FAQ’s
AM I REQUIRED TO OBTAIN MORE THAN ONE ESTIMATE?
DO I HAVE TO GO TO A SPECIFIC REPAIR SHOP?
ARE DIFFERENCES IN ESTIMATES COMMON?
DO I HAVE TO ACCEPT MY INSURANCE COMPANY’S APPRAISAL OF DAMAGE?
READ THE AUTO BODY CONSUMER BILL OF RIGHTS
WHAT IS A DIRECT REPAIR SHOP?
A direct repair facility is a body shop that works directly with your insurance company as a preferred shop. Body shops earn the right to be in preferred shop programs by meeting certain requirements, such as having certified technicians, using the proper equipment, and having a record of satisfied customers. A preferred shop actually writes the estimate, orders the parts, and repairs your vehicle without having to wait for an insurance adjuster.
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AM I REQUIRED TO OBTAIN MORE THAN ONE ESTIMATE?
You are NOT required by law to obtain more than 1 estimate or appraisal.
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DO I HAVE TO GO TO A SPECIFIC REPAIR SHOP?
No, you have the right to go to the repair shop of your choice.
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ARE DIFFERENCES IN ESTIMATES COMMON?
Yes, differences in estimates are common. If you are unsure of why one estimate is different than another, just ask.
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DO I HAVE TO ACCEPT MY INSURANCE COMPANY’S APPRAISAL OF DAMAGE?
No, you do not have to accept their appraisal of damage. Check the “appraisal clause” in your policy to resolve any differences.
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HELPFUL HINTS
- Make sure to collect the necessary information at the time of the accident (see our accident form)
- Do not open your hood after an accident. The steam and liquid spray could be harmful. Also, it is often difficult to close the hood after an accident once it has been opened.
