When the shop of your choice and the insurance company do not agree on how your car should be repaired or what it should cost, here is what you can do.

1.  Must I obtain more than one estimate?
2.  Am I required to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims service?
3.  I was told to take my vehicle to a specific repair facility. Am I required to do this?
4.  If my vehicle is not drivable, or if I feel it is not safe to drive, what should I do?
5.  Who is responsible for the safety and quality of the repair?  Who guarantees it?
6.  If the insurance company and I do not agree on how my should be repaired, what can I do?
7.  What can I do to assure quality repairs in a timely manner?
8.  If I'm not at fault in the accident should I use my policy or try to collect from the other driver?

1.  Q: Must I obtain more than one estimate?
    A: No. Unless your policy states otherwise, you need not obtain more than one estimate.

Back to top

2.  Q: Am I required to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims service?
    A: No. Unless otherwise stated, your insurance policy requires only that you report the accident and tell the insurance company where it can inspect your car.

Back to top

3.  Q: I was told to take my vehicle to a specific repair facility. Am I required to do this?
    A: No. Unless your policy states otherwise, you may take your vehicle to any ACCA member or the collision repair facility of your choice.

Back to top

4.  Q: If my vehicle is not drivable, or if I feel it is not safe to drive, what should I do?
    A: Select the collision repair facility of your choice.  Ask the manager to have your vehicle towed to the facility.  Then contact your insurance company and advise them of the vehicle's location

Back to top

5.  Q: Who is responsible for the safety and quality of the repair?  Who guarantees it?
    A: The repair shop is fully responsible.

Back to top

6.  Q: If the insurance company and I do not agree on how my should be repaired, what can I do?
    A: If you have a collision claim and the insurance company appears to be unreasonable, you should first ask to talk to the supervisor of the adjuster with whom you are having a problem.  Attempt to settle the matter with him or her.  If that fails, contact your insurance agent or th association office if they are an ACCA member.  If you are still unable to settle the matter, you should contact the Arizona Department of Insurance at (602) 912-8400.

Back to top

7.  Q: What can I do to assure quality repairs in a timely manner?
    A: Bring your vehicle to an ACCA member facility.  Contact your insurance company or agent to report the accident and tell them who you will choose to repair your vehicle.

Back to top

8.  Q: If I'm not at fault in the accident should I use my policy or try to collect from the other driver?
    A: Try to collect from the other driver's policy.  You won't have to pay a deductible and are entitled to a rental car while yours is being repaired.  No accident will be charged against your policy.

Back to top