Many car owners have absolutely no idea what their auto insurance policy really contains. One common pitfall is to believe that they have "Full Coverage" or "Their insurance company will take care of everything!" When the time comes time for the repairs, most folks are amazed to discover that they don't have provisions within their policy for rental car coverage.
Many policies are available that provide excellent coverage and there are a lot of solid insurance companies and agents out there. Always make sure to take your policy out and review it carefully, and go over it carefully with your agent to know what you're paying every month and why!
Many families aren't prepared to make the necessary decisions they are forced to make shortly after an accident, so take enough time to review your insurance policy in its entirety.
In almost every scenario, the answer is no. Unless your policy specifically states otherwise, no one can ever tell you to obtain more than one estimate.
Take your car, SUV or truck to a reputable repair shop like Red River Collision Center. Ask the shop manager to contact your insurance company and advise them about the damage, and then call your insurer and advise them concerning the vehicle's location.
Initially, try to collect from the other party, so that you won't have to pay a deductible. In addition, if you use the other car owner's policy, you may be entitled to a rental vehicle while your car is being fixed. No accident should ever be charged against your insurance policy if you're not at fault.
If you are the owner of the automobile, you're the only person with the legal right to make arrangements for the repairs, so it's not the responsibility of your insurance company.
No in almost every case. Unless your insurance policy provides otherwise, it is not compulsory to take your car to a drive-in claims service. Normally, it will suffice for you to call your insurer and inform them where the vehicle can be examined by a claims professional.
Almost never. However, if you choose to take your automobile to the preferred shop, inquire with your insurer to implement its "elects to repair" clause (check your insurance policy). This could possibly cause the insurance company to be responsible for the quality of repairs, among other things.
Yes, but the commissioner's authority is limited on many levels. Contact your state commissioner's office and ask them to describe the scope of their authority.
No, in most cases. You should always be presented with an estimate, so that you can know what's being repaired before the repairs are made, unless your policy indicates otherwise.
