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Fresno Body Works

After Hours & Accident Guide

Take a breath. We'll handle the rest.

Accidents are stressful — the next steps shouldn't be. Here's what to do tonight, how our after-hours drop-off works, and what to expect in the morning.

In the First Hour

Right after the accident.

  1. 1. Make sure everyone is safe

    If anyone is hurt, call 911. Move to a safe spot if possible and turn on your hazards.

  2. 2. Document the scene

    Photos of every angle, the other driver's license and insurance, the location, and any visible damage to both vehicles.

  3. 3. File a police report

    Even for minor collisions in California — it protects you during the insurance claim.

  4. 4. Call us for towing guidance

    We'll help coordinate a tow to the nearest Fresno Body Works location or hold your spot for the next morning.

After Hours Drop-Off

How the key drop works.

Each of our four locations has a sealed, secure key drop near the main entrance. Drop-offs are picked up first thing each business morning by the location manager.

  1. 01

    Park in front of the shop

    Pull into our customer parking area. We have well-lit, monitored lots at every location.

  2. 02

    Use the secure key drop

    Each location has a sealed drop slot near the front entrance. Drop your keys in the provided envelope.

  3. 03

    Leave us your details

    Fill out the drop-off envelope: name, phone, year/make/model, insurance carrier, and a short description of the damage.

  4. 04

    We'll call first thing

    A Customer Service Specialist will reach out the next business morning to walk you through the estimate and next steps.

Drop-Off Checklist

What to leave in the envelope.

The more information you can leave, the faster we can have an estimate ready when we call you back.

  • Driver's license number or copy
  • Insurance carrier name + claim number (if filed)
  • Year, make, model, and color of your vehicle
  • Best phone number and email to reach you
  • A brief description of how the damage happened
  • Any preferences on repair timing or rental needs

After You Drop Off

What happens next.

  1. Within 24 business hours — A Customer Service Specialist calls you, confirms the damage, and reviews the next steps.
  2. Within 1–2 days — We complete a written estimate, share it with you, and (with your approval) submit to your insurer.
  3. Throughout the repair — You'll get updates by text or phone — whichever you prefer.
  4. At pickup — A walkthrough of every repair completed, plus our lifetime workmanship warranty.

Frequently Asked

After-hours questions.

  • Can I drop my car off after hours at any location?

    Yes — all four Fresno Body Works locations have a secure after-hours key drop near the main entrance. We process drop-offs first thing the next business morning.

  • Should I leave my car at the scene or have it towed?

    If the vehicle isn't safe to drive — leaking fluids, deployed airbags, or major structural damage — have it towed. Call us at (559) 298-8068 and we'll coordinate a tow to the nearest Fresno Body Works shop.

  • Do I need to file with my insurance before I drop it off?

    It's helpful but not required. If you haven't started a claim yet, just include your insurer's name on the drop-off envelope — we'll help you file when we call the next morning.

  • Will my rental car be coordinated?

    Yes. If your policy includes rental coverage, we'll work with the insurer and the rental agency to have a vehicle waiting when you arrive to pick up the keys.