Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision Blog

A car accident can be a highly stressful event, but knowing the right steps to take can help protect your safety and legal interests. Whether it’s a minor accident or a more serious collision, here are five important things to do after a car accident. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries The first priority after any accident is ensuring your safety. If possible, move to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road, to prevent further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. It’s also crucial to check yourself and others involved for injuries. If there are any injuries, call 911 immediately to get medical help. Even if there are no apparent injuries, it’s wise to get checked by a healthcare professional to rule out hidden injuries that could escalate. Call the Police and Report the Accident Regardless of how minor the accident may seem, it’s important to call the police. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which is vital for insurance claims and legal purposes. When the officer arrives, provide them with accurate and truthful information. If possible, take note of the officer’s name and badge number for future reference. Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s) Once the situation is safe and the police are on their way, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). This should include: Full names Addresses Phone numbers Driver’s license numbers License plate numbers Insurance company details Policy numbers This information is important for filing claims. If there are any witnesses, get their contact details as well. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Documenting the scene will provide strong evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings. If there are any skid marks or debris on the road, photograph those as well. Be sure to write down the exact time, location, and conditions of the accident. This documentation can be vital for proving fault or defending against any claims. Contact Your Insurance Company & Choose a Reputable Repair Shop Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, even if it was minor. Be honest and thorough when explaining the details of the incident, and provide them with all the documentation you gathered. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process. Your insurance agent might suggest that you go to a particular shop, but you can choose where to get the repairs done, and it’s important to select a highly-regarded shop . Collision Repair in Huntington, NY When you need collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Car accidents can happen in an instant, often resulting in costly damage and significant injuries. While some factors are beyond a driver’s control, many accidents can be prevented through attentive driving and good habits. If you do get in a wreck, it’s important that your car is repaired by an expert. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide top-quality collision repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at five tips for preventing car accidents. Remain Focused on the Road Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents. Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can take your attention away from the road, even for just a moment. To stay focused, eliminate distractions before you begin driving. Don’t handle your phone, set up your GPS in advance, and ensure you’re fully attentive to your surroundings. Follow Speed Limits and Adjust for Conditions Speeding is a major contributor to accidents, as it reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Always adhere to posted speed limits, and adjust your speed when conditions change. For example, slow down during heavy rain, fog, or snow. Driving at a safe speed allows you to maintain better control of your vehicle and avoid dangerous situations. Safe Following Distance Tailgating is a common behavior that can lead to rear-end collisions, especially if the vehicle in front of you stops suddenly. To avoid this, always maintain a safe following distance. A general rule of thumb is to stay at least three seconds behind the car ahead under normal conditions, and even more in poor weather. This distance gives you enough time to react if the driver in front brakes unexpectedly. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained A poorly maintained vehicle can increase the risk of accidents due to issues like brake failure, tire blowouts, or malfunctioning lights. Regular maintenance checks are crucial to ensuring your car is safe to drive. Pay attention to your brakes, tires, headlights, and windshield wipers, and address any issues promptly. Practice Defensive Driving Defensive driving is all about anticipating potential dangers and being prepared to react safely. This means staying aware of other drivers, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding aggressive behaviors like weaving between lanes or cutting off other vehicles. By being patient and alert, you can minimize risks and respond calmly to unexpected situations. Collision Repair in Huntington, NY When you need collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Rust is one of the biggest threats to your car’s condition and appearance. Once it takes hold, it can spread quickly, causing structural damage and lowering the value of your vehicle. Preventing rust requires proactive measures to protect your car’s surfaces. If your car does develop any rust, it’s important to address it ASAP before it spreads further. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert automotive rust repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are five tips for preventing car rust. Wash and Wax Regularly Keeping your car clean is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent rust. Dirt and debris can accumulate on your car’s exterior and trap moisture against the surface, creating conditions for rust to form. Washing your car regularly removes these contaminants, while applying a high-quality wax provides a protective barrier that helps shield the paint from moisture. Repair Paint Chips and Scratches Promptly Even minor scratches and chips in your car’s paint can lead to rust if left untreated. Exposed metal is highly vulnerable to moisture and air, which accelerate corrosion. Addressing scratches and chips quickly can prevent rust from taking hold. Keep the Undercarriage Clean and Protected The undercarriage of your car is particularly susceptible to rust because it’s constantly exposed to water, dirt, and road salt. Regularly washing the undercarriage removes debris and contaminants that could cause corrosion. Store Your Car in a Dry Environment Where you park your car matters when it comes to rust prevention. Parking in a garage or covered area can help protect your car from rain, snow, and humidity, all of which contribute to rust. If you don’t have access to a garage, using a high-quality car cover can shield your vehicle from the elements. Check for Rust Regularly Regular inspections can help you catch rust before it becomes a serious problem. Pay close attention to areas where rust is most likely to form, such as wheel wells, door frames, and under the car. If you spot early signs of rust, such as small patches of discoloration, address them immediately. Car Rust Repair in Huntington, NY When you need auto body repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your car’s paint is not just about aesthetics—it’s your first line of defense against rust and other damage. To help ensure your vehicle maintains its showroom shine, consistent care is crucial. Here are five tips to keep your car's paint job in excellent condition. Wash Your Car Regularly Regular washes are essential to remove dirt, grime, and contaminants that can erode your car’s paint. Bird droppings and tree sap are especially damaging if left for long periods. Washing your car every two weeks helps maintain its vibrant finish. Be sure to use products specifically designed for automotive paint to avoid causing scratches or dulling the surface. Wax Your Car to Protect the Finish Waxing your car forms a protective barrier over the paint, helping to safeguard it from harmful UV rays, pollutants, and minor abrasions. By waxing your vehicle every three to four months, you’ll not only enhance its shine, but also extend the life of its paint. Using a high-quality product will provide better protection. Park in Covered or Shaded Areas Sunlight is one of the biggest enemies of a car's paint job. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade the color. Whenever possible, park in a garage, under a carport, or in a shaded area. If none of these options are available, a car cover with UV protection is a worthwhile investment to protect your vehicle from the elements. Use Appropriate Cleaning Products Always use gentle, automotive-grade cleaners and soft microfiber towels or sponges when washing your car. This enables a thorough clean without compromising the integrity of the paint. Address Chips and Scratches Immediately Even small chips and scratches can lead to larger problems if left unaddressed. Exposed metal can rust, spreading damage beyond the surface. Repair chips and scratches as soon as you notice them to preserve your car’s appearance and prevent costly repairs. Auto Painting & Paint Repair in Huntington, NY For auto painting in Huntington and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we strive to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by consistently doing flawless work at fair prices. Whether you need some light scratch repair or frame straightening after a serious accident, our team will work diligently to get the job done right the first time. And we’re grateful when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “I really could not be more grateful or happy with the service. I was so upset after getting into an accident and causing pretty extensive damage to the side of my car. Tom was such a pleasure to work with. He answered all of my questions, made the process so easy, made the repairs in a timely and efficient manner, and my car looks brand new now! I was so stressed before bringing my car to Tom’s, but he truly made the process so easy, and is such a genuinely nice person and wonderful to work with. Thank you so much!!” — Katie S. “Wouldn’t even consider using any other shop!” — Carl M. “Tom and Chris went above and beyond repairing a bad crack in the bumper of my old Mercedes. It's seriously as good as new, not even a hint of repair or repainting. They even replaced a dead lightbulb and restored my yellowing headlights without me asking. Just an incredible service, I cannot recommend these guys enough!” — Ken L. “Total satisfaction from start to finish! Helpful in all ways, especially with Tom communicating with Geico, getting back to me and Enterprise and setting it all up for me. Customer service was excellent! Couldn’t have asked for more. Will definitely go back if needed and will recommend to others.” — Nancy “I had a great experience with Tom's. My car is good as new and Tom made the insurance process nice and easy.” — Patty M. Collision Repair in Huntington, NY For collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your car's frame is its backbone, providing structural support and helping to ensure that your vehicle remains stable and safe on the road. If your car’s frame sustains damage, it’s essential to address the issue right away. Ignoring frame damage can lead to significant safety risks and long-term problems. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car frame repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are three important reasons to fix car frame damage as soon as possible. Compromised Safety The most critical reason to repair car frame damage is safety. Your vehicle's frame is designed to protect passengers by absorbing the impact during a collision. When the frame is bent or damaged, its ability to safeguard you and your passengers is significantly reduced. In the event of another accident, a weakened frame won’t provide the protection it was designed for, putting everyone in the car at greater risk of serious injury. Increased Wear on Tires and Suspension A damaged car frame can affect the alignment of your wheels and suspension system. This misalignment can cause uneven wear on your tires, leading to a higher risk of blowouts or loss of traction on the road. Also, the suspension system may wear out faster due to uneven weight distribution, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Fixing the frame promptly can prevent these cascading problems. Poor Handling and Stability Frame damage can negatively affect your vehicle's handling, making it harder to drive. You may notice that the car pulls to one side, feels unstable at higher speeds, or doesn’t respond to steering as it should. These issues can make everyday driving more dangerous, especially when making quick maneuvers or driving on uneven roads. Addressing frame damage helps restore proper handling. Car Frame Repair in Huntington, NY When you need collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our local body shop, we can restore your vehicle to a safely drivable condition. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your car's paint job does more than just make your vehicle look good—it also serves as an essential layer of protection for your car’s body. Ignoring paint damage, no matter how minor, can lead to more significant problems down the road, such as rust formation. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car paint repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are four reasons to promptly fix auto paint damage. Prevents Rust Formation When your car's paint is chipped or scratched, it exposes the underlying metal to moisture and air. This can lead to the formation of rust, which weakens the vehicle’s structural integrity. Rust starts as a small issue, but once it spreads, it can cause extensive damage to your car's body. Quickly fixing paint damage will help you avoid more expensive rust repairs later on. Maintains Resale Value A well-maintained paint job is essential for retaining your car’s value. Prospective buyers are likely to pay more for a car that looks pristine. On the other hand, a vehicle with visible paint damage may signal neglect, driving down its resale price. Promptly fixing paint damage will keep your car looking great and help preserve its value if you plan to sell or trade it in the future. Protects Against Weather Damage Your car’s paint acts as a protective shield against the elements. Harsh sunlight, rain, snow, and other environmental factors can worsen paint damage. UV rays from the sun, in particular, can cause further degradation of exposed areas. By repairing paint damage promptly, you help prevent weather-related wear and tear that could compromise your car’s exterior. Enhances Aesthetic Appeal No one wants to drive around in a car that looks beat up. Paint damage detracts from the overall appearance of your vehicle and can make it look much older than it is. By fixing chips, scratches, and other imperfections right away, you can restore your car’s original shine and give it that like-new look. This can boost your pride in ownership and make your car more enjoyable to drive. Auto Paint Repair in Huntington, NY For auto painting services in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our local body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Keeping your car’s paint job pristine can be a challenging task. Even the most cautious drivers sometimes find themselves dealing with unsightly scratches. Understanding how these scratches happen can help you take steps to prevent them. But if your car does get scratched, it’s important to fix the damage ASAP so that rust doesn’t get the chance to set in. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at five common causes of vehicle scratches. Parking Lot Hazards Parking lots are notorious for causing car scratches. Tight spaces, crowded lots, and careless drivers can all contribute to accidental scratches and dings. Shopping carts, car doors, and other vehicles pose significant risks. Always try to park in a spot with ample space around it, and be mindful of shopping carts and other potential hazards. Tree Branches and Bushes Parking or driving near overgrown trees and bushes can result in scratches from branches and twigs. These scratches can range from minor surface marks to deeper gouges, depending on the branch's thickness and how much contact it makes with your car. To avoid this, try to park away from overhanging branches and be cautious when driving near foliage. Improper Washing Techniques Washing your car incorrectly can do more harm than good. Using dirty sponges, abrasive materials, or even automated car washes with harsh brushes can cause scratches. Always use clean, soft microfiber cloths or mitts. Road Debris While driving, your car can be hit by rocks, gravel, or other debris kicked up by the tires of your vehicle or others around you. This can cause chips and scratches, particularly on the lower parts of your car and the front bumper. Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, especially trucks, can help minimize this risk. Careless Acts Sometimes scratches happen due to simple carelessness. This can include anything from setting items on top of your car, like keys or bags, to children playing near your vehicle. Even leaning against the car with metal objects in pockets can cause damage. To prevent these scratches, make it a rule to avoid placing items on your car and be mindful of your actions around it. Car Scratch Repair in Huntington, NY When you need auto body repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment !

Your windshield is a critical safety component of your vehicle. When you notice a chip or crack in your windshield, it might be tempting to ignore it, especially if it seems minor. However, addressing windshield damage promptly is important for several reasons. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert windshield repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at four important reasons to fix windshield damage ASAP. Safety Concerns Your windshield plays a crucial role in your vehicle's structural integrity. It provides support to the roof, particularly in a rollover accident. A damaged windshield is more likely to shatter, which compromises the protection it offers to you and your passengers. Even a small chip can soon turn into a large crack, significantly weakening the windshield and putting everyone at greater risk in an accident. Prevent Further Damage Windshield damage tends to eventually spread. Changes in temperature or even just the normal vibrations from driving can cause a small chip or crack to expand. What starts as a minor repair can quickly turn into a costly windshield replacement if not addressed promptly. Fixing small damage early can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. Visibility Issues Even minor chips and cracks can obstruct your view of the road, creating dangerous driving conditions. Light reflecting off the damage can cause glare, and a crack in the driver's line of sight can be distracting and impair your ability to see clearly. Ensuring your windshield is in good condition helps maintain optimal visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Legal Implications In the state of New York, you can get ticketed for driving with windshield damage that affects visibility. Rather than risk a ticket, it’s best to promptly get to the shop for the repairs. Auto Glass Repair & Replacement in Huntington, NY For auto glass in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at  (631) 351-9146  . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment !