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PA Auto Insurance: Getting Your Car Repaired

You've been in an accident. Other than being shaken up, you're OK - but your car isn't. We depend on our cars. They get us to work, pick up the kids, take us to the grocery store. So, losing your transportation can create a lot of chaos in your life.

There are some ways to help make your auto insurance claim move more smoothly and lead the way to speedier repairs on your vehicle.

At the scene of the accident follow this checklist:

Exchange information with the other driver, but do not discuss the accident with anyone, except the police
Get the driver's name, address, phone number and driver's license number
Get the name of the car's owner and the owner's insurance company
Write down the car's license plate number
Collect information from any witnesses
Make a diagram of how the accident occurred
If you can, photograph the vehicle damage

At this point, it's a good idea to contact your insurance agent for advice on how to proceed. If you are fortunate enough not to be injured in your accident, chances are, you will need to deal directly with the at-fault driver's insurance company. Remember, your agent is on your side. If you have been injured in an accident, you may need to consult with an attorney to ensure you receive just compensation for your injuries.

Managing the Damage Loss on Your Vehicle

If your car is a total loss, you can have it towed out of the salvage yard which can charge up to $20 a day. If your car needs to be repaired, and you have collision coverage, your insurance company can begin the inspection so that your car can be fixed. At this point, you'll find that rental car coverage was worth the investment.

"Managed Care" For Your Vehicle

You probably know about managed healthcare, where plan members visit "preferred" hospitals and doctors for care and treatment. Now, nearly three-quarters of all auto insurance companies are adopting a similar "preferred provider" system for car repair. To help curb costs, insurers favor certain body shops or mechanics.

You can drop off your car at the body shop your insurer suggests and benefit from not having to haggle over price. It's easy, it's convenient, and often there's no need to wait for an insurance adjuster to make a report. Note: If you decide to use the body shop that your insurance company suggests, review the estimate for the term "LKQ" parts. Translated, that means "like kind and quality" parts, and not the original equipment.

Or, you can choose your own mechanic and play the negotiating game. While the cost-cutting approach sounds great, be aware that some body shops may be pressured to cut corners. One strategy is to use generic or salvage parts instead of using new parts from your car's original manufacturer. Generic can be a poor substitute. These parts may not fit as well, be as strong, and they may rust prematurely.

When the repairs are complete, whether you have gone to your insurer's mechanic or your own, consider having an appraiser check your vehicle for any reduction in value.

After Repairs

Your insurance company will seek reimbursement from the party at fault for the accident.

Delays occur when there is a question about who is at fault for the accident. You may have to wait for the insurance companies to complete their investigations. If there is a disagreement between companies, the issue may be forced into inter-company arbitration.