There are many factors the length of time the repairs will take. To restore your vehicle to pre accident condition, there are several stages and repairs that will be required so if the vehicle is involved in another accident, it will perform the same way to keep you safe. Repairs on average can take from 5 days to 3 weeks depending on the extent of damage and the repairs the vehicle requires.

No, you do not. You have the right to use the repair shop of your choice. It is always best to do your research and find the shop that you trust. Just because the shop you want to use wasn’t the shop recommended, not all repair shops will have partnerships with all insurance companies.

The average person gets into an accident once every few years. You may not have a shop that you know or you may have had a bad experience before. First and foremost, use a reputable repair shop. The repair shop should stand behind their repairs for the life that you own the vehicle. The repair shop must repair the vehicle using manufacturer required repairs. The shop should explain the process, your rights, and make you feel comfortable.

The deductible is the amount that you agree with the insurance company to pay for any repairs. After paying your deductible, the insurance company will pay for the additional costs to repair your vehicle, less any deductions or up to the policy limits.

You do not need to file a claim to have your vehicle repaired. You or another party can pay for it out of pocket, but it depends on your goals, your coverages, the cost of repairs, and if another party is involved. If there are 2 or more parties involved, it is recommended to go through the “At fault” party’s insurance.

A collision claim is when a vehicle is moving and hits another vehicle or object or when the vehicle is hit while parked. A comprehensive claim is the result of a vehicle damaged by a cause other than collision. Comprehensive claims include acts of nature (wind, storms, water, or animals), theft, fire, vandalism, or falling objects.

It is recommended to file an insurance claim if multiple vehicles are involved in a collision. Being the vehicle hit, you would be considered the Liability for the “at fault” party’s insurance claim or the Claimant. As the claimant, your insurance policy would not be affected unless the other party is under insured or not insured. You are entitled to a rental car while your vehicle is being fixed.

You can always get a rental vehicle to support your lifestyle while your vehicle is being repaired. If your vehicle is safely drivable, then you must wait until your vehicle is scheduled and dropped off for the repairs. Whether or not it will be covered by the insurance company will depend on a few factors. If you have rental coverage on your policy, you are able to rent a vehicle while your vehicle is being repaired. If you are the claimant, you are entitled to a replacement vehicle while your vehicle is being repaired.

If your vehicle is not safely drivable, you can get a rental car once the claim is filed. If your vehicle is safely drivable, you must wait until the vehicle has been scheduled for the repairs or you would be responsible to pay for the replacement vehicle until your scheduled repair date.

The insurance company has the obligation to restore your vehicle to “pre accident condition.” When an insurance company dictates there are betterment charges, betterment is when a replaced part is “better” than pre accident condition. Betterment typically refers to parts that receive wear and tear. Tires and some mechanical parts are common examples.

It depends on your driving habit. If you drive on a regular basis or could not conduct your normal lifestyle without your vehicle for a week or two, it would be recommended to have rental coverage on your policy. The cost of the coverage is typically low and comparable to needing a rental vehicle for a few days. You may need to pay for the rental vehicle up front, and the insurer will reimburse you.

When you drive a rental car, your insurance company will cover the rental vehicle the same as if it was your own. If the vehicle is damaged, you would be required to pay your deductible and it may affect your policy. It may be in your best interest to get it if your vehicle is prone to damage. You are responsible for the vehicle, any dents, scratches, or accidents. The other situation it may be in your best interest is if you were the “at fault” party, and you want to avoid the risk of a second claim if the rental vehicle is damaged while rented.