(This list of
informative tips was provided as a public service for consumers by
the Auto Body Association of Connecticut)
If you are involved in an accident you
must:
- Stop at once. Report the accident to the nearest
police station.
- See if anyone is injured. If injuries appear serious,
call an ambulance. If you are hurt, seek treatment promptly.
- Write a complete description of the accident as soon
as possible.
- Submit required accident reports to the proper
authorities.
- Notify your insurance company.
You are not required to:
- Give a signed statement to the claims adjuster
representing the other driver's insurance company.
- Obtain more than one estimate.
- Take your car to a shop specified by your insurance
agent or to any drive-in claims center for inspection.
- Accept a check for repair of your car until you are
confident that it covers all necessary repairs.
- Sign any insurance company release until every repair
has been completed to your satisfaction.
REMEMBER: You
deserve the best. Don't settle for less!
If your vehicle is damaged in an
accident you have the right to:
- Choose your own body shop.
- Have your car towed to the shop of your choice. Don't
let your insurance company specify a shop so they can receive a discount on your repairs.
Call your insurance company and advise them of your vehicle's location. Let your body shop
go over the damage with your insurance company representative.
- Have your car restored to pre-accident condition.
- Your car should look and perform the way it did
before the accident. Even minor cosmetic damage should also be repaired at this time.
Every little nick or chip can lead to rust damage later and will deduct from the value of
your car.
The importance of genuine
replacement parts:
Don't be fooled by "lifetime warranties"
on imitation parts. Significant additional costs can be incurred if these warranties
do not include labor. If the insurance company insists on imitation parts, ask for
proof that they are equal to genuine parts in terms of fit, finish and corrosion
protection. In making your final decision of which parts to use, consider the hidden cost
of future repairs, reduced resale value, and the possible risk to passenger safety which
you may have to face one day. |
