The collision repair process can sometimes feel as stressful as the accident itself. Being without your car when you have to get to work or pick the kids up from school can overwhelm anyone. One good way to reduce the level of stress is to familiarize yourself with the right steps for auto repair and then follow through.
1. Document the Damage
Ideally, you took photos of the damage at the scene of the accident. Even if you didn’t, it’s not too late to do so. Your insurance company might ask you to send photos of the damage at any point in the claims process. The last thing you want is to be bombarded with requests like these when you are not near the vehicle.
2. Seek Professional Assistance
You can hardly turn the radio on these days without hearing jingles for local law firms wanting to help car crash victims navigate the insurance minefield. If you suffered personal injuries, speaking with an attorney is a good idea. For matters related to insurance coverage of vehicle repairs, some shops have in-house teams that can handle the claims process on your behalf. These teams can also liaise with your personal injury attorney.
3. Determine Body Shop Relationship
The insurance company and the policy details determine how drivers choose body shops for collision repairs. Insurance companies will either want a direct or preferred shop. However, drivers have the final say about where they get their vehicles fixed. The body shop should be able to tell you if it has a direct or preferred relationship with your insurance company. The insurance company can also confirm.
4. Get an Estimate
Drivers often believe they need as many as three estimates. Insurance companies might even request this. However, in most cases, they only need to honor a request for one. Estimates are especially important in cases where the driver chooses an out-of-network shop. This is also when the insurance company might try to push for multiple estimates.
5. Ask About Warranties
People often sell their vehicles after a crash, even if they fix it. Some say their vehicles just never feel the same again. They might also experience paranoia that something could break. To give customers peace of mind, reputable shops provide lifetime warranties on all work completed, whether they are direct or preferred repair shops or not.
6. Drop Off the Vehicle
In the best-case scenario, the vehicle is drivable. If not, you may need to get the vehicle towed to the location. Some shops have the resources or connections to help you coordinate this. They might also be able to ensure you get a rental car at the insurance company’s expense when you leave. This may depend on the extent of the damage and the insurance policy provisions.
Choosing the right company for automotive collision repair in Clairton and Jefferson Hills can get you back behind the wheel in no time. At Tachoir Collision Center, we are eager to handle the claims process on your behalf, so you can focus on getting back to your regular life. Schedule an appointment today.
