What You Should Know Before An Accident...
- At the accident scene, should your vehicle not be safe to drive, instruct the police that you would like your vehicle to be repaired at Collision Specialists of Inwood or the repair shop of your choice; this will be a savings to your insurance company only having to tow your vehicle once.
- If your vehicle is safe to drive, take your vehide to Collision Specialists of Inwood or the collision facility of your choice; give them all your insurance information, asking them to advise your insurance company about the repairs.
- You should also contact your insurance company and advise them on the damage, informing them of the facility you’ve selected.
- Some insurance companies have what is called “drive-in claims service.” It is not mandatory to use this service unless your policy states otherwise. Just inform your insurance company where their claims person can see your vehicle.
- If the accident is your fault, your insurance company will cover the damage to your vehicle and the other party. If the accident wasn’t your fault the other parties insurance should cover your damages; try to collect from the other insurance, this will entitle you to a rental vehicle and you won’t have to pay a deductible.
COLLISION REPAIR BILL OF RIGHTS
It’s Your Right To Know…
Section 167C of the New York State Law states YOU HAVE THE RIGHT to have your car repaired in the registered shop of your choice. Your insurance company cannot direct you otherwise.
You may legally designate your repair shop to negotiate a fair claim settlement with your insurance company.
The insurance company has six business days after proper notification to inspect your car. If additional damage is found after dismantling, the insurance company has two business days to re-inspect after proper notification.
Your insurance company must negotiate in good faith. You are entitled to a prompt fair settlement to repair your car to its per-accident condition. This includes parts of like, kind and quality equal to original equipment.
If the damages to your car are over $1,000.00 you must fill out a D.M.V. Form 104.
BY LAW you are not required to have your car repaired in a shop recommended by the insurance company.
YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED to get one or more estimates.
YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED to take your car to an insurance company’s drive-in claim service.
No insurance company shall issue a check or draft in payment of claim, implying acceptance of such as final or binding.
Anyone who estimates collision damage in New York State must be licensed by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Insurance Department
Total loss payment is calculated by averaging RED BOOK + N.A.D.A. values. Also calculated are additions from optional and accessory items and low mileage. Deductions for higher mileage, deleted options and certain motors are also calculated. Up to $100.00 may be deducted as Dealer Prep charges. You may request an evaluation work sheet.
Difference in repair estimates are common. Ask your shop to explain the method of repair.
Ask your shop if they are:
The New York State Insurance Department regulates the insurance industry, including agents and brokers.
If you have a complaint or question you may direct it to the:
New York State Department of Insurance
212-602-0508
New York State Department of Motor vehicles
518-474-8943
