Motorists Do Have Rights

Do I have to get three estimates?
Answer: Not usually, unless your policy states otherwise. You, as the car owner, may choose your shop and only get one estimate, should this be your desire.

My Insurance Company told me, I must take my car to a certain repair shop. Must I do this?
Answer: Generally, no. No one can force you to go to a certain repair shop unless your policy states otherwise.

How can I get my vehicle back quickly and also have quality repair work done?
Answer: Take your vehicle to a reputable bonded and licensed repair shop. Ask the manger if they will contact your Insurance Company and have an adjustor come to the shop to evaluate it.   You should also call your insurance company and advise them of the vehicle's location.

I do not believe I was the at fault driver in the accident. Should I use my own collision policy or try to collect from the other party?
Answer: Try to collect from the other party because you will not have to pay a deductible. Also, if you use the other person's policy, you may be entitled to a rental car while yours is being repaired, and no accident should be charged against your policy.

Who is responsible to the repair shop for my repair bill - the insurance company or me?
Answer: You are. You may direct your insurance company to pay the repair shop, but the payment must be in the hands of the repair agency when you pick up your vehicle. Keep in mind, you are the customer and the insured. The repair shop owner looks to you for payment and you look to the insurance company for payment.

Who is responsible for the safety, workmanship and guarantee of my auto repairs - insurance company or repair shop?
Answer: Generally, the repair shop is responsible.

I am sure that the other driver is at fault, but no one has made any effort to see to the repairs of my auto. What can I do?
Answer: You are the owner of the automobile. Only you have the legal right to make arrangements for the repair of your automobile, not the insurance company.

I am having a problem with the insurance company. Can the state insurance commissioner's office help me?
Answer: Perhaps, yes, but the commissioner's authority is limited! The commissioner's office in your state can describe the scope of authority for you.

Can the insurance company and service shop make an adjustment and start repair on the auto without the owner's consent?
Answer: Generally, no. You should receive an estimate prior to the repair of your vehicle. You, the Auto Repair shop and the Insurance Company should all be in agreement before repairs are made, unless your policy states otherwise.

A Final Word...

Most state laws make it unlawful for any person to operate any motor vehicle that is unsafe or has defective equipment. Insist on having your vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition. Do not be pressured into having repair work done by a specific shop simply because of lower price. The owners of some repair shops have pledged their shops to a rigid code of ethics. This code is designed to protect you and your property.

All of this information was found on the Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) website. Please refer to this site if you would like more information http://www.asashop.org/tips/bill.htm.