 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Consumer Rights
When You Have to Get Your Automobile Repaired, Keep In Mind That A New York State Law* Protects Your Right To Select The Repair Shop Of Your Choice……….. don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!!! *N.Y. State Law, Section 176C. As per If the damage to your car exceeds $1000.00 N.Y. State requires you to fill out DMV form 104.
Your Agent
Your insurance agent or claims representative will determine the coverage you are entited to, based on the type of insurance purchased by you. Once properly notified by you, the insurance company has six business days to inspect your vehicle (if more damage observed after being dismantles, it has two more days to re-inspect it, once adequately notified). Always remember that your agent must negotiate in good faith with you. You are entitled to a prompt, fair settlement to repair your car to its pre-accident condition. This includes parts of like, kind and quality equal to original equipment.
Your Options
Keep in mind that, despite the agent’s suggestions, he cannot dictate to you just where your vehicle should be repaired. He – or the claims representative – may try to steer you to one of its drive-in service centers, but you have the right to shop around, if you do not know a local or favorite repair-shop.
Written Estimate
While you are not required by law or your agent or claims representative to get more than one estimate, you may do that.
Your Repair Shop
You have the right to legally designate the repair shop you have selected to negotiate a fair claim settlement with your insurance company
Authorization
Remember, you must give your permission for the work to proceed, preferably by signing off on the work order prepared by the repair shop.
Paperwork
It’s important to keep all the paper work associated with the repair of your vehicle, in case you have a complaint or misunderstanding about the scope of the repairs.
Review Invoice Carefully
Look over it carefully. It will tell you about the parts replaced, their cost, the labor charges and our warranties. Compare it with the original estimate prepared for you.
Complaints
If you do have complaints about how the insurance company or the repair shop that handled your case, you may contact the:
N.Y. State Department of Insurance
25 Beaver Street, N.Y. 10004
The Consumer Services Phone Number
212 / 480-6400
About Auto Body Repair Shops
Most are small, privately-owned companies who stay in business as a result of the high quality work they offer and their ability to remain competitive, even as they stay up to date with the latest developments in automobile design and technology.