam. This combination of materials is designed to minimize collision damage from low-speed impacts. In fact, manufacturers are required to ensure that a bumper can absorb a 5 mph collision without any damage to the auto body. Of course, a quality bumper will also absorb the impact and reduce damage in higher-speed collisions as well.

Should You Have Your Bumper Repaired or Replaced After a Collision?

Whether the bumper should be repaired or replaced depends largely on the extent of the damage. Typically, repairs can be done for more superficial problems, such as scratches, minor dents, or looseness.

However, more severe damage can weaken the integrity of the bumper. If your bumper has large cracks or holes, major dents, or has experienced damage to the inner structure, it should be replaced.

Today’s bumpers also house various sensors, lighting controls, and even cameras. As such, even a minor collision could damage these systems. A more severe auto accident could result in damage to the suspension and frame, even if the bumper reduced the impact. Always have your vehicle checked out by a professional mechanic after an accident.

If you need bumper repair or replacement after a car accident, you can count on Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA, to get your car looking and functioning like new again. Having served the Shenandoah Valley since 1949, this auto body shop’s ASE and I-CAR certified technicians use top-quality parts to perform repairs. They'll ensure your bumper is ready to protect your car from impacts. Learn more about their repair services online, or call (540) 943-3361 to request an estimate.

4 Signs a Car Needs a Wheel Alignment

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 09:35:18 GMT

Unexpectedly driving over a pothole is enough to cause your wheels to become misaligned. Any type of forcible action can have the same result, affecting the way your car drives and significantly impacting your comfort and safety on the road. Here are a few key signs that it’s time to visit an auto body shop for a wheel alignment.

How to Tell if You Need a Wheel Alignment

1. Car Pulls to One Side

When driving straight, your wheels should only face forward. If the car pulls to one side when you let go of the steering wheel, or if it feels like it’s being pulled slightly and you have to exert more control to keep the wheel straight, misalignment is likely the cause. Over time, you'll notice it’s increasingly more difficult to prevent the car from drifting over.

2. Steering Wheel Vibrates

You can tell a lot about the condition of the alignment from the steering wheel. If you’re driving at a high speed, you might notice that the steering wheel shakes.

Confirm that your tires are inflated to rule out imbalance as a possible culprit. Otherwise, misalignment could cause miscommunication between the steering wheel and tires via the drivetrain, creating the vibration.

3. Tires Are Unevenly Worn

When your wheels are properly aligned, the tread on each tire wears down at an even pace. Misalignment affects tread wear significantly and may cause one tire to have greater tread depth than another. Improper alignment may especially cause the tires to show signs of wear along the edges.

4. Steering Wheel Is Crooked

The wheel’s positioning as you drive in a line can also alert you to a problem with the alignment. Pay close attention as you move down a straight road. Does the wheel look centered, or does it appear to move to the side? The wheel may also feel loose as you turn it.

If you're looking for a reliable auto body shop for wheel realignment, trust the skilled technicians at Whitesell Service Inc. Having proudly served drivers throughout Waynesboro, VA, and the Shenandoah Valley area since 1949, they offer a variety of services to ensure your safety on the road. This auto body shop will carefully inspect your vehicle to determine if the wheel misalignment is causing the problems and perform repairs to improve the car's handling. Visit their website for more information on their maintenance services, or call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment.

A Guide to Brake Pads

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 09:42:26 GMT

When you step on the brake pedal, you expect your vehicle to slow down and come to a complete stop. Functional brake pads are necessary for ensuring this happens. If these parts of the braking system are worn or damaged, driving can be unpredictable and dangerous. Here's what you should know about these important auto components.

How Do Brake Pads Work?

The pads are steel plates with a metallic or ceramic material attached to provide friction. Within the braking system, the brake pads work with the rotors, which are circular discs attached to each wheel.

When you press your vehicle's brake pedal, a hydraulic pump applies pressure through a network of tubes to the calipers. Within each caliper is a set of brake pads that creates friction to slow down the spinning rotors. This also reduces the wheel rotation so that you can safely come to a complete stop.

How Can You Tell if They Aren't Working?

Brake pads may eventually wear out and need replacing. If you hear metal grinding or squealing sounds, it could mean the pad’s friction material has thinned out, and metal is rubbing against the rotor’s metal components.

Vibrations or shaking when you press the pedal can also indicate that metal-on-metal contact is occurring within the braking system. You might also notice your steering wheel is shaking while driving. Finally, if the antilock brake system (ABS) light illuminates on your dashboard, you may have problems with the brake pads or other components, and you should have a professional inspect the vehicle.

If you suspect problems with your car's brake pads, contact Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA. They can replace these vehicle components to ensure your safety on the road. This licensed automotive care center has served drivers in the Shenandoah Valley since 1949. The team of ASE and I-CAR® certified technicians will conduct accurate diagnostics to identify and fix braking, mechanical, and electrical issues. Call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

3 Tips to Prevent Car Dings in Parking

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 09:47:12 GMT

Car dents, dings, and scratches are common in parking lots. Shopping carts can nick the exterior of the vehicle, and other motorists might swing open their doors into your automobile. While a dent repair shop can fix any blemishes your car sustains, here's what you can do to prevent parking lot damage in the first place.

How to Avoid Parking Lot Car Dents

1. Park Well Away From Other Vehicles

The best solution is to park as far away from other cars as possible. In most cases, shoppers clamor for spots near the store's entrance. Avoid these areas and instead choose a parking spot at the end of the row or well away from the building. You may have to walk a little further to reach your destination, but it should prevent any unpleasant surprises—like a door ding or chipped paint—upon your return.

2. Park Next to Cars of the Same Height

Auto manufacturers usually mount a protective rubber strip on car doors. This helps guard against dents and dings from similarly-sized vehicles. However, if the car you park beside is considerably taller or shorter than yours, a carelessly flung door could miss the protective strip and instead dent the door panel.

Additionally, note the length of the doors on nearby vehicles. For instance, the doors of two-door cars are usually many inches longer than those of four-door vehicles. When parking next to a car with unusually long doors, be sure to leave additional room for them to open.

3. Be Aware of the Weather

Many dings and dents occur on windy days. Two common hazards are shopping carts set in motion by gusts of wind and doors blown free from the grips of drivers emerging from their cars. Therefore, you should be especially mindful of where you park on blustery days.

When you need reliable car dent repair, contact Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA. This family-owned auto shop has served drivers throughout the Shenandoah Valley since 1949. They're renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship, friendly customer care, and prompt turnaround times. They'll efficiently restore your vehicle to its former condition, whether that involves fixing a dent or performing a paint job. Learn more about their services on their website, or call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment for dent repair.

3 Ways to Safely Handle a Tailgating Driver

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 09:53:14 GMT

Everyone has had an interaction with an aggressive tailgater at some time throughout their driving career. If you find yourself in this situation, the right approach can help you avoid an accident and the subsequent car repairs . Here's how to safely navigate any scenario involving a tailgater.

How to Stay Safe When You're Being Tailgated

1. Remain Alert

Ideally, the best approach is to avoid tailgaters entirely. If you notice someone tailing another car ahead of you or in an adjacent lane, attempt to stay as far away from them as possible while obeying traffic regulations. Pay close attention to the movements of the motorist following you in your rear-view mirror to determine if it is safer to move or allow them to pass.

2. Get Out of the Way

If you can't avoid the tailgating driver, you'll likely have to get out of their way. If you're driving on a multi-lane highway, use your turn signal and change lanes when it's safe to do so. Tailgaters in two-lane, no-passing zones might be a little more difficult to get away from, but you can avoid an accident by pulling over to a safe location, such as a parking lot or side street, and waiting for them to pass.

3. Follow the Speed Limit

Don't be tempted to go faster than you're comfortable with, no matter how quickly the driver behind you is driving. Keeping control of your car and driving safely should be the top priority. Driving at a high speed can also make an accident more significant and require more costly car repairs. If you maintain a constant pace, the tailgater may take advantage of the opportunity to drive past you.

Even if you practice safe driving around tailgaters, accidents can still happen. When they do, the team at Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA, will perform the necessary car repairs to get you back on the road as soon as possible. For over 70 years, this family-owned and -operated auto body shop has provided drivers throughout Shenandoah Valley with a broad of auto maintenance services. Call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about how they can repair your vehicle.

4 Ways to Avoid Distracted Driving

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 09:58:37 GMT

Whether you're cruising the open highway or navigating city traffic, driving requires focus to maintain safety. Becoming distracted while behind the wheel can lead to fender benders and the need for collision repair . Here are a few helpful tips to help you maintain focus when driving.

How to Prevent Distracted Driving

1. Use Cell Phones for Emergencies Only

Nowadays, it's natural to check social media, text messages, and emails on your phone throughout the day. While scanning your phone may seem harmless, looking down at your screen can take your eyes off the road for several seconds, making it harder to react to hazards.

Commit to only using your cell phone in emergencies. If you need to take a call or send a text, find a safe space to pull over. Keeping the phone in a pocket or the glove compartment can help you resist the temptation to check it.

2. Program GPS & Music in Advance

You may need to use a GPS when driving to a new destination or search for new songs during long road trips. However, fiddling with buttons, searching stations, and plugging in the destination address can pull your focus away from the road. By programing these features before leaving the garage or parking spot, you can start driving fully prepared.

3. Avoid Multitasking

On a workday, you may rush out the door and into the car unprepared. It may be tempting to multitask, but eating your breakfast, drinking a smoothie, or applying makeup on the road can become a serious hazard that interrupts your field of vision or makes it more difficult to check your surroundings. Try to wake up early to give yourself enough time for these morning tasks or wait until reaching the destination.

4. Save Important Conversations for Later

Keep the conversation light with friends and family while you're on the road. Important discussions, whether they be business-oriented or personal, can dominate your attention and slow your reaction time.

If you need to address a matter right away, find a safe place to pull over. Otherwise, it's best to leave the talk for a later time.

If you need collision repair, bring your vehicle to Whitesell Service Inc. in Waynesboro, VA. Since 1949, this family-owned and -operated auto shop has served drivers across the Shenandoah Valley. They'll perform fast and reliable work to get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Call (540) 943-3361 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their collision repair services.