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Frequently

Asked

Questions

Insurance Related Questions

Where can I find my claim number?

Your claim number will be provided by your insurance company. You can usually find it in an email or text communication from your insurance company. You can also find it on your estimate or can call your insurance company for your claim number if needed. We work with all insurance companies and all we need to get started is the claim number.

Does my insurance company need to inspect my car first before getting an estimate?

No, you do not need to have your insurance company inspect your vehicle before getting an estimate or deciding on a repair facility. You can drop your vehicle off with us, and your insurance company can inspect your vehicle at our shop. We can complete your estimate with the insurance company to ensure the quickest repairs.

Will my insurance cover the cost of collision repair?

If you have collision coverage, your insurance should cover the cost minus your deductible. However, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for certain repairs. If the other driver is at fault, their insurance should cover it.

What is a deductible?

A deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for paying out of pocket when you make a claim on your auto insurance policy before your insurance company starts covering the remaining costs. In other words, it’s the portion of the repair or replacement cost that you must cover yourself. The amount you pay varies based on your policy. This amount is paid directly to the shop when you pick up your vehicle.

What is a total loss, and how is it determined?

A total loss occurs when the cost of repairs exceeds the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle. The ACV is determined by the market value of your vehicle before the accident, and the insurance company calculates this.

Will my insurance rates increase after a collision claim?

Typically, filing a claim for an accident you didn’t cause may result in increased insurance premiums. However, your rates may not go up if you have accident forgiveness coverage.

Repair Related Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

First, ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call the police to report the accident. Document the scene, exchange information with the other driver, and contact your insurance company.

How do I schedule an estimate?

You can schedule one right here.

Do I need to pay for an initial estimate at the collision repair shop?

Many shops offer free estimates. All initial estimates written at our shop are free.

Do I need multiple repair estimates?

It’s a good idea to get at least two or three estimates, but you’re not obligated to get any or choose the cheapest one. Consider the quality of work, the repair shop’s reputation, and the types of parts they’ll use.

Do I have the right to choose the collision repair shop?

Yes, you have the right to choose the repair shop. Your insurance company may provide recommendations, but the choice is ultimately yours.

How do I select a collision repair shop?

Look for a reputable shop with certified technicians, good customer reviews, and a history of quality work. Ensure they use genuine replacement parts and offer warranties.

How long will the repair take?

The time for repairs varies depending on the extent of damage. Minor repairs may take a few days, while extensive damage could take weeks. Your repair shop should provide an estimated timeframe.

Do I have to accept aftermarket parts for repairs?

No, you have the right to request OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts if you prefer them. Some policies may specify the use of aftermarket parts to control costs, but you can often pay the difference for OEM parts.

Can I choose to have my vehicle repaired with used parts to save money?

Yes, you can choose to use used or recycled parts, but it’s important to discuss this with your repair shop and insurance company to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.

How can I track the progress of my vehicle’s repair?

You can call or email and ask for updates as needed.

Can I choose my paint color for the repair?

Yes, you can often choose the paint color for your vehicle’s repair. Discuss your preferences with the repair shop.

Can you match the paint on my vehicle?

Absolutely, our painters are artisans and are able to match any vehicle color. We have the knowledge and technology to make sure your color matches every time.

What type of repairs do you perform?

We specialize in full service collision repair. This means we can handle any paint and body repairs along with any collision related mechanical, suspension, glass, and frame issues. We can also repair damage from vandalism to the interior of the vehicle, and offer paintless dent repair services.

Can I rent a car while mine is being repaired?

If you have rental car coverage in your insurance policy, you can usually rent a car. The insurance company will reimburse you for the cost, up to the policy limit. If the accident was your fault, rental car coverage would typically depend on your insurance policy. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.

What is the betterment charge on my estimate?

Betterment charges are applied to wearable items on your vehicle that the insurance company has paid to replace. Some examples are tires, batteries, suspension, and exhaust parts. The amount of betterment is determined by your insurance company. The betterment amount that you pay is based off the wear and estimated lifespan of the replaced part.

After Repair Questions

Can I inspect my vehicle before accepting the repair work?

Yes, it’s advisable to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before accepting the repair. Ensure that all agreed-upon work has been completed satisfactorily.

What if I’m not satisfied with the repair work?

If you’re not satisfied, discuss your concerns with the repair shop. Many reputable shops will work to address any issues to ensure your satisfaction. Here at TDG Collision, we offer a lifetime warranty on repairs, so you never have to worry.

Do you offer any warranty on the repairs you perform?

Absolutely, we offer a lifetime warranty on all repairs. As long as you still own the vehicle we repaired, it will be covered under warranty.

Can I wash or wax my car after it is repaired?

We recommend waiting at least 14 days or 2 weeks before allowing soap and water to come in contact with the repaired area. We recommend waiting 60 days before using a commercial carwash or applying wax.