Know Your Rights

Safety

Imitation Parts = Unknown Collision Performance

Your vehicle was designed to meet all Federal Safety Standards. This design incorporates collision performance requirements which are important to your safety. Imitation parts may  not be tested or certified by their makers,  sellers or the insurance companies who want you to use them. Imitation parts cannot guarantee your vehicle will meet the specifications of the original manufacturer or the testing standards of the U.S. Government.

INSIST ON ORIGINAL FACTORY SHEET METAL

Quality

You paid for quality when you bought your vehicle. Tell your insurance adjuster you want to keep it that way.

Your insurance company may tell you that the imitation parts they want to use to repair your vehicle are of "like kind and quality." Ask for a copy of the standards used to make these parts. Industry tests have revealed serious fit, finish, function and corrosion protection problems with imitation parts.

Be certain your car is as good after it has been repaired as it was before your accident. Using imitation parts may also void your new vehicle warranty for that part. Many states have passed laws which regulate the use of imitation collision parts. Some states give you the right of consent. Ask your body shop or car dealer about the laws in your state.

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

Your car is more than just transportation, it is the second largest investment most people ever make. Be sure you get the original fit, finish, function and corrosion protection only original factory sheet metal can guarantee.

Your Freedom of Choice

DON'T LET YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY MAKE IT WORSE BY TAKING AWAY YOUR FREEDOM OF CHOICE.

Here are some tips for dealing with your insurance adjustor:

• Ask for a complete explanation of your repair estimate.
  
  
• Ask the adjustor if imitation parts have been specified.
  
  
• Many computerized estimates automatically select cheaper imitations.
  
  
• Remember that selecting a repair shop is your choice, your adjustor's recommendation may be the cheapest, but not the best.
  
  
• If your adjustor refuses to pay for original equipment parts, contact your agent.
  
  
• If your insurance company refuses to repair your vehicle with original factory parts, we recommend that you contact the office of your State Insurance Commissioner or your local consumer protection agency. The address and phone number of your State Insurance Commissioner can be obtained by calling (614) 228-1593
  
  

And last - some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Do I have the right to select the shop that will repair my car?
- Yes. In order to expedite your claim, select the repair shop; leave your automobile there; and notify your insurance agent or company. It's the Law

Do I need to get three estimates?
- No. Notify your agent or insurance company. Your insurance adjuster may need to inspect the damage. If your insurance company has a drive-in claims service and your car is safe to drive, you should call them for an appointment, take your car there, make sure you get a copy of the insurance adjuster's estimate, and take it and your automobile to the shop of your choice.

Some insurance agents may tell you to get two or three estimates. Talk to your insurance adjuster first. Generally claims are handled by the insurance company's claims department, not agents.

In some areas your insurance agent may be authorized by the insurance company to pay your claim. If he/she tells you to get two estimates, ask if he will pay your claim from his or her office. If "yes" is the answer, getting two estimates may speed up your claims payment. If "no" is the answer, talk to your insurance adjuster first.

Must I notify my insurance company before repairs?
- Yes, insurance policies require that you notify the company or your agent, make a report, and tell them where the damaged vehicle may be inspected.

Who pays the repair bills?
- You must arrange for payment. Your insurance policy states the insurance company will pay you less any deductibles or depreciation.

Who is responsible for repairs?
- The shop (i.e. we are). That's why it is important that you select a repair facility that is properly trained and equipped to restore your automobile to its pre-accident condition.

If there is a problem with the repair job, who should you contact?
- First, the manager of the shop. If your problem is still unresolved, contact your insurance company claims manager. You may also want to contact the office of consumer protection.

If my insurance company fails to process my claim or pay the amount agreed upon, what can I do?
- First contact your insurance agent, then talk to the Branch or Regional Claims Manager of the insurance company. If that fails, then contact the Ohio Department of Insurance at (614) 644-2658.

Need more info?
- No problem, just Contact us over the internet, or call (614) 868-9999.