Easy Ways to Reduce the Risk of a Car Accident

Keen's Body Shop • March 9, 2024
two cars are damaged in a car accident on the side of the road .

According to the NHTSA, there's an average of one car accident every 60 seconds, which works out to well over 5 million accidents per year. With car wrecks being so common, it's especially important to take measures that reduce your risk of getting into one. But even if you drive defensively, every time you leave your driveway you're still at risk of getting in an accident because of somebody else's negligence. If your car is damaged in an accident, it's important that you entrust the repairs to a reputable body shop. A flawlessly restored body will keep you better protected if you get in another wreck at some point down the road. At Keen's Body Shop, our technicians are experts at meticulously repairing collision damage. Come and see us for top-quality auto body repairs in Columbus, OH.


Tips for Avoiding a Collision

Although it might sound obvious, the easiest way to prevent an accident is to simply keep your eyes on the road and two hands on the wheel. The top cause of accidents is distracted driving, with smartphone use being the main problem. However, there are other distractions that are sometimes to blame for accidents such as eating, grooming, and out-of-control children.


You can also decrease your chances of an accident by making sure that your windshield is free of blemishes that obscure your vision of the road. Windshield cracks and chips should be fixed so that your visibility is optimized. Another simple way to better see the road is to keep a good pair of polarized sunglasses in your car. At certain points in the day, the sun's glare can make it incredibly difficult to see the road. With polarized sunglasses, you'll be able to mitigate this blinding effect, which will in turn make it less likely that you get in an accident.


To minimize your risk of an accident, it's crucial that your brakes are working perfectly. Signs of brake trouble, such as squealing and grinding, should be addressed ASAP. Also, it's important to stay up to date with brake maintenance tasks like brake pad replacement and brake fluid exchanges. When your brakes are healthy and you keep a safe following distance, you'll be substantially less likely to get into a fender-bender.


Collision Repair in Columbus, OH

When you need collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, or Lancaster,contact Keen's Body Shop at 1-888-681-5336. At our local body shop, we can flawlessly repair your car's collision damage. And feel free to use our easy  online estimate tool!

What can I do to help prevent my car from developing rust?

By Keen’s Body Shop • April 3, 2025
Rust is one of the biggest threats to a vehicle’s longevity. Once it starts, it can spread quickly, weakening the car’s structure and diminishing its value. Fortunately, with proper maintenance and proactive care, you can significantly reduce the risk of rust developing on your vehicle. At Keen’s Body Shop, we can expertly repair blemishes on your car’s body that could otherwise lead to rust. Here are four tips to keep your car rust-free. Wash and Wax Your Car Regularly Dirt and other debris can accelerate rust formation by trapping moisture against your car’s surface. Washing your vehicle regularly removes these harmful elements before they have a chance to cause damage. Pay extra attention to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and lower panels where grime tends to accumulate. Applying a high-quality wax after washing adds a protective layer that shields the paint from moisture, reducing the risk of rust. Fix Paint Chips and Scratches Immediately Even small paint chips and scratches can expose the metal underneath, making it vulnerable to rust. If left untreated, these minor blemishes can allow moisture and oxygen to corrode the metal surface, leading to rust spots. For scratches and other damaged areas, professional repair will provide proper protection. Keep Your Car Dry and Store It Properly Moisture is the primary cause of rust, so keeping your car dry is important. If possible, park in a garage or use a car cover to shield your vehicle from rain and snow. Avoid leaving your car parked on wet grass, which may contribute to rust formation on the undercarriage. Inspect Drainage Areas and Remove Debris Vehicles have drainage holes and channels designed to direct water away from critical areas. When these become clogged with debris, water can accumulate and lead to rust formation. Check areas like door drains and sunroof channels to ensure proper drainage. Keeping these areas clear will help prevent standing water and reduce the likelihood of rust developing. Automotive Rust Repair in Columbus, OH For auto body repair in Columbus , Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

5 Actions to Take Following a Car Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • March 5, 2025
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what steps to take can help you navigate the process as successfully as possible. Here are five important steps to follow after a car accident. Check for Injuries/Take Safety Precautions The first priority after an accident is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If the accident is minor and your vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe location, such as the side of the road, to prevent further hazards. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation. Call the Police Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to contact law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be valuable when filing an insurance claim. When officers arrive, provide accurate information about what happened. The police will document the scene, gather witness statements, and provide you with a report number that you can reference later. Gather Information and Take Photos Collecting information at the scene is crucial for handling insurance claims and potential legal issues. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver, including their name, phone number, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details as well. Also, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These images can serve as valuable evidence if there are disputes about the accident. Notify Your Insurance Company Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the crash, including the police report number, photos, and any witness statements. Be honest about what happened, but avoid speculating about fault. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and explain your coverage. Choose an Expert Body Shop While your insurance agent might suggest you go to a specific shop, you get to decide where to go for the repairs. Be sure to choose a trustworthy shop that knows how to expertly repair collision damage. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For expert collision repair in Columbus , Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Show More >