If your car was damaged in an accident, your mind is on taking care of the repairs as quickly as possible. After all, the sooner you take care of repairs, the sooner you can send the rental car back. But, while you're preparing for the repair of your car, you want to make sure you take steps to avoid any possible mistakes. Here are four steps you should take when getting bodywork done on your car after an accident. These steps will help you and the staff at the auto body shop. 

Ask Plenty of Questions

If you need to get some bodywork done on your car after an accident, the most important thing you can do is ask plenty of questions. Many people simply drop their car off at the auto body shop without asking any questions. Or, they have the car towed to the shop, and never call to ask questions. That's one of the worst things you can do. When you ask questions, you give the repair team an opportunity to describe the work they're going to do on your car. They can also alleviate any stress you might have about the process. If you're afraid you won't remember the questions, write them down before you head to the shop. 

Obtain a List of Repairs

When you drop your car off for repairs, you'll receive an estimate for the work that will be done. That estimate will include a list of repairs, as well as the anticipated cost for those repairs. But, that's not the only paperwork you'll need. After the repairs are completed, ask for an itemized list of the work that was completed. This list will give you a clear picture of everything that was done to your car. It will also serve as a record should you decide to sell your car later. 

Request an Inspection

Once the work has been done on your car, ask for an inspection. You'll want to get a good look at the work that was done. This is also a good time for the repair crew to explain everything that they had to do to fully restore your car. It's also a good time to ask any follow-up questions you might have about the repair work. 

Get a Feel for Your Car

Finally, once the repairs have been completed, make sure you get a good feel for your car. Before you sign the final papers to pick up your car, ask for a test drive. This will allow you to spend some time getting a feel for your car. This is an important step when you've had your car repaired after an accident. During the test drive, pay attention to anything that might seem out of the ordinary. This should include unusual sounds or changes in the performance of your car. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your repair technician. They can take a closer look at those issues.

Talk to an auto body repair service for more information.