Steben Motors
”The Original” Steben Auto Glass
Auto Body FAq's
Should I take my car to a drive-in claims center?
No! Today's automobiles are too complex for an accurate visual estimate. A drive-in claims center often doesn't have the equipment needed for examining your vehicle properly. And even if it does, it doesn't have a representative form your body shop to make certain that all the damage is assessed. There is only one place for the adjuster to examine your vehicle: At the shop of your choice!
How long will the repairs take?
A good body shop will take the time to do the job right. Sometimes it may encounter delays when necessary parts are not available locally. Expect an estimate of when the work will be done, but not a promise.
What do I do if my insurance company and the body shop cannot agree on the cost of repairs?
Be aware of the "Appraisal Clause" in your insurance policy. If the insurance company and the body shop cannot agree on what the repairs should cost, this could provide a means for fair settlement.
What if my body shop requests a supplementary allowance once repairs have begun?
Every appraiser is required to reinspect damaged vehicles when supplementary allowances are requested by repair shops.
What if my insurance company insists on another estimate?
Your adjuster can obtain a competitive estimate from another shop only by having that shop's owner or his authorized agent physically inspect your automobile.
Am I required to accept this estimate?
No. Do not be pressured into having work done by a shop simply because of a lower price.
If your vehicle is damaged in an accident you have the right to:
Choose your own body shop.
Have your car towed to the shop of your choice. Don't let your insurance company specify a shop so they can receive a discount on your repairs. Call your insurance company and advise them of your vehicle's location. Let your body shop go over the damage with your insurance company representative.
Have your car restored to pre-accident condition.
Your car should look and perform the way it did before the accident. Even minor cosmetic damage should also be repaired at this time. Every little nick or chip can lead to rust damage later and will deduct from the value of your car.
The importance of genuine replacement parts:
Don't be fooled by "lifetime warranties" on imitation parts. Significant additional costs can be incurred if these warranties do not include labor. If the insurance company insists on imitation parts, ask for proof that they are equal to genuine parts in terms of fit, finish and corrosion protection. In making your final decision of which parts to use, consider the hidden cost of future repairs, reduced resale value, and the possible risk to passenger safety which you may have to face one day.