Can I have my car inspected and repaired at DeVille?
Yes you can! Learn more about What Insurance Companies Do Not Want you to Know.
Remember: You choose your car! You choose your insurance company ! YOU CHOOSE YOUR BODY SHOP!
What should I do if I am involved in an accident?
No matter how minor, it is wise to report every accident to the police. Then, contact the registered collision repair shop of your choice. Your independent repair shop can assist you with the processing of your claim, answer your questions, and advise you to ensure safe and proper repairs are made to your vehicle.
What do I do when my vehicle is not drivable?
If your vehicle needs to be towed the police will call a towing company. Then call the collision shop of your choice immediately. Let the towing company know the name of your chosen collision shop and ask to have your vehicle towed to that location. If your chosen collision shop is closed, have your vehicle towed directly to your home, pay all charges, then contact your shop the next morning. WARNING: DO NOT SIGN ANY FORMS UNLESS YOU ASK WHAT THEY MEAN.
Do I have to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims center or get multiple appraisals?
No. If you request it, your insurer must inspect the damage to your vehicle at your chosen collision repair shop rather than at their drive-in claims center. They are legally prohibited from coercing or using any tactics intended to prevent you from seeking damage appraisals from your own body shop rather than their drive-in facility.
Do I have to use a specific collision repair facility?
No. In New York, you have the absolute right to select the collision repair shop of your choice. When your insurer gives you a list of registered repair shops, they likely will have indicated those shops which have entered into a contract with them. The contract determines how your vehicle will be repaired and encourages the use of imitation replacement parts. By choosing an insurance-preferred or –referral shop, you may be giving up your rights in the repair process.
What is”steering?“
Steering is the act of directing a claimant to or away from any specific repair shop or requiring that repairs be made by a specific repair shop or individual. Steering is illegal in New York.
Learn more about What Insurance Companies Do Not Want you to Know.
Remember: You choose your car! You choose your insurance company ! YOU CHOOSE YOUR BODY SHOP!
How do I know if I am being steered?
If you are told that it will take longer to get your car repaired or cost more if you choose your own shop, BEWARE. You are probably being steered. Comments such as, “They’re not on our list,” “It may take longer if you use this shop,” “We won’t guarantee the work if you bring the car there,” or “We won’t pay the difference” are misleading and usually untrue.
New York has strong consumer protection laws that require insurance companies to expedite appraisals within specific time frames. Insurance companies are required to negotiate in good faith with any registered collision repair facility on the proper cost to repair the vehicle to pre-accident condition. You pay insurance premiums and contract to pay a specific deductible in the event repairs are required. In effect, you’ve already paid for proper repairs. Don’t be intimidated. Steering is illegal in NEW YORK.
Who guarantees the workmanship for the repairs?
The repair facility is responsible for the workmanship. Insurance companies do not repair automobiles. If there is a concern, even with a facility selected by the insurance company, the facility itself is responsible. Every collision repair shop registered as a Motor Vehicle Repair Shop is required to be bonded and is responsible for safe and proper repairs. If your insurance company claims they “will not guarantee the repairs,” don’t worry. The repair facility must guarantee them, as required by law.
Why should I choose my own collision repair facility rather than one “suggested” by the insurance company?
There are compelling reasons to choose an independent, trusted repair shop that you know will make sure the vehicle is truly restored to its pre-accident condition. Insurance appraisers work for the insurance company. Independent auto collision repair facilities work for you. They are looking out for your best interest. They will negotiate directly with the insurance company for the proper repairs so that your vehicle is safe for you and your family. Independent collision repairers look out for your interests and will serve as your advocate in the repair process.
Preferred or referral repair shops represent the insurance company inn both negotiations and the repair of the vehicle. They contract with insurance companies regarding the repairs, costs and repair procedures. The insurance company sets the rules and the repair shop simply follows them to keep the insurance companies’ costs down. These cost reductions have to come from somewhere. They may affect the quality and thoroughness of the repair service and/or the quality and condition of the parts used. You have paid your insurance premiums with the expectation of receiving safe and proper repairs – not cheap repairs.
What are imitation or non-OEM parts?
Imitation parts (a.k.a. generic, aftermarket, quality replacement or non-original equipment manufacturer) are “knock-off” parts made by a company other than the manufacturer of your vehicle. These parts are made to look like your vehicle’s parts, but may never have been crash tested and not covered under your vehicle manufacturer’s warranty. In its February 1999 issue, Consumer Reports published the results of its extensive study of non-OEM parts. The cover story was entitled, Shoddy Auto Parts: How To Beat Car Repair Rip-Offs, Bumpers That Shatter, Parts That Don’t Fit, Fenders That Rust.
In addition to these concerns, there are no provisions for recalls based on the safety or performance of these parts. Your insurance company may attempt to use imitation parts to save money on your vehicle’s repairs. An independent collision repair facility will help you negotiate with your insurance company for the appropriate original equipment manufacturer’s parts to maintain the integrity and value of your vehicle.