Getting your vehicle repaired after an accident is stressful enough without not knowing what you can and can’t do to get it fixed. Here at Hopkins County Collision, we wanted to give you a few facts and correct a few not-so-factual ideas about automotive repair.
Can my insurance require that I only have aftermarket parts on my vehicle or can I get original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts?
Normally, insurance companies want to complete your job in a cost-effective manner which may include aftermarket parts. These parts do not come directly from the manufacturer such as Ford, Nissan or GMC. However, there are some insurance policies that will allow the policy holder to pay extra each month to guarantee only OEM parts are used in the event of an accident.
Can my insurance company choose my body shop?
No insurance company can require you to choose a certain body shop to repair your vehicle. Many of them have direct repair program relationships with certain repair shops that meet a set of guidelines set by the insurance company. This doesn’t mean that other body shops don’t meet those guidelines, but these are shops the insurance company has chosen to work with.
Your insurance company can recommend a body shop for repairs, but they cannot require that you use that shop. Choosing another shop will not delay or change your repairs. This is the biggest falsehood we hear at our shop. It is your vehicle. It is your choice.
Collision repair is going to cause a disruption in my schedule and guarantees a fight to get it done the right way.
At Hopkins County Collision, we do our best to make your repairs fit into your schedule. We are here for drop offs and pickups between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or by appointment. We also have a key dropbox for afterhours drop offs.
While some shops many leave you to challenge insurance companies to get your full repair paid for, we will fight for you to get everything your policy covers.
Am I required to get multiple estimates?
You are not required to get more than one repair estimate. We offer free estimates on your time schedule. We also allow for drop offs at the time of your estimate, and we’ll even give you a ride if you need it! Why spend your day traveling to multiple repair shops when you can get it all done at once with us?
My insurance company will cover all my repairs.
Your insurance policy will list exactly what is covered in the event of an accident. Make sure to communicate with your insurance adjuster about what is and is not covered. You don’t want to come pick up your vehicle to find out you still owe a $500 deductible.
I must take my vehicle to a dealership because they are the only one who can get new parts.
Auto body repair shops have relationships with dealership parts departments and can purchase new parts whenever needed. At Hopkins County Collision, we have a great relationships with dealerships throughout the tri-state, and we can normally receive parts within a day.
Well, i absolutely take it to the junkyard but if the damage is excess and repair is out of my budget the i prefer sell it to the junk car company.