| If I am involved in an accident, what should I do? It is always a good practice to report every accident to the police so a written report is on file. Get names, addresses and phone numbers of all parties involved and of any witnesses to the accident. Am I free to choose which shop repairs my vehicle? Yes you are. Select the repair shop, leave your vehicle there and notify your insurance agent or company. How do I choose the right shop? Find a shop with precision measuring machinery. Laser measuring is the most precise method. Also, you'll want to choose a shop with the capability of factory-like finishes in a controlled dust-free environment. Of course, make sure the staff is highly qualified. Can I have repairs made before notifying my insurance company? No - Most require you to notify the company or the agent so they can inspect the damage. Who is responsible for the cost of repairs? You are ultimately responsible for repair costs. Most insurance policies state that the insurance company will pay for the loss, less any applicable deductions or depreciation. Who is responsible for the repairs made to my vehicle? We are. That's why it's so important to do your research and select the right shop. If there is a problem with the repair, who do I contact? Talk to the manager and explain your dissatisfaction. If you are still dissatisfied, contact the claims manager at your insurance company. Before you choose the shop, make sure they stand behind their work. What if the shop and my insurance company disagree on repair methods and costs? Refer to the Appraisal Clause in your policy. It will describe the system that will be used to resolve differences. Can I have other work done at the same time? Sure, but payment is entirely your responsibility and it can not be reported as part of the claim. I've heard about quality replacement parts or competitive parts. What are they? These parts are questionable in terms of fit, corrosion, and structural stability. In other words, they are not made by the manufacturer of your vehicle. What is deductible? Do I have to pay this part? It is the portion of the cost of repairs you have agreed with your insurance company to pay yourself. The insurance company pays the remainder. Can you match my paint? Yes, we have a computerized mixing system with access to over 100,000 paint formulas so the part we paint will be undetectable. What happens if Ken's Auto Body's estimate is more that the one from my insurance company? Insurance companies know there might be additional repairs necessary so there is a system built in to accommodate this. Most of the time, they pay us directly, so you don't have to worry about coming up with the money. Will the insurance company tell me where I have to take my vehicle? No. There is an anti-steering law in Washington that makes this illegal. Do I have to get more than one estimate? Washington State law requires only one. Can I get an estimate over the phone? We have to physically examine the vehicle to provide an estimate. But, it's free and you don't need an appointment. |