– Must I obtain three estimates?

Answer: Generally, no. Unless your policy states otherwise, no one can tell you to obtain more than one estimate. You, as the car owner, may do so, should this be your desire.

– I was told that I must take my car to a certain repair shop. Must I do this?

– Answer: Generally, no. No one can force you to go to a certain repair shop unless your policy states otherwise.

– What is the best procedure for me to get quality repairs and quickly get my vehicle back on the road?

Answer: Take your vehicle to a reputable repair shop. Leave it with the manager. Instruct the manager to contact your insurance company and advise them as to the damage. You should then call your insurance company and advise them of the vehicle’s location.

– I don’t believe I was at fault in the accident. Should I use my own collision policy or try to collect from the other party?

Answer: Try to collect from the other party because you will not have to pay a deductible. Also, if you use the other person’s policy, you may be entitled to a rental car while yours is being repaired, and no accident should be charged against your policy.

– Who is responsible to the repair shop for my repair bill – the insurance company or me?

Answer: You are. You may direct your insurance company to pay the repair shop, but the payment must be in the hands of the repair agency when you pick up your vehicle. Keep in mind, you are the customer and the insured. The repair shop owner looks to you for payment and you look to the insurance company for payment.

– Who is responsible for the safety, workmanship and guarantee of my auto repairs – insurance company or repair shop?

Answer: Generally, the repair shop is responsible.

– I am sure that the other driver is at fault, but no one has made any effort to see to the repairs of my auto. What can I do?

Answer: You are the owner of the automobile. Only you have the legal right to make arrangements for the repair of your automobile, not the insurance company.

– Do I have to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims service?

Answer: Generally, no. Unless your policy provides 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 the vehicle can be examined by a claims person.

– If I go to a drive-in claims service, do I have to take the car
to its preferred shop?

Answer: Generally, no. However, if you decide to take your car to the preferred shop, ask your insurance company to implement its “elects to repair” clause (check your insurance policy). This may cause the insurance company to be responsible for, among other things, the quality of repairs.

– I am having a problem with the insurance company. Can the state insurance commissioner’s office help me?

Answer: Perhaps, yes, but the commissioner’s authority is limited! The commissioner’s office in your state can describe the scope of authority for you.

– Can the insurance company and service shop make an adjustment and start repair on the auto without the owner’s consent?

Answer: Generally, no. You should be presented an estimate to know what is being repaired on your vehicle before repairs are made, unless your policy states otherwise.

A Final Word…

Most state laws make it unlawful for any person to operate any motor vehicle that is unsafe or has defective equipment. Insist on having your vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition. Do not be pressured into having repair work done by a specific shop simply because of lower price.

– Who was at fault?
– Will my car ever be right again?
– What are my rights and responsibilities?

A calm and informed reaction to an accident will reduce your chances for additional grief and expense.

Move your vehicle to a safe place, then stop and identify yourself to the other driver. (Some state or local statutes may require the vehicle be left as is.) If it can’t be moved, turn on the hazard lights. Seek medical help if you or other parties require it, and notify the police. Tell them who you are, where you are, and about any obvious or claimed injuries.

Exchange information with the other driver(s) including driver’s license numbers. Get the driver’s name, address,telephone numbers and name of insurance company. Also, list any passengers and witnesses.

Get names and badge numbers of any police officers who arrive at the scene. If there are injuries or extensive damage, the police should file a report. Ask to get a copy.

Avoid any extensive discussions at the scene about who is responsible for damage. If the other person admits responsibility, offers a money settlement and you accept, any future claim against the driver may be compromised. You or the other party may later find damage and bodily injury not apparent at first.

Write a complete description of the accident as soon as possible. Include weather conditions, estimated speeds, and as much precise information as you can observe. Take photographs if a camera is available.

Have the vehicle towed or driven to a collision repair facility of your choice.

Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible.

– Always consult your owner’s manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

– Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.

– Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.

– Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged or restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.

– Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle’s suspension system. (This mostly applies to trucks)

– Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is low, except in the case of maintenance-free batteries.

– Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and tail lights.

– Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.

– Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.

– Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

Always consult the vehicle owner’s manual for individual service schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.