Frequently Asked Questions for Our Customers
How do I set up an insurance claim? – Contact your insurance company and report the accident…this will begin the claims process. Tell them you have chosen to have your collision repairs performed at Collision Solutions. Contact us directly and our customer service representatives will guide you through the entire repair process. We are direct repair providers for many insurance companies, meaning we can make the process simple and convenient for you.
Do I need more than one estimate? – There is no law requiring you to provide more than one estimate to your insurance company. Where your vehicle is repaired is always your choice. Your insurance company may choose to send an appraiser to your home or our shop to determine the amount of the loss. |
What if the estimate I got from the insurance company is different from yours? – Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not have included all necessary work. If you are not sure why one estimate is different from another you’ve received please ask and we will be happy to go over it with you.
Should I drive my vehicle after an accident? – It really depends on the extent of your damage. Generally speaking, if you have any lights out or your vehicle doesn’t feel like it is operating safely, (such as parts rubbing tires or not driving straight), give us a call and we can arrange for your vehicle to be towed. You may also request to have your vehicle towed to one of our shops directly from the accident scene. We would be glad to help you determine your vehicle’s safety by simply dropping by one of our locations.
Are you open on weekends? – Our business hours are Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm, excluding major holidays. Depending on the circumstances and our availability, we can sometimes arrange for an appointment outside of our normal business hours.
Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my car for repairs? – Typically, parts are ordered once we have confirmed that all damaged items have been identified. If your vehicle has the potential for hidden damage, then your parts will be ordered once it has been disassembled and an accurate parts order can be generated. If all the damage is visible, then your parts may be ordered prior to you vehicle’s arrival. On most popular makes and models, we can receive parts in 48 hours or less.
Should I drive my vehicle after an accident? – It really depends on the extent of your damage. Generally speaking, if you have any lights out or your vehicle doesn’t feel like it is operating safely, (such as parts rubbing tires or not driving straight), give us a call and we can arrange for your vehicle to be towed. You may also request to have your vehicle towed to one of our shops directly from the accident scene. We would be glad to help you determine your vehicle’s safety by simply dropping by one of our locations.
Are you open on weekends? – Our business hours are Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm, excluding major holidays. Depending on the circumstances and our availability, we can sometimes arrange for an appointment outside of our normal business hours.
Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my car for repairs? – Typically, parts are ordered once we have confirmed that all damaged items have been identified. If your vehicle has the potential for hidden damage, then your parts will be ordered once it has been disassembled and an accurate parts order can be generated. If all the damage is visible, then your parts may be ordered prior to you vehicle’s arrival. On most popular makes and models, we can receive parts in 48 hours or less.
How is a vehicle determined a “total loss”? – When your insurance company determines the repair costs will exceed your vehicle’s value, this is known as an “economic total loss”. At this point, your insurance company will contact you to settle your claim. You also have the right to keep your vehicle if you'd like to retain it.
Can you match the factory paint color? – We guarantee that the factory color will be matched, as long as all painting is completed in accordance with factory suggested procedures. We use the finest automotive paints and processes available. If your vehicle has had prior paint work or mismatched paint, additional charges may apply for us to be able to match the existing finish.
How long will the repairs on my vehicle take? – Repair times depend on the extent of the damage, parts availability, and whether additional damage is discovered once the repair process is underway. One an initial repair plan is generated, our customer service representative will be able to give you an estimated completion date. The estimated completion date could change if additional damage is discovered or if parts are backordered or unavailable, however we will keep you updated throughout the process.
What’s the difference between OEM, aftermarket, and used parts? – OEM parts are manufactured by the maker of your vehicle. Non-OEM parts, often called aftermarket parts, are made by third party vendors. Many insurance companies recommend less expensive non-OEM parts for the repair of damaged vehicles because it keeps insurance costs down, The industry views non-OEM parts as quality replacements that are guaranteed and a reasonable alternative to OEM parts. LKQ (like kind and quality) are used or salvage OEM parts. They are factory used parts off a vehicle similar to yours.
Can I get a ride home or to work when I drop off my car? – We will be glad to shuttle you locally to work or home, however please check your insurance policy for alternate transportation coverage which may provide you with a rental car. Most policies now have rental coverage. If you are not sure or time does not permit, just provide our customer service representatives with your policy number and we would be happy to look into this for you.