Just as most people find a doctor before they get sick, so should you select a body shop before an accident occurs? Too often, motorists only search for a body shop after a crash and are usually directed by a tow truck driver worried about his commission or an insurance company trying to keep their cost down. Car accidents, even small ones, are traumatic. Dealing with the health and welfare of the people involved should be top priority, not worrying about where to take your car.

Three basic guidelines will help in the search for the right body shop:

1. Interview in-depth. Ask friends, colleagues and family for recommendations before picking facilities. Always ask the shop for references of people who have had different types of repairs done at different times. This will provide insight about the shop's strengths in particular areas.

2. Visit any prospective shop. Look for a clean and organized facility; ask to see vehicles they have just repaired; and request proof of auto body certifications (generally Masters and I-CAR training). Also do they meet government standards and guidelines when dealing with environmental and labour safety? Are they recommended by insurance companies?

3. Conduct a "background" check. Contact credible consumer "watchdogs" before making a final decision. Determine if there have been any complaints, and if so, how they were resolved. Everybody makes mistakes; it's the way problems are solved that demonstrates true character and ability.
   
   Along with selecting the right shop, make sure you also understand their estimating and repair policies and procedures before an accident happens.