FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Q What should I do after an accident?
A 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 they have not provided one for you. 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.

Once your claim is reported to the insurance company, they will send out an adjuster to have your vehicle appraised for damages, they usually inform you of a time frame, anywhere from 24-72 hours. 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.

 

Q Are rental cars available if I need one?
A Yes! We offer discount rental cars through local car rental companies. We make an appointment for you and the rental company provides pickup and drop off. Most often, rental costs are covered through your claim with the insurance company.

 

Q Do I need three estimates?
A No. your only obligation is to choose the shop of your choice and inform the insurance company where the vehicle is going.

 

Q What should I do if my vehicle is totaled?
A The Insurance Company responsible for your claim will contact you and arrange for you to pick up your belongings and your tag. The body shop may require for the owner of the vehicle to sign a release form, authorizing the shop to release your vehicle to the insurance Company. The Insurance Company will then make arrangements with the shop to have the vehicle picked up. The Insurance should take care of any storage or tow charges that might be outstanding.

Remember, by this time, the Insurance Company has fulfilled its obligation and can at that time stop payment for rental car expenses. If your vehicle is totaled, and you are not satisfied with there decision, you may visit your local dealerships or go online and obtain information that substantiates your claim of what you believe your vehicle is worth.

 

Q What if an insurance company refuses to work with the shop of my choice?
A By law, an insurance company cannot refuse your request and must negotiate with the shop of your choice. It is in both parties' best interest to get your vehicle repaired and back to you as quickly as possible, without charging you extra.

 

Q Can the insurance company make me go to their claims center for an estimate?
A No. You can drop the vehicle off at the shop of your choice and they will schedule an insurance adjuster to come out to the body shop and appraise the vehicle for damages. They will provide the shop with a written estimate of repairs.

 

Q Who pays the tow bill?
A The Insurance Company responsible for paying your repairs is also responsible for paying the tow bill to the shop of your choice.