Helpful Tips For Having Auto Body Collision Repairs Done When It's Covered By Insurance

If you only have liability insurance on your vehicle, then you will be the one who is on the hook to pay for vehicle repairs if you get into an accident that is your fault. If you have full coverage insurance, though, or if the accident was not your fault, then the repairs that your vehicle needs should be covered by either your insurance company or the other driver's insurance company. If it's time to have auto body collision repairs done that will be covered by insurance, make sure that you're aware of the following things:

Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away

If you've been involved in a car accident and have not yet let your insurance company know about it, now is the time to contact your insurance company. The sooner that you file a claim with them, the sooner you will probably be able to have collision repair done to your vehicle. The insurance company might ask you a few questions and send someone out to take a look at your vehicle to assess the damage, so make sure that you cooperate during these processes to avoid any issues and delays.

Make Sure Your Vehicle Isn't Totaled

Be aware that insurance companies don't always pay for cars to be repaired. If the amount that it will cost to have your vehicle repaired is higher than the value of your vehicle, for example, then the insurance company might declare it a total loss. If this happens, then the insurance company will pay you or your lender the amount that the car was worth before the accident. Then you will need to look for another car.

Pick the Right Auto Body Collision Repair Shop

When it's time to have your vehicle repaired, you'll want to choose the right auto body collision repair shop. You'll want to be sure that they will do a good job on your car, and you'll also want to be sure that the insurance company will pay for their work. Choose a shop that will work directly with your insurance company, if at all possible.

Ask About a Rental or Loaner Vehicle

Depending on the insurance coverage that you have, you might be able to rent a vehicle and have it covered by your insurance while you are waiting for your vehicle to be repaired. The shop that is repairing your vehicle might also provide you with a loaner vehicle. Make sure to ask about these things so that you can have a vehicle to get around on while your car is being fixed.

Contact a local auto body collision repair shop to learn more.