What you should do if you are involved in an accident.
We have prepared a form that you can print out and keep in your vehicles in the event of an accident. Here are some important points to remember.
Remain Calm.
Check to see if anyone is injured and call for help.
Call the police and file an Accident Report.
When filing the report remember to only state the facts not your opinion.
Complete the Accident Report Form provided here by recording the name of the driver, address, license number, license plate and insurance company information and provide it to your insurance carrier just a soon as possible.
INSURANCE CLAIM HANDLING
Eurotech Collision Center has a great relationship with the insurance companies and can help negotiate your insurance claim. Some insurance companies will request that you use a recommended service center. These recommended Service Centers regard your insurance company as their customer not you. Be sure to read your policy carefully. Request genuine manufacturer parts. Whether your insurance company or another party is responsible for the repairs on your automobile and restores your car's functionality and appearance you are still entitled to the loss in value that your vehicle has suffered as a result of the accident. This is called Diminished Value. (For more information on this important information please click here)
Diminished Value:
After an accident the insurance company has a contractual legal obligation to you, to return your vehicle to pre-accident condition as to function, appearance, value and safety. A failure to accomplish this results in diminished value to the vehicle. Diminished value can result when resale value goes down if the parts are substandard or repairs are made with an incomplete procedure in an attempt to save on labor and parts. (We will not allow this to happen to your vehicle.)
What you should know before having your car repaired:
Your car is the second largest investment you are likely to make. Preserve its value and your safety by having it repaired professionally.
Do not attempt to drive it yourself if a car is damaged, making it unsafe. Have it towed to a service center. You are not required by law to obtain more than one estimate or appraisal.
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 your collision repair shop and ask that the insurance company inspect the car there. Please remember, these centers provide only preliminary surface assessments, which result in a report of about 65-80% of the actual repair cost. Be sure to ask for a complete explanation of your appraisal.
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.
Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include all necessary work or quality replacement parts. If you are not sure why one estimate is different from another, ask the shop manager. Confirm if they will be using genuine manufacturer replacement parts before you approve the work.
Choose a shop that has the Factory Approved equipment and finishes to do the job right. This is critical in maintaining the safety and value of your automobile.
Confirm that the shop offers a Warranty on their work.
Let the Collision Shop you choose help you negotiate your claim with the insurance company. This often leads to a better settlement.
