KAB What You Should Know

What You Should Know

What You Should Know Before Having Your Vehicle Repaired \

1. Your vehicle is the second largest investment you're likely to make. Preserve its value and your safety by having it repaired professionally.

2. Never drive a car that could be unsafe because of damages.

3. Some insurance companies may want you to visit their drive-in claims center before having your car repaired. You can do this, or you may leave your car at the collision repair shop of your choice and ask that the insurance company inspect the car there.

4. You are not required by law to obtain more than one estimate or appraisal.

5. You have the right to go to the repair shop of your choice. Your insurance company cannot require you to go to a particular shop.

6. Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include all necessary work. If you're not sure why one estimate is different from another you've received, ask the shop manager.

7. Choose a shop that has unibody repair equipment and certified technicians.

8. Ask if the shop will be using genuine manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts.

9. Ask if the shop offers a repair warranty.

10. Let the collision repair shop you choose help you negotiate your claim with the insurance company, this often leads to less aggravation for you.

(Provided by Collision Repair Services, Inc.)

What to Do In Case of an Accident

Stop, no matter how slight the accident and keep calm.

	Call the police immediately to report any personal injury or vehicle damage.
	Tell the police if an ambulance is needed for emergency treatment.
	Make no admissions and do not take any blame for the accident. Record only facts - not opinions.
	Remove hazards from the road and warn oncoming traffic.
	Notify your insurance agent as soon as possible.

Get the names of the witnesses.

Tell them their assistance will be greatly appreciated.

Get details regarding the other vehicle(s).

	Driver's Name
	Driver's License Number
	Address
	Home Phone or Cell
	Work Phone
	License Plate Number
	State
	Car Make and Model
	Year
	VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
	Insurance Company
	Agent

Note information on the injured.

Record details of apparent injuries, on-site treatment, and method of transportation to the hospital.

Record the details of the accident.

Date

Time

Street Location

Speed of vehicles involved

Draw a sketch

	Take all measurements: skid marks, road widths, etc.
	Identify points of impact.
	Name all streets and any bridges, overpasses, railroad crossings, etc.
	Mark the position of vehicles.

Record the vehicle damage - a walk-around check is a good habit to get into

Call to have your vehicle towed if you suspect severe damage. Never drive a car that could be unsafe because of damages.

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Send mail to service@koffmanautobody.com with questions or comments about this web site. Last modified: 11/20/06

Send mail to service@koffmanautobody.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 11/20/06