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Choice of Repair Shops

Your car is the second largest investment you're likely to make. Assure the safety of your family and preserve the value of your investment by having it repaired correctly.

The average vehicle owner doesn't understand their most important role in the collision repair process -- their selection of a repair shop. For this reason, they often fall victim to incorrect information, confusing claims processes and sometimes just plain wrong advice.


Do I have the right to choose the shop that will repair my car?

Absolutely. There is no law or moral standard says you must have your vehicle repaired at the "cheapest" shop or one "preferred" by the insurance company because of a special relationship they may have with these shops. You should select a repair facility based on their skill, service, knowledge, reputation and guarantee of their workmanship.

Do I need to get two or three estimates?

No. Notify the insurance company responsible, because their adjuster may need to inspect the damage. If your car is safe to drive and the insurance company has a drive-in claims service, you should call them for an appointment and take your car there for inspection. Be certain to get a copy of the insurance adjuster's estimate. After your claims center appointment, take the estimate and your vehicle to the shop of your choice.

If you are unable to take your vehicle to the drive-in claims center, you can leave your car at our shop and advise the insurance company to inspect the car at our location.

Some insurance agents may tell you to "get two or three estimates." Talk to the insurance claims office first. Generally claims are handled by insurance claims departments, not agents.

Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include operations necessary to assure a long-lasting repair. If you choose to obtain estimates and unable to tell the differences between them, please ask us. We'll show you the differences in black and white, and explain how it relates to the repair quality.

Do not get an estimate from a shop you would not want to repair your vehicle.


Common Problems You Must Be Aware Of

We have identified the most common problems consumers face after an auto accident and tossed into the unknown territory of insurance claims practices.

Problem #1: Understanding Your Policy

Most folks think their insurance company will take care of everything only to discover "problems" when it comes claim time. Often their policy gives their insurance company permission to use imitation parts. Avoid this problem by reading and understanding your policy before you have a claim.

Call your agent and ask to have it reviewed with you. Contact us with your questions. We've likely dealt with your company and familiar with their claims practices. There are a number of excellent insurance companies and agents that settle claims quickly and fairly, with their client's concerns and safety in mind.

Problem #2: Making Decisions on Your Vehicle Repair

Most people are not prepared for an accident and quickly "forced" into making quick decisions regarding their vehicle repair. If you were involved in a collision right now, would you know what needs to be done, or would you rely on your insurance agent to handle all the details?

Become educated in the claims process. Know your rights. The safety of your family and resale value of your vehicle depends upon the choices you make at this critical time.

Please call or e-mail us with any questions you may have. We'll be glad to answer them and help you be better prepared in the event an accident occurs.

Problem #3: Allowing The Insurance Company to Make Your Decisions

After an accident, many incorrectly assume the insurance company "calls the shots" when it come to the repair of their vehicle.

Just because the insurance company is "paying the bill" doesn't give them the right to select the repair shop and dictate repair quality. Always remember: it's your car, and your choice. You've paid your premiums; it's the insurance company's job to fulfill their obligations under your policy. When it comes to the repair of your vehicle, you make the decisions .

Read your policy. Be certain you haven't signed anything that confines the decisions you need to make to protect your investment. Contact us if you would like to know which insurance companies settle your claims without hassle, and which ones routinely shortcut repairs and attempt to steer you to shops on "their list."


Facts You Must Know

Must I notify my insurance company before beginning repairs?

Yes. Insurance policies require you notify the company or your agent, provide them with details about the accident, and advise them where the vehicle may be inspected. Never drive a car that could be unsafe because of damages from an accident.

Who is responsible for the repair bills?

You are ultimately responsible for payment. Your insurance policy states the insurance company will pay you for amount of the repair work, less your deductible.

Who is responsible for the quality of the repair to my vehicle?

The repair shop
. This is why it's vitally important you select a repair facility that is trained and equipped to restore your automobile to "pre-accident" condition, and in the best interest of the vehicle owner.

If there is a problem with the repairs, who should I contact?

First, the manager of the repair shop. If your problem isn't rectified, contact the insurance company's local claims manager or district supervisor. You may also want to notify the Office of Consumer Protection and the Better Business Bureau.

What if my insurance company refuses to pay for the proper repair to my vehicle?

If it is your insurance company, contact your insurance agent first. If they do not assist you, contact the branch or regional claims manager of the insurance company. If your efforts fail, contact the  Superintendent of Insurance.

Let us help you settle your auto repair claim with the
insurance company. We work for you!

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Arbitration Appraisals
8410-182 Street Edmonton Alberta Canada, T5T 1Y7
(780) 413-1815

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