Question 1

Do I have the right to select the shop that will repair my car?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  In order to expedite your claim, select the repair shop, leave your automobile there and notify your insurance agent or company.

Question 2

Where do I get a claim number?

Accepted Answer

Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we will do the rest.

Question 3

Are you open on Saturday?

Accepted Answer

No, but we are open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Question 4

Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my vehicle for repair?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We generally order your vehicle's parts at the time that we write the estimate and schedule your vehicle for drop-off a couple of days later unless your vehicle is found unsafe to drive, then we would help you arrange for a rental vehicle as soon as possible. This enables us to provide quicker turnaround time.

Question 5

If my vehicle's frame is damaged, is it a total loss?

Accepted Answer

No. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company's percentage of determined value of your vehicle. Today most cars are built using unibody (frame and body as one) construction. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of the-art computer measuring system, can return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined that the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can simply be replaced.

Question 6

Can you match the paint color?

Accepted Answer

Today's modern factory finishes incorporate multiple layers of highly specialized paints. We have made a major investment in the finest paint system available and constantly upgrade our technology and equipment to ensure that each vehicle's paint matches. We take special pride in our ability to match factory finishes as the final step in the restoration process.

Question 7

Can I get other service work done on my vehicle while it is in the body shop?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Just let your advisor know what other work you would like done so that he or she can make the necessary arrangements.

Question 8

How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?

Accepted Answer

Your advisor can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete the repairs to your vehicle.  Be sure to check with your advisor for the specifics on your vehicle.

Question 9

How can I get a rental car?

Accepted Answer

If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements. Insurance companies will only pay for a rental car if you have that option on your policy or if you are the claimant.  Check your policy and/or call your insurance company to find out if you have rental coverage and what your specific limitations are.

Question 10

How will I know when my car is done?

Accepted Answer

You will be notified when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. You can also check this website. You will see a message next to the last picture of your vehicle telling you that your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Feel free to call or e-mail your advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.

Question 11

Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We guarantee all repairs with a Lifetime Warranty. See our warranty page HERE.(https://www.northcolumbuscollisioncenter.com/our-guarantee)

Question 12

Do I have to pay a deductible?

Accepted Answer

The amount of deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy.  If you carry broad collision, and you were not at fault, your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies determine fault by your account of the accident when you make the claim, and by reviewing the accident report filed with the police department. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he or she can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether you will be responsible to pay this when you pick up your vehicle.

Question 13

Who do I pay my deductible to?

Accepted Answer

If your deductible is not waived, it will be your responsibility to pay us when you pick up your vehicle. If you aren't sure about your deductible, you can call your agent and he or she can tell you whether your insurance company has waived your deductible or whether it will be your responsibility.

Question 14

What form of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

The easiest and most convenient way to pay for your portion of the repairs to your vehicle is with a major credit card. We accept Visa and Mastercard.  Of course, cash and checks are always welcome.

Question 15

What are betterment charges?

Accepted Answer

Parts that wear out and need replacement with time and use (i.e., tires, batteries, and suspension parts) are commonly subject to betterment charges when they are replaced during the repair process. These betterment charges are determined by your insurance company and are pro-rated based on actual miles on your vehicle.

Question 16

Can I wash my car?

Accepted Answer

Recommendations and precautions in the first 30 days

DO: Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth or sponge. · Always use clean fresh water. · Wash your vehicle in the shade

DON’T: Use a commercial car wash—stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface. · Do not "dry wipe" your vehicle—dry wiping can scratch the finish. · Do not drive on gravel roads—chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days. · Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which are likely to attract birds—bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface. Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface. · Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish. · Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface.