Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I set up an Insurance claim?
- Do I need more than one estimate?
- Should I drive my car after an accident?
- Are you open on weekends?
- Will the parts be ordered before I drop off my car for the repairs?
- How is a vehicle determined a "total loss"?
- Can you match the factory paint color?
- Can I have other work done on my car while it is in your shop?
- How long will the repairs on my vehicle take?
- Can I get a ride home or to work when I drop off my car?
- How can I get a rental car set up for the day I drop off my car?
- How will I know my car is completed?
- Is there a warranty for the repairs to my car?
- Do I have to pay my deductible?
- What forms of payment do you accept?
- What are betterment or depreciation charges?
- Can I drop my car off after hours?
- How should I care for my car after the repairs are complete?
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.
Don't forget you can contact us 24 hrs a day through our website.
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.
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 through Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm, exluding 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 the 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 your 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".
If the damage to your vehicle is so severe that it cannot be safely repaired, this is known as a "structural total loss".
The vast majority of total loss situations are "economic total losses".
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 paint 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.
Can I have other work done on my vehicle while it is in your shop?
We are equipped to handle many other related repairs and services including:
- Glass Replacement
- Wheel alignments
- Bed Liners
- Factory Accessories
- Minor Mechanical Service
- Exterior / Interior detailing
- Towing
- Paintless dent removal
- Gold plating
- Painted pin striping
- Vinyl Stripes / Graphics
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.
Once 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.
Can I get a ride home or to work when I drop off my car?
We would 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 more than happy to look into this for you.
How can I get a rental car set up for the day I drop off my car?
We work closely with Enterprise Rent-a-Car. When you arrive at one of our shops, we will contact Enterprise and they will pick you up and take care of your rental vehicle.
How will I know my car is completed?
Our staff will notify you when the repairs are completed and ready for pick-up. We will also contact you throughout the repair process. We can also notify you via e-mail if you choose.
Is there a warranty for the repairs to my car?
All of our repairs are backed by a LIFETIME written warranty, given to you at the completion of the repair.
Do I have to pay my deductible?
Yes, it is mandated by your insurance policy that you pay your deductible to the body shop at the completion of your repairs. If you are not at fault in your loss, you will be compensated by your insurance company directly.
If you are not sure of who's liable for your claim, we can help you find out.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept insurance checks, bank or cashier checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, debit cards, and personal checks less than $500.
You will be notified of our full payment terms when you drop-off your vehicle for repairs.
What are betterment or depreciation charges?
These are charges determined by your insurance carrier on parts that have a specific lifetime associated with them or wear out over time. These charges are pro-rated based on the year and mileage of your vehicle.
Examples of these parts are radiators, exhaust components, tires, and specific suspension parts just to name a few.
If your repair includes the replacement of parts that are partially (or fully) depreciated, you may be responsible for paying for the portion of these parts that you "used up" before the loss occured.
Again, these charges are determined by your insurance carrier and are outside of our control.
Can I drop my car off after hours?
Absolutely. Simply let your Customer Service Rep know, and they will explain the process and tell you the location of our night drop box.
How should I care for my car after the repairs are complete?
Once your vehicle has been returned to you, you will be able to hand wash it as normal. We recommend that you do not use a mechanical car wash for at least two weeks after repairs are completed. Also, we suggest you do not apply any wax or sealer to any of the newly painted surfaces for at least one month.
Be aware that tree sap, bird droppings, and road tar can stain or mar the finish to fresh or factory paint, so keep your vehicle clean of this material for the best possible appearance.