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FAQ

Do I need more than one estimate?

No, it is up to you to decide how many estimates you would like and if you want to discuss the repairs with more than one shop. If you have selected a shop, have your insurance company deal directly with them.

Is there a fee for an estimate?

We offer free estimates. Come by our shop anytime during our normal hours, and we will be pleased to provide you with an estimate.

Can I have my vehicle repaired at the shop of my choice?

Yes, it is your responsibility, and your right, to choose who will repair your vehicle. Also, if you cannot decide on a repair facility, your insurance company can recommend a repair shop. Many insurance companies offer Direct Repair Programs that take the hassle out of the claim process and provide for quicker repairs.

How can I get a rental car?

If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements.

Will my insurance company pay for a rental?

Yes, if you have rental coverage. Also check with your agent or insurance company to see how much of the rental is covered; some policies pay the full amount, some will only pay a percentage. If the claim is a liability claim (the accident was not your fault), the full amount will be covered.

Do I have to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims service?

No. It is not mandatory to take your vehicle to a drive-in claims service. Usually you can call your insurance company and tell them where you would like the vehicle to be examined by a claims person.

Where do I get a claim number?

Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we will do the rest.

Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?

Yes. We guarantee all of our repairs with a written Limited Lifetime Warranty.

How will I know when my repair is complete?

You will be notified by phone when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Please call or e-mail your advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.

What is subrogation?

Subrogation is the process by which your insurance company pays for the repairs to your vehicle, and is obligated to collect from another insurer or party. Your collision coverage will require you to pay your deductible, which may be refunded once the other party pays.

The other insurance company says my car is a total loss. What do they mean?

The cost of repairs plus the value of the vehicle in damaged condition (salvage value) is greater than the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle prior to the accident.

I don't believe I was at fault in the accident. Should I use my own collision policy or try to collect from the other party?

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.

I am having a problem with the insurance company. Can the state insurance commissioner's office help me?

Possibly. The commissioner's authority is limited!

What if I want to keep my vehicle after it is totaled?

You have the right to retain ownership of the vehicle, but the amount of the settlement may be reduced by the salvage value.

How Often Should I Have My Brakes Checked?
Regular maintenance of your vehicle protects your investment, helps to prevent breakdowns, and will save you on the cost of repairs in the future.
Can the insurance company and service shop make an adjustment and start repair on the auto without your consent?

No. You should be presented an estimate to know what is being repaired on your vehicle before repairs are made.

Who do I pay my deductible to?

It will be your responsibility to pay Pineridge Coach Works when you pick up your vehicle.

Who is responsible to the repair shop for my repair bill?

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.

Can the shop help bury my deductible?

No. When you purchased your insurance policy, you signed a contract saying you will pay the first amount of the claim up to your deductible. Repairers should not be asked to hide the deductible. That practice would constitute fraud by both the shop and consumer. The penalties for insurance fraud are severe. If a shop offers to save your deductible, they are absorbing that at your cost. They are not doing the said repairs in order to make up for your deductible. This could lead to unsafe and unsatisfactory repairs which will ultimately cost you at some point.

How is the actual cash value (ACV) determined?

The insurance company will assign an appraiser to inspect the vehicle to determine its condition prior to the accident, or in some instances allow the repairer to make the determination. They may use a vehicle evaluation service or the newspaper to determine pre-accident value. The owner should also determine the value independently.

is the actual cash value (ACV) negotiable?

Sometimes. If you feel the ACV offered by the insurance company is too low, then you are obligated to prove this either through documented receipts of vehicle enhancement or written statements by qualified experts to determine the proper value.

When can I wash or wax my vehicle?

You can wash the vehicle immediately. Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth, sponge, or mitt.

* • Always use clean fresh water.
* • Wash your vehicle in the shade.
* • Do not use a commercial brush car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface.

Do not wax or polish the vehicle in the first 90 days. This will allow the finish to cure completely. After the first 90 days keep a coat of polish or wax on the vehicle. This will help keep your finish looking new.

OUR WARRANTY

We take great care to ensure that every repair meets our standards for quality. The labor performed by us is guaranteed against any defect in workmanship for as long as you own your car.

Our Warranty provides:
• Limited Lifetime Warranty on metalwork.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty on paint, stripes and decals.
• One Year Limited Lifetime Warranty on mechanical repairs.
• One Year Limited Lifetime Warranty on parts (does not exceed mfg. warranty).

To provide you with added protection, your warranty is also registered with the Automotive Customer Relations Bureau (www.theacrb.com), an independent consumer protection organization. The Bureau functions as a consumer watchdog entity and customer experience evaluator for the collision repair industry.

Have a Collision Repair Question?

Get your questions answered by The Pineridge Coach Works Team