Collision - Things to make sure

That sucks, make sure they replace that driver's side wheel. Have them verify that there is no suspension damage from the impact to the wheel, and check the alignment.

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Take a very good look for less obvious spots of damage. Photograph all the damaged parts so you'll have that to go back to when the shop says it's ready for you. Take an extensive test drive before you accept it back. It'll need an alignment check, and on your test drive try for a straight level road where you can take your hands off the steering wheel briefly. It the car doesn't continue straight, the alignment isn't correct, perhaps due to bent parts they should have changed. Look at the earlier posting about front wheel bearing noise--listen for that both driving straight and turning both directions. Your car should look like new and drive like new.

 

when it gets to the body shop, tell them you want to see it after they pull the damaged panels off and discuss what hidden damage they find. usually the insco takes a look at that point

 

We took ours to a Toyota collision center. No squawks from insurance. Looks like a new car now.

 

Since this the Advanced/Limited trim, you need to take it to a Toyota dealer because other shops will be clueless on how to recalibrate your parking sensors and radars.

Incidentally, it could cost more than $1,000 to recalibrate the parking sensors alone. However, insurance companies negotiate it to half the price. Simply have this done through an insurance company at a Toyota dealer and don't worry about the rest. If it is a hit-and-run, you will need to pay your deductible. Moreover, these repairs take a very long time, and you will need a rental car for perhaps about a couple of months.

 

Check to see if the body shop replaces the front wheel bearing and strut assembly. I can't tell from the picture, if the rear wheel took a hit. Wheel bearings take a while, before you notice there's a problem. Minor damage turns into grinding noises a few thousand miles down the road.