FAQ:

• -Can I get more than one estimate to fix my car?
  While you are not required by law or your agent or claims representative to get MORE THAN ONE ESTIMATE, you may do that.

• -Can I choose the repair shop to fix my car?
  You have the right to legally designate the repair shop you have selected to negotiate a fair claim settlement with your insurance company.

• -Is it necessary to authorize the job before it begins?
  Remember, you must give your permission for the work to proceed, preferably by signing off on the work order by the repair shop.

• -Where can I go if I have complain about the insurance or the Auto Body Shop?
  If you do have complaints about how the insurance company or the repair shop handled your case, you may contact the: N.Y. State Department of Insurance, 25 Beaver Street, N.Y. 10004

• -Can I demand to get Original Manufacturer Parts?
  When the other party's insurer is paying for repairs after an accident, you have the right to opt for original manufacturer parts instead of generic aftermarket ones. Otherwise read your policy carefully.

• -What constitutes "totaled"?
  An insurer's rule of thumb is to deem a car totaled when repairs would exceed 70 percent of the vehicle's value. But if the damage is limited to a few minor, albeit expensive, components, you can appeal your insurer's decision to total it.

• -If my car is totaled, do I need to accept my insurer's first offer?
  No. Go to Edmunds.com or AutoTrader.com to find better comps, and call the sellers listed on the insurer's report to verify their price. No dice? If it's a matter of $1000 or more, hire your own appraiser and go through an appraisal arbitration process.

Call us.