+ Getting an Estimate:

Many people are under the false belief they MUST get several estimates of repair. Generally, this is not true. Unless your policy states otherwise, no one can tell you to obtain more than one estimate. You, as the car owner, have the option to do so if you wish.

+ Choosing a Repair Shop:

It’s your car and you can choose where you want to have it repaired. Unless your policy states otherwise, choose a repair shop that you trust and wish to do business with. No matter where your car is repaired, you are entitled to proper repairs from the shop and the proper compensation from the insurer. Choose a shop carefully, make sure they have the proper repair equipment and their staff technicians are certified. Industry accepted are I-CAR and ASE.

+ After the Accident:

Take your vehicle to the repair shop of your choice. Give the owner/manager your insurance information and ask them to call your insurance company and advise them as to the damage. You should also contact your insurance company and advise them where the vehicle is location.

+ Whose Fault and Who Pays:

Generally, if the accident is your fault, your insurance will cover you, your vehicle and the other party and their vehicle. If it wasn’t your fault, the other parties’ insurance company should cover you and your vehicle; so, try to collect from the other party because you will not have to pay a deductible. Remember that if you use the other person’s policy, you could be entitled to a rental car. In addition, if the accident was not your fault, it should not be charged against your policy.

+ Paying for the Repairs:

Remember that you are the insured and own the car and are ultimately responsible for paying the repair bill. You may wish to direct your insurance company to pay the repair shop directly, but the payment must be in the hands of the repair agency when you pick up your vehicle. The repair shop owner will look to you for payment and you should look to the insurance company for payment.

+ Guaranteeing the Work:

Generally, the repair shop is responsible for any guarantees of workmanship. Another reason to choose your repair facility wisely. Request a copy of the “Written Warranty” including labor, materials, parts and paint, Do Not accept less than one year on workmanship and in most cases three to five years on paint!

+ Getting Repairs Done:

Sometimes, the party at fault insurance company is slow to act in getting your vehicle repaired. Remember that you are the owner of the automobile and only you have the legal right to make arrangements for the repair of your automobile, not the insurance company.

+ Drive-in Claims Service:

Unless your policy states otherwise, it is not mandatory to take your vehicle to a drive-in claims service. Usually it will suffice for you to call your insurance company and tell them where a claims person can examine the vehicle.

+ Insurance Company Preferred Shops:

Generally, you do not have to use your Insurance Company’s preferred shop. If you decide to use their preferred shop, ask if your policy contains an “elects to repair” clause. This could cause your insurance company to be responsible for the quality of repairs and a host of other items.

+ State Insurance Commissioner:

If you’re having a problem with the insurance company, the Georgia state insurance commissioner’s office may be of some help. But the commissioner’s authority is limited. Contact the commissioner’s office so they can describe the scope of their authority.

+ Giving Permission to Begin Work:

Only you, the owner, can authorize repairs on your vehicle. You should be presented an estimate to know what is being repaired on your vehicle before repairs are made, unless your policy states otherwise.