This is always the situation after a car accident most of the drivers are left with the nightmare of dealing with the smash repairs. It is here that insurance comes handy; basically it is a safety net for those who own vehicles. Stepping into the world of car smash repair, it is crucial to know when and how the insurance comes into play because it will determine how a car owner will get their car fixed and the costs involved.
Understanding Smash Repairs
Smash repairs on the other hand are defined as the repair of automobiles that have been involved in accidents or have collision. The body repair work may therefore involve straightforward repainting and replacement of panels with others that have been scratched or damaged to some extent, right through to complete structural reconstructions. Considering the costs which may be incurred in these repairs, insurance is very important for a client.
Types of Insurance Coverage
There are generally two types of car insurance that cover smash repairs: third party insurance and, third party + comprehensive insurance.
Comprehensive Insurance: This is also the most comprehensive type of coverage. Auto insurance refers to the coverage of your car when it is involved in an accident, stolen, vandalized or otherwise damaged in an event. In case of a smash, you will be able to claim to have your vehicle repaired if you have comprehensive insurance.
Third-Party Insurance: This coverage is compulsory in many area and pay only for harm that you might have inflicted to other people’s vehicles or property in an accident. This means, if you are liable for an accident while operating a vehicle with third party insurance, the costs of repairs are on you unless you have comprehensives coverage.
The Insurance Claims Process
In case of an accident, the first thing is to inform your insurer, the company with which you have your insurance policy. The process typically involves the following steps:
1. Report the Accident: In the event, you must positively ascertain the wellbeing of all the people involved in the accident then call your insurance company. You need to have certain information ready such as date, time, location and what happened.
2. Claim Assessment: Once a claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will carry out an estimation of the freeze on your vehicle. They may ask that you bring your car to an authorised repairer for an assessment or they may organise for someone to look at it themselves. The adjuster will then ascertain the amount of loss and assessment of the repair expenses.
3. Approval and Repair: At the end of the assessment, the insurance company will accept the claim or ask for more information. In case of approval, you can have your car repaired at an approved auto repair shop or any auto repair of your preference. Almost all insurance companies have a large list of preferred repairers with whom the dealing with the insurer is much easier and less time consuming.
4. Payment: Where it is present, most of the insurance companies either pay the repair shops directly or you pay them and are given back your money later in accordance with your policy. A policyholder should ensure he understands the details of renewal to be sure of no hidden costs.
Why it is Important to Select the Right Repairer
It is vital to choose a good smash repairer because the work may require some measure of level of craftsmanship. Despite what insurance company has in mind for your car you normally have the right to choose on your own repairer. When choosing independent mechanics, therefore, you should take your time and look for reviews and ask for recommendations to be assured of your car is in safe hands.
The Wall