Know your rights.
Know what you are allowed to do when it comes to fixing your ride.
Getting your vehicle repaired
After submitting your claim to your insurance company, you must get an estimate done on the car to know how much it will cost. The estimate should contain what repairs are being done, whether parts are being repaired or replaced, whether new or second-hand parts are being used, whether parts from the original manufacturer or generic parts are being used
Choosing an auto-body shop
You have the right to have your vehicle’s damage estimated and repaired at the auto body shop of your choice. An insurance company cannot require that your vehicle be repaired at a specific repair shop. However, an insurance company can recommend that the damage be estimated and repaired at a specific repair shop. When you select the shop, the responsibility for a satisfactory repair job rests with you, not the insurer. Choose an auto-body shop with some kind of good reputation.
Resolving disagreements
If the amount of damage to your vehicle is being disputed, or other disagreements arise over your vehicle’s repair, A 3-member group will resolve the dispute. You choose an appraiser, your insurance company chooses one, and the 2 appraisers appoint an umpire. An appraiser can be anyone either party considers to be qualified to present its side of the dispute. Each side pays for its own appraiser and half the cost of the umpire. The decision of any 2 of these 3 people is binding.
Dealing with the other driver's insurance company
You may claim under your own collision coverage. Your company will pay your claim, then deal with the other insurance company. Be sure to ask if your premium will be affected if you claim on your own policy. With this option, you may have to pay your deductible up front, but you can attempt to recover it from the other insurance company or the other driver. When you claim on your own policy, the appraisal process is available to you.
