Choosing Your Repair Facility Is Your Legal Right

When an accident occurs, it can be very overwhelming choosing which repair facility you would like to complete the repairs on your vehicle.  Often insurance companies will stress the use of their “preferred” shops.   Often making the owner feel obligated to use the facility the insurance company would prefer.  It is vital to remember that the consumer has control over who fixes their vehicle.

So, the question becomes, “Who do you choose to fix your vehicle?”  You should approach that decision in the same way you would make any decision as a consumer. 

First, the repair facility you choose should be I-Car certified.  There are three levels of certification for I-Car, with Gold Class being the top. 

Gold Class certification shows the repair facility is dedicated to continuing education of their employees.  Gold Class also means the estimators, and technicians have passed a multitude of tests to maintain their certification.  Also, the facility has the appropriate equipment needed to do proper repairs and diagnostics.

With vehicle technology constantly evolving, it is imperative that the facility you choose keeps up with any changes in the industry.

Warranties are always important.  A collision repair facility should offer a lifetime warranty on their workmanship; this should always be available to the consumer in writing.

Check the reviews!!  There are a multitude of avenues in the collision field where shops are reviewed by their customers.  Of course, you have Google but also check Carwise and Better Business Bureau.  As a company, if you pride yourself on your work, you take great pride in reviews as well.

Be cautious of “saving your deductible.”  This often leads to short cuts and improper repairs.  A lot of these short cuts will be hard to notice once your vehicle is completed.

Why Independent Repair Facilities Are Often a Great Choice

Independent repair facilities are often prioritizing quality repairs over-cost effect repairs.  Taking the time to find all the related damage, work with your insurance company to ensure the repairs are covered and then ensure the repairs are completed back to pre-accident conditions.  

Being in the collision repair industry in today’s world mandates that a repair facility works with your insurance company, creating a relationship of mutual trust and respect that not only expedites your repairs but ensures that those repairs are done correctly. 

However, no repair facility or insurance company should forget that the customer is the owner of the vehicle and ensure that the owner’s needs are met first and foremost. 

We invite you to talk with us about your repair needs at Altra Collision.  An independent repair facility that puts our customers first in the relationship.  We would love the opportunity to earn your business.