Know Your Rights
How Do I Choose A Collision Repair Facility?
As the owner of a motor vehicle involved in an accident or submitting an insurance claim, you have the right to choose the shop where you wish to have your vehicle repaired. No law requires you to get more than one estimate, nor are you obligated to have your vehicle repaired at the “cheapest” shop or one “preferred” by the insurance company. You should select a repair facility based on their skill, service, knowledge, reputation and guarantee of their workmanship.
Remember, the body shop is fixing YOUR vehicle for YOU. If you’re making an insurance claim, the insurer pays the bill, but most states prohibit the insurer from requiring you to use a particular shop — that means, ultimately, no matter what you hear, THE BODY SHOP IS YOUR CHOICE.
What Is A DRP Body Shop?
Direct Repair Program (DRP) is another name for an insurance company’s listing of shops, such as: State Farm’s “Service First”, Allstate’s “PRO”, Progressive’s “Total Pro or Concierge”, etc. DRP repair facilities have been solicited by the insurance company which sends customers their way in exchange for discounted repairs, such as lower labor rates or parts discounts. The consumer is not required or obligated to use a DRP repair facility.
Automotive Specialties made a decision many years ago to decline any DRP contracts which allows us to work WITH all insurance companies but work FOR our customer.
Must I Notify My Insurance Company Before Repairs?
Yes, insurance policies require that you notify the company and tell them where the damaged vehicle may be inspected. The insurance company may wish to send an adjustor of their choice to inspect the vehicle or review the shop’s estimate prior to repair.
Who Pays The Repair Bill?
You must arrange for payment. Your insurance policy states the insurance company will pay for repairs less any deductibles or depreciation.
What If Repair Costs Exceed The Original Estimate?
Often times in the collision repair process additional damages are found resulting in more labor and parts needed to restore the vehicle to pre-accident condition. Parts sometimes come in at higher prices than quoted. These additional charges are called a supplement and will be covered by the insurance company with supporting paperwork from the repair facility.
If There Is A Problem With The Repair Job, Who Should You Contact?
First, contact the manager of the repair shop. If your problem is not resolved, contact your insurance company claims manager.
Tune-Up Tips
They always say a little maintenance can go a long way. With a regular tune-up on your car, you could be saving yourself time and money. How much do you know about car maintenance? Test your knowledge and learn a few tips on the benefits of getting your car a regular tune-up below!
Benefits of Regular Car Maintenance
- Extends Gas Mileage: From an oil change to checking the wear and tear of your tires, regular car maintenance will extend your gas mileage. Dirty oil over time will decrease your car’s gas mileage, making you not get the best bang for your buck. Less oil means more amount of work for your car and this creates less fuel. Get an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles to ensure peak gas mileage.
- Long-Term Use: Your vehicle’s value and overall appearance will remain at peak performance, saving you from getting a new car. If you’re not looking to get a new car anytime soon, you may want to consider getting a tune-up on your car!
- Saves You Money: Most importantly, you will save money in the long-run with a regular tune-up. Whether it’s gas or getting new tires, a regular tune-up will ensure you of a quality, safe, car. Ignoring regular maintenance could result in engine failure or injury if the car isn’t safely equipped.
Get your car a tune-up today at Automotive Specialties. Every 30,000, 60,000 or 90,000 miles is around the time you should get your car maintenance. Like going to the doctor for your yearly check-up, car maintenance is important to your time, money, and safety! Whether you require auto body repair after a collision or mechanical service on your vehicle, we have what it takes. We work on all models of cars and trucks, both foreign and domestic. Visit our website or call us at (630) 553-0397. We look forward to serving your automotive needs.
