No matter how minor, it is wise to report every accident to the police. Then, contact the registered collision repair shop of your choice. Your independent repair shop can assist you with the processing of your claim, answer your questions, and advise you to ensure safe and proper repairs are made to your vehicle.
No. If you request it, your insurer must inspect the damage to your vehicle at your chosen collision repair shop rather than at their drive-in claims center or sending their mobile adjuster to you. They are legally prohibited from coercing or using any steering tactics intended to prevent you from seeking damage estimates from your own body shop rather than their drive-in facility. Allowing them to send their adjuster to you or going to their drive in claims center will give them the chance to prepare a cut rate estimate utilizing inferior parts in the absence of YOUR estimator. NOTE: It is not possible to write an accurate estimate at a "Drive-Through" estimating station - All vehicles must be dismantled (Torn-Down) to accurately determine the exact extent of damage inflicted to a vehicle. DO NOT let them intimidate you. We know your rights and have your best interest at heart. The Insurers are required by LAW to do the estimate at the shop of YOUR choice and pay for a QUALITY repair.
No. In California, you have the absolute right to select the collision repair shop of your choice. When your insurer gives you a list of registered repair shops, they likely will have indicated those shops which have entered into a contract with them. The contract determines how your vehicle will be repaired and encourages the use of imitation replacement parts. By choosing an insurance preferred or referral shop, you may be giving up your rights in the repair process.
There are compelling reasons to choose an independent, trusted repair shop that you know will make sure the vehicle is truly restored to its pre-accident condition. Insurance appraisers work for the insurance company. Independent auto collision repair facilities work for you. They are looking out for your best interest. They will negotiate directly with the insurance company for the proper repairs so that your vehicle is safe for you and your family. Independent collision repairers look out for your interests and will serve as your advocate in the repair process.
"Insurance DRP Shops" also known as "Preferred Repair Shops" represent the insurance company in both negotiations and the repair of the vehicle. They contract with insurance companies regarding the repairs, the rates and the repair procedures. The insurance company sets the rules for the repair process and the repair shop simply follows them. The associated discounts and cost reductions have to come from somewhere. Often the savings are as a result of using alternative Non-OEM Parts that are simply an knock-off part that is inferior to factory parts - New or used. These parts may affect the quality, safety and thoroughness of the repair service. You have paid your insurance premiums with the expectation of receiving safe and proper repairs , not cheap unsafe repairs.
Imitation parts (aka generic, aftermarket, quality replacement or non-original equipment manufacturer) are knockoff parts made by a company other than the manufacturer of your vehicle. These parts are made to look like your original vehicle parts, but may never have been crash tested and are not covered under your vehicle manufacturer warranty. In its February 1999 issue Consumer Reports, published the results of its extensive study of non-OEM parts. The cover story was entitled, Shoddy Auto Parts: How to beat car repair rip-offs, Bumpers that shatter, Parts that do not fit. Fenders that rust.
In addition to these concerns, there are no provisions for recalls based on the safety or performance of these parts. Your insurance company may attempt to use imitation parts to save money on your vehicle repairs. An independent collision repair facility will help you negotiate with your insurance company for the appropriate original equipment manufacturer parts to maintain the integrity and value of your vehicle. We have Manufacturers parts matching programs to help provide many Factory OEM parts for your repair at no extra cost to you.
The repair facility is responsible for the workmanship. Insurance companies do not repair automobiles. If there is a concern, even with a facility selected by the insurance company, the facility itself is responsible. Every collision repair shop registered as a Motor Vehicle Repair Shop with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair and is responsible for safe and proper repairs. If your insurance company claims they will not guarantee the repairs do NOT worry. The repair facility must and will willing support their repairs with a "Lifetime Warranty On All Labor Repairs" for as long as you own the vehicle, as required by law.
All information provided is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute a legal contract between Raffi Auto Body Inc and any person or entity unless otherwise specified. Information is subject to change without prior notice. Although every reasonable effort is made to present current and accurate information, LinkNow!™ Media makes no guarantees of any kind.
