When your vehicle is damaged in an accident or collision, obtaining repair estimates is a crucial first step in the process of getting it back on the road. When you're getting a repair estimate after a car accident, quality, cost and timing are three key factors to keep in mind.
The following tips can help make the entire process smoother and less stressful:
- Do your research - Make sure the estimates you obtain are from well-established collision repair shops with a history of performing quality work. Before you contact a shop about getting a repair estimate after a car accident, look into their reputation and read reviews from other car owners. Get at least three written estimates and make sure they include a detailed breakdown of the repairs included, as well as the costs for parts and labor.
Collision Repair EstimateRepairing All Makes & Models
- Don't base your decision on price alone - Estimates for collision repairs can vary greatly, but don't assume that a high estimate means a repair shop is overcharging. If your insurance adjuster recommends a shop where the cost is substantially lower than the other estimates you've received, be wary. You may not be satisfied with the end result. It's vital to do a line-by-line comparison of the estimates you receive so you can make an informed choice, but quality should be your top priority.
- Don't let your insurance company delay the repairs - You shouldn't wait for your insurer to send an adjuster out to assess the damage before you begin obtaining estimates. If you need to get your car back on the road quickly and the adjustor hasn't arrived within a week, you can pay for the repair yourself and then request reimbursement from your insurer. Keep in mind that it may be more difficult to get the full amount after the work is completed, especially if you go with the highest estimate.
If you're looking for an honest estimate, repair expertise and outstanding service, contact Gerber Collision & Glass. You can drop into any of our locations, schedule an appointment online, or start the process with our easy-to-use repair estimator.
