Being in a car collision, even a small fender bender, can be frightening. Hearing the crunch of metal on metal gets the adrenaline pumping and the mind racing. Then the worries about damages and insurance start flooding in.
After a car accident, there are many things to try and stay aware of, even though it might be difficult in the circumstances. Making sure no one has been injured and exchanging contact information are the top priorities. After that, however, it’s time to start thinking about getting the vehicle repaired.
Some people dread this part of the process, but that is often due to commonly held myths about auto body shops. We thought it would be a good idea to clear up some of the confusion to help make this stressful situation a little easier to handle.
Myth: Only the dealer can repair your car
This is not true, and you are free to shop around. Especially if your car is fairly new, you will want your car repaired with OEM, or original equipment manufacturer, parts. Dealers are not the only ones with access to OEM, however and you can find a repair shop that will make an effort to price match with dealer.
Myth: Insurance companies choose which auto body shop you must go to
Insurance companies can make recommendations and refer you to certain auto body shops, but the choice is ultimately up to you.
Myth: My car will never be the same after an accident
Of course, this partly depends on how serious the accident was and how much damage there was to the vehicle. But with professional technicians working on your vehicle, the safety, functioning and aesthetics can return to what it once was.
Myth: Insurance companies cover any and all damages to your vehicle
This depends on your insurance policy. The package you chose will determine how much and what kind of damages will be covered. It also depends on the circumstances of the accident, including who was at fault and in what type of situation the accident occurred.
Myth: Insurance won’t warranty the work unless I go to one of their recommended auto body shop
Auto body shops are the ones who actually warrant the work, not the insurance company. When you are deciding on which auto body shop to take your damaged vehicle to, make sure to find out if they are licensed and that they can warranty their work for the life of the vehicle.
City driving can be stressful, whether you are in Vancouver, Richmond, New West or anywhere else in the Lower Mainland. And the conditions drivers have faced this winter have been snowier and more treacherous than most people can remember. That is why it is best to drive with added caution.
It’s always unpleasant to be in a car collision, no matter how big or small. So, do what you can to make the situation easier on yourself and other drivers on the roads. Become familiar with your insurance policy and build a relationship with an auto body shop in Vancouver that you trust. It will serve you well in the long run.