 | Richard Smith has been in the Auto Body Industry for 26 years. He is ASE Certified Master Collision Tech, an I-Car Platinum Tech, and an I-Car Instructor. He and His wife own and operate Sharp's Auto Body & Collision Inc. located at 202 North Elm St. in Pittsburg, Kansas. He is a father of 5 children, Ex Military E-6 Staff SGT. and is active in his home Church. The one thing he enjoys doing is educating the public about the safety and proper repair of automobiles, no matter if it is a vehicle that has been in a collision, a small dent, or a complete restoration. The shop is always equipped with a skilled professional to handle your auto needs. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2010-09-01 10:18:00
Auto body repair
Question: I recently went through the nightmare of getting my car repaired after an accident. There should be a place one can go to find out the real scoop on what to do and what to be prepared for. Can you do this? For instance, someone needs to tell people where to get a claim number. How long it should it take to repair a vehicle. If it can be taken to whatever shop. And, if more than one estimate is required.
Answer: Okay, let’s take them one at a time.
Where do I get a claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by the insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just write the claim number down and bring it in with you to the business you are going to have provide you with an estimate or the actual work being done. If you need assistance in obtaining a claim number, the business should be happy to assist you.
How long will the repairs to your vehicle take?
Quality repairs begin with a detailed written estimate. Trained estimators make a practice of anticipating problems before they arise. However, damage is often hidden and cannot be discovered until your vehicle has been disassembled. If this happens, your vehicle’s completion date may need to be revised. The good shops will keep you informed throughout the repair process and will always attempt to return your vehicle to you as quickly as possible without compromising the quality of the repairs.
Can you take your vehicle where you want to have it repaired?
Yes. As the owner of the vehicle, you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. Most insurance companies have shops they work with on a regular basis and receive a discounted rate. You do not have to agree to work with the shop the insurance company recommends even if the insurance company says it will cost you extra if you take the vehicle somewhere else. Rest assured, the good shops will guarantee there will be no additional charge to you as they work with all major insurance companies.
Do you have to get more than one estimate?
No. There is no law in the state that says you have to get more than one estimate. If an insurance company asks you to get more than one, explain to them that you would prefer to work with the business you have chosen. If they still need more than one estimate, they can have one of their own appraisers take a look at your vehicle. All this should be done at your convenience and choice of location either your work, home or at the location of the shop you would like to use. If the insurance company gives you an estimate, your vehicle should be repaired according to their approved estimate and the business should contact them directly if any additional supplements are needed.
More next month...
