Get the name of the person(s) driving the other vehicle(s) involved along with their phone number, driver's license, vehicle license, insurance information. Also try to obtain any witness' name and number. Note the location, time and date. And, if you have a camera, take pictures.
Contact the repair facility of your choice and have them set up a tow or appointment to get your vehicle in the shop. If you need alternative transportation, ask the shop to set up the rental for you.
Contact the Insurance Company responsible and let them know where the vehicle is and/or where it is going and ask for a claim number. If the Insurance Company wants to examine your vehicle at your house or in their claims center, you have the choice of doing this, or you can inform the Insurance Company that you are dropping the vehicle at the shop of your choice and they can see the vehicle there.
Call the shop and give them the claim number. From this point on, the shop will negotiate on your behalf to insure that your vehicle will be returned to pre-loss condition.
No. You are free to get as many estimates as you desire, but it is not necessary. Your only obligation is to choose the shop of your choice and inform the insurance company.
Insurance carriers provide their customers with a list of DRP's - Direct Repair Providers. The list of DRP shops must meet certain standards that an insurance company requires of their repair facilities. Kevin Ball Auto Body is on most lists as a choice for your collision repair needs.
Referrals from other satisfied customers or insurance companies. Evidence of employee training and certification through accredited industry standards, such as I-CAR. Repair shops who guarantee their work with a lifetime warranty.
If your insurance company refers you to Kevin Ball Auto Body, you have a choice to have your vehicle repaired with us or elsewhere. A referral means that we have a strong working relationship with the insurance company and have achieved exceptional levels of customer satisfaction.
Unfortunately, you are responsible. Your insurance policy contract states that your insurance company will pay for the damages to your vehicle, less the deductible amount. You may instruct your insurance company to pay directly to the repair shop of your choice, however, full payment must be arranged prior to your vehicle being picked up.
Check with your insurance company if you have rental coverage. You must specify to your agent when getting coverage. All claimants should have rental coverage thru the other parties insurance.
Review your itemized final bill. Walk around the vehicle with your service advisor and have him show you all repairs performed. Look at the paint finish, exterior trim, and all details. Choose a shop where satisfaction is guaranteed before any payment is made.
