Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we will do the rest.
Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle’s parts at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later unless your vehicle is found unsafe to drive. Then we would help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.
No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company’s determined value of your vehicle. Nowadays, most cars are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of the-art computer measuring system, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.
Today’s modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. We have made a major investment in the finest paint system available and constantly upgrade its technology and equipment to ensure that each vehicle’s paint matches. We take special pride in our ability to match factory finishes as the final step in the restoration process.
If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy or if you are the claimant. Check your policy and/or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what your specific limitations are.
You will be notified when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. You can also check this website. You will see a message next to the last picture of your vehicle telling you that your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Feel free to call or e-mail your advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.
Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 30 DAYS
DO
Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge.
Always use clean fresh water.
Wash your vehicle in the shade
DON’T
Do not use a commercial car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface.
Do not “dry wipe” your vehicle. Dry wiping can scratch the finish.
Do not drive on gravel roads. Chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days.
Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which are likely to attract birds. Bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FIRST 90 DAYS
Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish.
Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.
Do not wax or polish the vehicle. This will allow the finish to dry and harden completely.