After a car accident, dealing with the aftermath can be stressful. A common question that pops into your mind is likely, “I have insurance, so how long will it take for them to fix my car?”. It’s important to understand that your insurance company isn’t directly involved in the physical repair of your vehicle. However, they play a crucial role in the process by sending an insurance adjuster to the body shop you choose to assess the damage and approve the repair work. This evaluation and approval phase typically takes about 4 to 5 business days.
Many insurance companies might suggest or even strongly recommend specific auto body shops. They may present it as though you must use their preferred shop. However, it’s crucial to know that legally, the choice of where to repair your vehicle is entirely yours. Insurance companies often have preferred networks because these shops offer benefits to the insurer, such as negotiated discounts on parts and labor. Insurance adjusters also have internal targets to steer a certain percentage of claims to these direct repair program shops. Because of this, if you opt for a body shop outside their network, they might use tactics to discourage your choice. You might hear phrases like, “that shop isn’t in our preferred network,” “we can’t guarantee the work at that shop,” “that shop’s rates are higher,” or “claims take longer to process there.” When you contact your insurance provider, remember your right as a consumer is to select the repair shop that best suits your needs.
Choosing the right auto body shop is essential for quality repairs and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider:
- Opt for a Certified Repair Shop
Selecting a shop that holds certifications from your vehicle’s manufacturer is a smart move. For example, Cline Collision Center is OEM certified by numerous brands including Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Ram, MOPAR, SRT, Ford, Hyundai, Infiniti, Nissan, Honda, and Acura. OEM certification signifies that the body shop has met rigorous standards and is recognized by the manufacturer as having the expertise to repair your specific vehicle model to factory specifications. This certification often means specialized training, equipment, and adherence to manufacturer repair procedures, ensuring a higher quality repair.
- Review Online Ratings and Reviews
Take advantage of online platforms like Google and Yelp to check the body shop’s reputation. While people are more inclined to leave reviews for extremely positive or negative experiences, these reviews can still provide valuable insights into customer satisfaction. Look for patterns in reviews regarding service quality, communication, and overall customer experience.
- Assess the Professionalism and Demeanor of the Staff
The way you are treated is just as important as the quality of the vehicle repair. Choose a body shop where the staff is friendly, helpful, and respectful. A professional and courteous team, like the one at Cline Collision Center, indicates a customer-focused approach and can make the repair process significantly smoother.
- Request a Free Written Estimate
A detailed written auto repair estimate acts as a contract between you and the repair shop. It clearly outlines the scope of work to be performed and the associated costs. Having this in writing upfront can help prevent misunderstandings or disputes later on and ensures transparency throughout the repair process.
- Inquire About Vehicle Detailing
While not the top priority, a professional auto body shop should detail your vehicle after repairs. Detailing helps restore that new car feel and look. Considering the investment you’re making in repairs, receiving your vehicle back clean and detailed is a reasonable expectation and a sign of a shop that pays attention to the finishing touches.
In conclusion, while the initial insurance approval might take 4-5 days, the total time to repair your car depends on various factors including the extent of damage, parts availability, and the body shop’s workload. Remember, you have the right to choose your repair shop. Selecting a certified, reputable shop that prioritizes customer service and provides transparent estimates will contribute to a smoother and more satisfactory car repair experience after an accident. For those in the Santa Rosa, CA area, Cline Collision Center offers free estimates and is ready to assist with your auto body repair needs. You can reach them at 707-591-9909.
