Insurance Assistance
Get A Repair EstimateInsurance Assistance After an Auto Accident
Insurance Assistance
What Do I Do After an Auto Accident?
After you have contacted the police and ensured that everyone is safe and ok, then:
Document Everything and Collect Information of Others Involved:
- Names
- License plates
- Insurance details
- Names of any witnesses
Be calm. Don’t admit anything. Don’t make any statements about fault to the other parties. Don’t delay any medical care. When it is safe, contact your insurance company or insurance agent as soon as possible. This information is usually on your proof of insurance in your glove box.
You will start the process to file a claim. The insurance company will instruct on the next steps. It is always a good proactive step to discuss if you are responsible for a deductible at the end of your repair. For good measure don’t post anything on social media, such as details or photos.
Getting Your Vehicle Repaired or Replaced
Your insurance company may have a direct relationship with some collision repair facilities. Car Center is probably on that list! If it is not, then know that you can still choose Car Center. Your vehicle, your choice. You will get an estimate. Note: You are not required to get more than one estimate. Car Center will prepare an estimate of repair. Note: You are not required to get more than one estimate. Your insurance company will approve repairs.
If the vehicle is repaired, you can schedule with the repair facility. The facility can assist you with alternate transportation and give you a time to repair and keep you “posted” during the repair process.
When dropping your vehicle off, remember any “day to day” items that are in your vehicle:
- Car seats
- Garage door opener
- Check the glove compartment
- Check the trunk
After the repair, the facility will provide you with a detailed invoice listing all parts and procedures that were required to restore your vehicle to its pre-collision condition. You will also be given instructions to care for your repair.
If Your Vehicle Is Totaled
If the vehicle has been towed to the repair facility, we can assist you in removing your license plate and personal items. We will then contact the insurance company and turn the vehicle over to them.
Contact One of Our Seven Auto Collision Shops in West Michigan!
For dealership-quality collision repair, contact your nearest Car Center location. We will make sure your car is fixed right the first time. We offer a Lifetime Warranty on collision repairs and a 12,000 miles / 12-month guarantee on premium auto repair parts and labor*.We have a free local shuttle service and reduced rates on rental cars available for your convenience. Give us a call to schedule an appointment or start an online estimate using the photo estimator for your preferred Car Center location. When looking for collision services, you can visit us at:
Frequently Asked Questions about Insurance Assistance
What is a DRP (Direct Repair Provider) shop?
Most major insurance companies provide their customers with a list of DRP’s. The DRP must meet certain requirements set up by the insurance company. Car Center is a DRP for most major insurance companies in this area.
Am I required to go to the facility that my insurance company recommends?
No, we recommend that you go with a shop that you know and trust. (We hope that is us.) Your insurance company cannot require you to go to a particular repair facility. You have the right to choose your repair shop.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the portion of your collision repair paid by you, if the repair is paid for by an insurance company. Your insurance company will be able to tell you if a deductible is applicable and what the amount of your deductible is. Deductible amounts are established at the time you purchase your auto insurance policy.
When and who do I pay my deductible to?
Your deductible is paid to Car Center when repairs are complete and you pick up your vehicle.
My vehicle is “totaled”. What does that mean?
The cost to repair your vehicle is actually more than its value as determined by the insurance company. For example, if your vehicle costs $1000 to repair and its value is $500, then the insurer will only pay you the value of $500.