Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after an accident?
Get the name of the person(s) driving the other vehicle(s) involved along with their phone number, driver’s license, vehicle license, insurance information. Also try to obtain any witness’ name and number. Note the location, time and date. And, if you have a camera, take pictures. IMPORTANT: If the person(s) driving the vehicle(s) involved is unwilling to provide this information or if they do not have a driver’s license and insurance, then you have a problem, and you should notify the police and your insurance agent immediately.
Contact the shop of your choice and have them set up a tow or appointment to get your vehicle in the shop. If you need alternative transportation and have rental coverage or the other party’s insurance is paying the bill, ask the shop to set up the rental for you.
Contact the Insurance Company responsible and let them know where the vehicle is and/or where it is going and ask for a claim number. If the Insurance Company wants to examine your vehicle at your house or in their claims center, you have the choice of doing this, or you can inform the Insurance Company that you are dropping the vehicle at the shop of your choice and they can see the vehicle there. Remember, you’re free to choose.
Call the shop and give them the claim number. From this point on, the shop will negotiate on your behalf to insure that your vehicle will be returned to pre-loss condition.
Will my vehicle be the same?
Reputable shops have the kind of facility, equipment, personnel and training to restore your vehicle to pre-loss condition within industry standards. Experts can always find indications of a repair. This doesn’t mean it was not repaired properly, but since shops do not have the same equipment available that the manufacturer’s have, shops cannot replicate the manufacturer’s work exactly. However, your vehicle will be esthetically and structurally equal to its pre-accident condition.
What if my insurance company refuses to work with the shop of my choice?
Most body shops will negotiate for you to have your vehicle repaired to pre-loss condition. If you end up paying for the difference in the repair bill yourself, obtain a written statement from the body shop detailing any denied procedures and take your bill to Small Claim’s Court. You may have to file against the individual who caused the accident. We recommend consulting an attorney for specifics.
Have any other questions?
Please contact us and we will get them answered!
