If you have been in an accident and you are in need of auto body repairs, you are probably going to want to file a claim with your insurance. This will ensure that most of the auto body repair costs are covered after you have paid your deductible. Here are five tips to keep in mind when using an auto body repair shop with your insurance company:
Expect to Pay Deductible: If you have been at fault for the accident, then you must be prepared to pay the full cost of the deductible.
If your car is damaged in an accident, you'll have to decide where you want to take it to be repaired. When comparing auto collision repair shops like Mojave Paint And Body 2 in your area, you'll have to weigh their reviews, rates and warranties. If you're moving out of state soon, you'll also want to think about whether they have other locations. Taking your car to a national collision repair chain could help you resolve any post-repair issues that are covered by a warranty.
If you want to repaint an old car, you will likely need to fix several dings, dents and holes in your car body. Most auto body paint shops will also do auto body repair, but it will definitely cost you extra. In fact, it might double the total cost of your paint job. If you are trying to make your paint job more affordable, you can do the small auto body repair on your own, before you take your car in to be painted.
Car accidents happen with alarming frequency. Based on car insurance industry data, you will file an accident claim once every 18 years. As of 2014, the average lifespan of a United States citizen is 78.8 years. Given that most people get a driver's license at the age of 16, you will have about 3.5 reportable accidents in your lifetime.
It is a good idea to be prepared for all accident scenarios, no matter if the likelihood of being in a situation is low.