What to Do After a Car Accident in Albuquerque

Nobody expects to get into a car accident. But in Albuquerque, with over 30,000 crashes reported in Bernalillo County each year, knowing what to do when it happens can save you a lot of headaches — and money.

Here is a step-by-step guide from the team at Duke City Body Rebuilders, who have been helping Albuquerque drivers recover from accidents for nearly 50 years.

1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries

First things first: take a breath. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if the accident seems minor, adrenaline can mask injuries — get checked out.

2. Move to Safety If Possible

If your vehicle is drivable and you are on a busy road like San Mateo, Menaul, or I-40, move to a safe spot nearby. Turn on your hazard lights. New Mexico law requires you to move your vehicle out of traffic if you can do so safely.

3. Call the Police

In New Mexico, you are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $500. Given the cost of vehicle repairs today, that covers almost every fender bender. An Albuquerque Police Department report will be critical for your insurance claim.

4. Document Everything

While you wait for the police, use your phone to document the scene:

1. Photos — damage to all vehicles, license plates, the overall scene, road conditions, traffic signs
2. Exchange info — name, phone, insurance company, policy number, driver license number
3. Witnesses — get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
4. Notes — write down what happened while it is fresh in your mind

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide the police report number and the other driver's information. Be factual — describe what happened without speculating about fault.

6. Choose YOUR Body Shop

This is the part most people do not know: you have the legal right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. Your insurance company might suggest their “preferred” shops, but you are not obligated to use them. Choose a shop you trust.

At Duke City Body Rebuilders, we work directly with every major insurance company. We handle the claims process, communicate with your adjuster, and make sure your repair is done right — not just done fast.

7. Get a Written Estimate

Before any work begins, get a detailed written estimate. A reputable shop will walk you through the damage, explain what needs to be repaired, and give you an honest assessment. We offer free estimates — no appointment needed. Just drive in.

The Bottom Line

Getting into an accident is never fun, but knowing the right steps protects you, your vehicle, and your wallet. And when it comes time to repair your vehicle, remember: you always have the choice of where it gets fixed.

Duke City Body Rebuilders has been restoring vehicles and trust in Albuquerque since 1977. If you have been in an accident, give us a call at (505) 265-9303 or stop by our shop at 418 Yale Blvd SE.