CONSUMER INFORMATION AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
First and foremost, determine whether anyone has been hurt and seek prompt medical attention for those with injuries. Exchange information with the driver: phone number, driver’s license, vehicle ID number and insurance information. Also try to obtain any witness names and contact information. Note the location, time and date. AND, if you have a camera, take pictures.
IS IT NECESSARY TO NOTIFY MY INSURANCE COMPANY PRIOR TO HAVING THE REPAIRS DONE?
Yes. Insurance policies state that you must notify the insurance company or you must file a report with them, and let them know where the damaged vehicle can be viewed.
DO I HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE MY REPAIR SHOP EVEN IF MY INSURANCE COMPANY IS PAYING FOR THE REPAIR?
Yes. You have the right to have your car repaired at any shop you choose. Your insurance company is required to pay the reasonable cost to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition according to the coverage you purchased. Even if your vehicle needs to be towed, you can still choose your repair shop. The insurance company is responsible for paying for your repairs and should be responsible for paying the tow bill to the shop of your choice. If the insurance company selected a shop, and you prefer to go elsewhere, they should be obligated to pay for the additional tow.
DO I NEED THREE ESTIMATES?
No. Your only obligation is to inform the insurance company of the collision repair facility you have chosen to perform the work and the vehicle’s location for viewing.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REPAIR MY CAR?
The repair process is determined by the extent of damage to your vehicle. Reputable shops have the kind of facility, equipment, personnel and training to restore your vehicle to pre-loss condition within industry standards. Once the vehicle is inspected, and the estimate written, our body shop can gauge the repair time and determine the approximate completion date.
WHAT ABOUT CHANGES, ADDITIONS, OR OMISSIONS TO THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE?
Some jobs will have changes or additions, known as “Supplements” to the original estimate. For example, a part was to be repaired on the original estimate. During the course of the repair work it is determined the part must be replaced. An estimate for the additional claim or “Supplement” is provided to the insurance company, approved, and work proceeds with little or no delay.
WILL MY VEHICLE BE THE SAME ONCE THE REPAIRS ARE COMPLETED?
It is the role of the collision repair facility to restore the safety, function, and appearance of your car to pre-accident condition. Using the latest in repair technology and original parts, your car is structurally rebuilt to its factory dimensions and tolerances. Even the most modern, well equipped collision center cannot replicate the manufacturer’s work exactly. There is a big difference between repair shops, but there is a bigger difference in how a repair is done. MCDONALD AUTO BODY has adopted repair procedures which will result in the best repair possible, both structurally and cosmetically – all which are covered in most insurance policies.
IS THE REPAIR OF MY VEHICLE GUARANTEED?
Yes. You will receive a written warranty the day you pick up your vehicle. Our warranty is backed by over 50 years of combined experience and remains in effect so long as the vehicle remains with the present owner.