Your Rights After a Collision:
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process
Experiencing a car accident is a stressful event, and navigating the insurance claims process can add another layer of complexity, especially nowadays when adjusters don’t get back to you in a reasonable amount of time. As a vehicle owner, it’s crucial to understand your rights and know what to expect during the claims process to ensure you receive the quality repairs your vehicle deserves. In this article, we’ll provide guidance on how to navigate the insurance claims process and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Report the Accident Promptly
After a collision, the first step is to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide essential details, such as the location, date, and time of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of all parties involved. Mention immediately if you have a bodyshop of your choice in mind to make sure they know this is your preference.
Understand Your Policy
In most cases, your insurance company will arrange for an appraisal of the damage to your vehicle. It’s essential to ensure the appraisal is thorough and includes all necessary repairs. If you have doubts about the initial assessment, consider seeking a second opinion from a reputable repair facility. Its ok to go to their recommended facility for a preliminary appraisal but then you take this appraisal to your preferred auto body shop to start the process there. They will get in touch with the adjuster for any concerns on the preliminary estimate.
Request an Appraisal
In most cases, your insurance company will arrange for an appraisal of the damage to your vehicle. It’s essential to ensure the appraisal is thorough and includes all necessary repairs. If you have doubts about the initial assessment, consider seeking a second opinion from a reputable repair facility.
Choose Your Repair Facility
As a vehicle owner, you have the right to choose where your car is repaired. Opt for a reputable and OEM certified repair facility that uses genuine OEM parts and employs skilled technicians. Ensure the chosen facility can provide you with a detailed repair estimate and communicate effectively with your insurance company. Don’t let your insurance company bully you into going somewhere you wish not to, sometimes they attempt to deter you by telling you that your bodyshop is not on their insurance program and they (the ins.co) does not guarantee any repairs if you go to your own body shop. All reputable shops guarantee collision repairs for as long as you own the vehicle and some are transferable to the next owner, like ours at Mitek. Also sometimes they threaten you with miscellaneous items like if there are any other hidden charges or any other charges that the ins co does not pay for that this will be your responsibility to pay to the bodyshop over and above what the insurance wishes to pay, we can’t speak for all shops but again at Mitek you pay no additional or hidden charges.
Communicate Clearly
Maintain open and transparent communication with both your chosen repair facility and your insurance company. Inform the repair shop about your insurance coverage and any specific requirements. Stay informed about the progress of the repairs and address any concerns promptly.
Advocate for Quality Repairs
Don’t compromise on the quality of repairs to expedite the process. Insist on using genuine manufacturer-approved parts and techniques to ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition. Quality repairs are essential for your safety and the long-term value of your vehicle.
Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights as a policyholder. Insurance companies are required to act in good faith and process claims promptly and fairly. If you encounter issues or feel that your claim is being unfairly denied, seek legal counsel or contact the insurance regulator in your province for assistance.
Navigating the insurance claims process after a collision may seem daunting, but understanding your rights and responsibilities is key to ensuring a smooth and successful outcome. By reporting the accident promptly, choosing a reputable repair facility, and advocating for quality repairs, you can protect your investment and ensure your vehicle is restored to its optimal condition. Don’t hesitate to seek legal advice or regulatory assistance if you encounter challenges during the process. Your safety and satisfaction should be the top priority throughout the claims and repair journey.
We at Mitek are also willing to help right from the beginning, we can manage the repairs process by getting in touch with your adjuster to get an appraisal done and uploaded to the insurance company once a claim has been started, our process is very efficient and less time consuming than with some insurance companies. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to see if we can help with your claim.
Mike Tikl
Proud owner of Mitek Fine Autobody & Paint,
Serving Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and the surrounding region since 1980,
Your Fine Car Deserves our Fine Care