What to Do after a Car Accident

Average hail damage repair costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on your vehicle, the severity of the storm, and the type of repairs needed. The chart below offers a quick breakdown based on national averages to help you estimate where your vehicle might fall. Average Hail Repair Costs by Severity Not all hail damage is created equal. Repair costs scale quickly based on how many dents your car has—and whether they’re isolated to the roof and hood or spread across the entire body. Most estimates fall into three general severity tiers:

We collected data about experience, certifications, time serving the community, and several other factors to review auto body shops in Pueblo, CO. After narrowing the list down from 20 to just six, we’ve weighted the data according to the metrics that matter the most to vehicle owners in need of major repairs: industry-leading certifications, time in Pueblo and how well the company works with insurance companies to keep repairs covered. Below is a breakdown of the algorithm we used to assess local shops: How We Ranked the Body Shops Car repairs are significant investments, so people with damaged vehicles need to know that they are being taken care of by experts who know how to fix damage caused by the local climate. They also want to ensure that the repairs are, to the extent possible, covered by their insurance company to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. The algorithm weights the factors this way: • I-CAR Gold Certified (35 percent) I-CAR is the gold standard for auto body and collision damage repair and requires separate certifications for estimators, structural and non-structural technicians. • Years of Serving Colorado Vehicle Owners (25 percent) When serving Pueblo residents, certifications must be combined with actual time under a lift and performing repairs. We weighted this nearly as heavily because not all experience is equal without the proper training. • Locally Owned and Operated (15 percent) While there is nothing inherently wrong with auto repair centers in Pueblo that are part of larger chains, having ties to the community often results in significant expertise in local conditions that cause damage, like Pueblo’s torrential hail storms. • Insurance Company Relationships (20 percent) Ensuring that thousands of dollars of vehicle repairs will be covered by an insurer is crucial for maintaining affordability for owners when the unexpected happens. • Actual Location (10 percent) While Colorado Springs is just a 45-minute drive, it certainly adds to the hassle of trying to get a car fixed to have it towed all that way even though shops often say they perform repairs in both cities. Top Auto Body Shops in Pueblo, CO

Auto collisions are an unfortunate reality for many drivers in Pueblo, CO. Whether due to icy winter roads, distracted driving, or crowded city streets, accidents can leave vehicles with significant damage, presenting both logistical and financial challenges. Knowing how to navigate collision repair and work with your car insurance provider is crucial to minimize out-of-pocket expenses and ensure your car is restored to its original condition. Dangerous Intersections in Pueblo Nearly any off-ramp coming from I-25 can be an adventure. Pueblo Boulevard and its many high-traffic intersections also top the ranks of the city’s most dangerous places to operate a vehicle. Other key intersections that often find themselves listed in accident reports for vehicles that end up at Pro-Master Auto Collision include: Highway 50 and Elizabeth Street : More than three dozen collisions occurred here alone, with the predominant crash modality being a rear-end hit. Highway 47 and Dillon Drive : Another site of rear-end collisions, this is similarly an area where high-speed traffic and heavy cross-flows for large businesses mean increased risks for Pueblo motorists. Highway 50 and Manor Drive : Similarly to the Elizabeth Street intersection, this spot is another area where motorists can find it hard to manage the significant speed differentials, leading to a large number of rear-end collisions. Understanding Collision Damage and Repair Basics of Collision Damage Collisions can cause damage ranging from minor dents and scrapes to major structural issues. Depending on the speed and type of impact, common forms of collision damage include: Cosmetic Damage : Scratches, chipped paint, and minor dents. Frame Damage : Misalignment or bending of the vehicle’s structural components. Mechanical Damage : Impact can lead to issues with the drivetrain, suspension, or engine. Glass Damage : Broken or cracked windows and windshields are common in high-impact collisions. For drivers in Pueblo, where sun exposure and semi-arid conditions can exacerbate damage, prompt repairs are essential to prevent rust, paint fading, and long-term mechanical issues. Choosing the Right Collision Repair Method The extent and type of damage will determine the repair approach. Common methods include: Body Panel Replacement: For severely damaged panels, replacement ensures the integrity of the vehicle. Paint Repair and Refinishing : Fixes scratches and restores the original factory color. Frame Realignment : Advanced tools like laser alignment are used to restore a vehicle’s structural integrity. Glass Repair or Replacement : Specialized adhesives and techniques ensure a safe and seamless windshield or window repair. When it comes to collision repair methods, changes in automotive manufacturing over the past five to 10 years require specialized techniques, especially with the increased use of aluminum and other lightweight materials to save weight and improve efficiency. Be sure to look for an auto body shop in Pueblo that has the latest in industry-leading certifications like ICAR-Gold to ensure that they can effectively repair damage on modern vehicles. Collision Insurance Basics State Requirements While liability insurance is required in Colorado, collision coverage is optional. However, it is typically required by lenders if you have an auto loan or lease. Coverage Details Collision insurance covers damage to your car resulting from: Crashes with another vehicle. Single-car accidents (e.g., hitting a tree or guardrail). Collisions with objects (e.g., poles, curbs). Deductibles and Payouts Policyholders must pay a deductible (often $250-$1,000) before their insurance kicks in. Afterward, the insurer covers the remaining repair costs up to the policy’s limit. Collision coverage is a critical component of auto insurance policies that pays for the repair or replacement of your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. Here’s what you need to know: Steps to File a Claim After an Accident Navigating the claims process can feel overwhelming, especially after a stressful collision. Following these steps can simplify the process: Document the Damage with Photos/Videos After ensuring your safety, take clear photos or videos of the damage to your vehicle, the scene of the accident, and any contributing factors (e.g., weather conditions, road signs). While most drivers in multi-vehicle accidents exchange insurance information to speed up the process, be sure not to admit any potential wrongdoing. Notify Your Insurance Provider File a claim as soon as possible. Provide the necessary details, including photos, the accident report (if applicable), and any other relevant documents. If you are aware of the investigating law enforcement agency, an accident report can be extremely helpful at this stage. Meet with an Adjuster If you’re using an out-of-network repair shop, schedule a visit with an adjuster who will assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. Keep in mind that you do not have to accept this initial estimate. Choose a Collision Repair Shop Consider working with a preferred repair shop like Pro-Masters in Pueblo, which can simplify the claims process. Preferred shops often coordinate directly with insurers and provide warranties for their work. They may also keep you from having to schedule an appointment with an adjuster, or handle it themselves. Tips for Maximizing Your Insurance Claim Understand Your Policy: Know what is covered under your collision policy, including any exclusions or limitations. Negotiate Repair Costs: If the initial estimate from your insurer seems low, you can request a review or submit quotes from other repair shops. Leverage Preferred Shops: Insurers often work closely with preferred repair shops to streamline repairs and reduce out-of-pocket costs. Cost of Collision Repairs in Pueblo, CO Repair costs after a collision vary widely depending on the extent of the damage, the vehicle’s make and model, and the materials used. Below are general price ranges for common repairs: Minor Dent and Scratch : $200 – $500 Major Body Panel Damage : $1,000 – $5,000 Frame Realignment : $500 – $1,200 Glass Replacement : $150 – $400 for windshields Paint and Refinishing : $1,000 – $4,000 for full vehicle resprays While the initial estimates may seem steep, collision insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Learn More About Collision Insurance and Repairs at Pro-Masters Pro-Masters Auto Collision has been serving Pueblo drivers for over 20 years. Our team of ASE- and ICAR-Gold-certified technicians specializes in repairing vehicles to their pre-accident condition while ensuring adherence to insurance and safety standards. As a preferred shop for many insurers, we can help streamline the claims process, provide warranties for repairs, and even assist with rental car arrangements. To learn more about your options or get a free repair estimate, fill out the short form on our website or call us at  719-543-4393  . Let us take the stress out of collision repairs so you can get back on the road with confidence.

Pueblo’s hail season, like the rest of Hail Alley, extends roughly half of the year from May until September. However, some of the most recent severe events have occurred outside of the usual June and July peak or near the end, including: Aug. 13, 2024 : Hail reached sizes over two inches, about the size of a lime, and caused significant damage to vehicles and property throughout town. July 13, 2023: Precipitation reached nearly four inches in diameter, roughly the same as a softball, causing even more vehicular and property damage. For local drivers, the headaches come twice: once when they see what has happened to their vehicles and again when they try to figure out how to get it repaired by a local shop, hopefully covered by their car insurance policy. Knowing how to navigate both paintless dent repair (PDR) and conventional repair methods, as well as dealing with insurance companies and submitting claims, are crucial to ensuring that your vehicles are repaired, reduce the risk of future damage and are all done with minimal out-of-pocket expense. Understanding Hail Damage and PDR Basics of Hail Damage Pueblo’s location in the shadow of the Rockies provide the geography required for significant hail storms: nearby mountain ranges provide updrafts that collide violently with thunderstorms coming from the plains. It, along with the rest of “Hail Alley”, suffer the highest rate of hail and hail-related vehicle damage in all of North America. Since the precipitation is solid ice and falling from the sky, damage can be extensive for the average car, truck or SUV: dents, cracked paints and broken windows are common results. However, even small dents and damage can cause long-term effects: dents often affect the protective paint coating and can lead to rust. Larger hailstones can cause unseen body or frame damage that, left undetected, can cause drivability issues. Fixing Hail Damage with PDR Paintless dent repair refers to a collection of methods that auto body shop technicians use to reform a body panel after it has been struck by a hard object. There are many different tools that can be used, and they often vary in terms of how much bend can be applied, what material is used in the body panel, and so forth. For many dents and small body concerns, PDR can be an affordable option. When PDR Makes Sense for a Vehicle Dents are relatively small While sizing dents is usually done via estimation, roughly speaking, dents that are not visible until within a few feet of a vehicle surface are prime candidates. The paintwork is mostly or completely intact The most important criteria for most PDR shops is the condition of the paint and clear coat. Once the coat has been breached, it opens up the possibility for rusting and other damage, like from the harsh UV radiation that Pueblo gets. The dents do not form at critical bends or joints in the bodywork While a car or SUV’s body panel may be strong in the general sense, there are certain points that are weaker than others. Depending on the material used in construction and where the dent is on the panel, it may not be possible to use PDR without potentially damaging the panel. Using Traditional Methods for Hail Damage While PDR has skyrocketed in usage because of its ease of use, ability to be used on a variety of materials and generally lower cost, it is not the best solution for major damage or repairs that run the risk of damaging panels using PDR methods. In this case, it makes sense to work with a Pueblo autobody shop that has experience both with PDR techniques as well as body panel repairs and especially paintwork. When it comes to maintaining the integrity of the vehicle body, experienced technicians can ensure that cars not only look just as good as they did beforehand, but are equally protected from the harsh sun and other damaging elements of Pueblo’s climate. Hail Damage Insurance Basics Although specific agents of insurers throughout Pueblo, CO have significant experience with hail-specific damage, the area of a policy that covers what will and won’t be repaired, and for how much, falls under the comprehensive coverage section. This is important for several reasons: All states, including Colorado, require liability coverage to help defray the costs of treating injuries sustained in a car accident. These usually consist of three numbers separated by slashes like, $15,000/$30,000/$15,000. This also happens to be the minimum coverage required by Colorado law: up to $25,000 for any one person’s injuries, $50,000 for all injured parties and $15,000 for any property damage, including the vehicles involved. There is no legal requirement for vehicle policies to include collision coverage, but the majority of people obtain some form of it. After paying a deductible (usually ranging from $250-$750), the insurer agrees to pay for the remainder of the costs of repairing a vehicle involved in a collision. Since comprehensive coverage is optional, some people choose to either opt for higher deductibles to reduce costs or to go without comprehensive coverage completely for older vehicles. This choice substantially affects what the total out-of-pocket cost for hail damage repairs will be for a vehicle owner. As an example, take a driver who buys the minimum liability coverage, gets collision coverage with a $750 deductible and comprehensive coverage with a $750 deductible. Damage from a mild hailstorm might only cost $400 to fix. All of that must be paid for out of pocket. Filing a Hail Damage Insurance Claim No matter the scale of damage to your vehicle, the steps to take to ensure that your insurer will pay for as much of the repairs as possible is the same: Inspect Your Vehicle for Damage and Document with Photos/Video The most important step in ensuring a quick and painless claims process is documenting what a vehicle looks like prior to taking it in for repairs. Insurance companies may look for signs that damage occurred because of a prior collision, or whether the damage is old enough that it could have come from a previous event. Photos are usually the safe bet, but for PDR and hail insurance claims, video can help provide context, like where a specific dent is on a panel or in relation to the vehicle as a whole. Notify Your Insurer and Begin Filing a Comprehensive Claim Even if you are unsure which repair shop you plan on using, filing a claim as quickly as possible helps in several ways. One, it ensures that the evidence arrives as close to the date of the event as possible. It also reduces the likelihood that your claim will be held up for processing with similar ones in the case of a large storm affecting numerous vehicles. Schedule an Appointment with an Adjuster if not using a Preferred Repair Shop Insurance policy holders have the option of choosing any repair shop they want to use for hail damage and PDR services. If they decide to go out of network, it’s important to get an adjuster from your insurer who will set a max limit on what repair costs they will cover. Choose a Repair Shop (Preferred or Non-Preferred) While experience performing repairs is usually the number one consideration, working with a collision shop like Pro-Masters in Pueblo that is a preferred shop for many insurers can offer several benefits. They can expedite the process of submitting claims and working with adjusters, perform repairs that offer insurer-backed warranties and can even help with common needs like rental cars. Cost of Hail Damage Repair in Pueblo, CO Hail damage estimates are not a completely exact science. Generally speaking, however, adjusters and repair shops base their pricing on the following factors: Size of the dents in question – These can range anywhere from a fraction of an inch to several inches long, depending on the projectile size and material used in the body panel’s construction Level of repair required – Paintless dent repair, where the underlying clear coat and paint are not affected, is generally significantly cheaper. Paintless Dent Repair Costs Per Dent Costs: Small Dents: $30-45 Medium Dents: $45-55 Large Dents: Can range over $75 per impact Total Repair Costs Minor Damage: Fixing a couple small to medium size dents might only run a vehicle owner a few hundred dollars. Significant Damage: Extensive hail impacts that affect windows, panels made of specialized materials, etc. can range into the thousands of dollars to complete repairs. Traditional Dent Repair Costs For dent repair that also requires careful sanding, painting and the use of bonding materials, costs can increase significantly. They may range from $125 to more than $300 per dent, depending on the body material and several other factors. Learn More About PDR and Hail Damage Insurance Claims at Pro-Masters Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center has been serving Pueblo for more than 20 years. Not only are our technicians ASE- and ICAR-Gold certified to properly handle significant body damage, but we stay up to date with the latest in PDR options to save our neighbors time and money getting hail damage fixed. As a preferred shop for many insurers, we can offer low- or no-deductible hail damage repair to maximize out-of-pocket savings for our customers, and help save an appointment with the adjuster for many insurance companies. Learn more about your options and how we can help by calling us at  719-543-4393 

Your vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a space where you spend a significant amount of time. Whether you use your car for commuting, family trips, or weekend getaways, keeping its interior clean and well-maintained is essential. While routine vacuuming and wiping down surfaces can help, nothing compares to the benefits of professional interior auto detailing. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert auto detailing in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are five reasons why it's worth investing in interior detailing. Restore the Interior to Pristine Condition Over time, dirt, dust, and grime accumulate on your car’s seats, carpets, and dashboard. Professional interior detailing goes beyond basic cleaning, thoroughly removing embedded dirt, stains, and odors. Expert detailers use specialized tools and products to deep clean every surface, restoring the interior to a pristine condition. Improve Air Quality Inside the Vehicle Dust, pollen, pet hair, and other allergens can accumulate in your car’s upholstery, air vents, and carpeting, leading to poor air quality inside the cabin. Professional interior detailing includes cleaning and sanitizing the air vents, upholstery, and carpets, which helps reduce allergens and improve the overall air quality. This is especially important for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. Preserve Interior Materials The interior of your vehicle is exposed to various elements such as UV rays, spills, and regular wear and tear. These factors can cause the upholstery, dashboard, and other surfaces to fade or crack. Professional detailers apply high-quality protectants and conditioners to leather, vinyl, and plastic surfaces, helping to preserve and extend the life of your car’s interior materials. Eliminate Unpleasant Odors Spills, food, pet accidents, and moisture can lead to unpleasant odors inside your vehicle. Air fresheners might temporarily mask the smell, but professional interior detailing eliminates it at the source. Detailers use advanced techniques to remove odor-causing bacteria, leaving your car smelling fresh and clean. Enhance Resale Value A well-maintained interior can significantly boost your vehicle’s resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to pay a higher price for a car that looks and feels well cared for. Professional interior detailing demonstrates that your car has been properly maintained, giving you an edge when it’s time to sell or trade in your car. Auto Detailing in Pueblo, CO When you need auto detailing in Pueblo, CO and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Car rust might start as a small, seemingly harmless blemish, but ignoring it can lead to significant damage. Rust isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it can compromise your vehicle’s safety, performance, and value. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert car rust repair in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are five reasons why you should address car rust as soon as you spot it. Prevent Structural Damage Rust doesn’t stop spreading once it starts. Left unchecked, it can eat through metal, weakening critical structural components like the frame, floorboards, and suspension mounts. This can compromise your vehicle’s safety and make it less capable of withstanding impacts in an accident. Fixing rust early helps ensure your car remains structurally sound. Save Money on Repairs Rust spreads quickly, and the longer you wait, the more expensive the repair becomes. What might start as a simple job could escalate into needing panel replacements. Addressing rust at the first sign of trouble can save you from spending significantly more money in repair costs. Preserve Resale Value Rust significantly diminishes a car’s resale value. Potential buyers see rust as a red flag, signaling possible neglect or underlying mechanical issues. If you’re planning to sell your car in the future, fixing rust promptly can help maintain its value and make it more attractive to buyers. Protect Against Safety Risks Rust can compromise critical systems, such as brakes and exhaust components. Corroded brake lines, for instance, can fail and lead to dangerous situations on the road. Fixing rust as soon as it appears helps prevent these kinds of safety risks. Prevent Rust from Spreading Rust has a way of spreading like a disease. Once it starts, moisture can accelerate its progression, especially during harsh winters. By addressing rust early, you stop it in its tracks, protecting other parts of your vehicle from damage. Automotive Rust Repair in Pueblo, CO For auto body repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

A fresh paint job for your car can do wonders, even beyond simple aesthetic appeal. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision and Hail Center, we provide expert auto painting in Pueblo, CO. Here are four benefits of investing in a new paint job. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal One of the most obvious benefits of a fresh paint job is the improvement in your car's appearance. A new coat of paint can restore your vehicle's original shine, making it look brand new. This is particularly beneficial if your car has faded over time due to sun exposure, weather conditions, or minor scratches. Choosing a color that suits your style can also give your car a more personalized touch, making it stand out on the road. Increased Resale Value If you plan to sell or trade in your car, a fresh paint job can significantly boost its resale value. A well-maintained exterior can attract potential buyers and make your vehicle more appealing. Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a car that looks good and has been cared for, making a fresh paint job a smart investment if you're looking to maximize your return. Protection Against the Elements A quality paint job can provide an extra layer of protection against environmental elements that can damage your car's exterior. UV rays, rain, and dirt can all contribute to paint degradation and rusting. Modern automotive paints can help protect against fading, chipping, and corrosion. Improved Driving Experience/Personal Pride A car's exterior condition can affect more than just appearance—it can influence your overall driving experience. A fresh coat of paint can create a sense of pride and satisfaction every time you drive. Knowing that your car looks good can enhance your confidence on the road. Auto Painting in Pueblo and Denver, CO For auto painting in Pueblo, CO and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center. At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Keeping your vehicle free from cosmetic damage—like scratches, dents, and paint chipping—can make a huge difference in maintaining its beauty and value. But if your car does suffer any cosmetic damage, it’s important to fit it ASAP so rust doesn’t get the chance to take hold. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert auto body repair in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are five tips to help you prevent cosmetic damage to your car. Park Strategically Parking smartly is one of the easiest ways to prevent scratches, dings, and dents. Whenever possible, park in less crowded areas of parking lots, away from shopping carts and other vehicles. Opt for spots that are farther from entrances to minimize the chances of door dings. Also, avoid parking under trees where falling branches, sap, or bird droppings can damage your paint. Use a Car Cover When your car is parked outside for extended periods, it’s exposed to the elements that can cause damage to its exterior. Investing in a high-quality car cover provides protection against harsh weather conditions and debris, as well as accidental scratches. A car cover is especially helpful if you don’t have access to a garage or carport. Wash and Wax Regularly Regular washing and waxing help to maintain your car’s paint by removing contaminants such as dirt and bird droppings, which can wear down the paint. Washing your car at least every other week and applying a protective coat of wax every few months will keep your paint looking shiny and create a barrier against minor scratches. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Materials When cleaning your car, it’s important to use soft, non-abrasive materials to avoid scratching the surface. Opt for microfiber towels and car-specific cleaning products rather than household cleaners, which can be too harsh on your car’s finish. Be Cautious When Loading and Unloading Whether you’re packing for a road trip or loading groceries into your trunk, take care not to let items scrape against your car’s paint. It’s easy to accidentally cause a scratch while moving heavy or sharp objects in and out of the vehicle. To prevent damage, carefully load items without dragging them against the car’s surface. Auto Body Repair in Pueblo, CO For auto body repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Car wrecks are a serious concern on the road, and even the most experienced drivers can find themselves in risky situations. While you can’t control other drivers, you can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of an accident. Here are five tips from our Pueblo body shop about how to help prevent car wrecks. Stay Focused On Driving The leading cause of car wrecks is distracted driving. Whether it’s texting, calling, eating, or even daydreaming, distractions can take your attention off the road for crucial seconds. Always stay focused on driving and avoid multitasking. If you need to take a phone call, use hands-free options, and if you’re tired or distracted, it’s better to pull over safely. Always Follow the Speed Limit Speeding significantly increases your chances of being involved in a wreck. Speed limits are set based on road conditions, traffic patterns, and safety regulations to minimize risks. By driving within the speed limit, you have better control of your vehicle and more time to react to unexpected events, such as a car suddenly stopping or an obstacle appearing on the road. Maintain a Safe Following Distance Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end collisions. To prevent this, always maintain a safe following distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. A good rule of thumb is the “three-second rule”—you should be able to count at least three seconds from when the car ahead of you passes a landmark to when you reach the same point. Increase this distance in poor weather conditions or if you’re driving a larger vehicle. Keep Up with Vehicle Maintenance A well-maintained vehicle is safer to drive. Regularly check your tires for proper inflation and tread depth, ensure your brakes are working efficiently, and get your engine and fluids checked according to your manufacturer’s recommendations. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or engine problems can all lead to dangerous situations on the road. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions Weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, or fog can make driving significantly more dangerous. Adjust your driving habits based on the weather by reducing your speed and increasing your following distance. If the conditions are too dangerous, it’s best to wait until the weather improves before hitting the road. Collision Repair in Pueblo, CO When you need collision repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our local body shop, we can flawlessly fix your vehicle’s collision damage. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!