Frequently Asked Questions

The information in this Page has been prepared by the Automotive Service Professionals of Illinois’ legal counsel as a public service to the consumer.

Answer:

No one can tell you to obtain more then one estimate. You, as the vehicle owner, however, may do so should this be your desire.

Answer:

You are not required to take your vehicle to a drive-in claims facility. It is your right as the vehicle owner to obtain an estimate wherever you choose. You are only required to notify your insurance company of the vehicle’s location so that the claims adjuster may examine it. However, if you have already gone to a drive-in claims facility, make sure you take a copy of the insurance adjuster’s estimate with you when obtaining repair shop estimates and choosing a facility to repair your vehicle.

Answer:

There are no laws or regulations requiring you to go to any specific repair shop, however, some insurance companies practice the policy of only paying for vehicle damages equal to the estimate amount prepared at one of its preferred shops. However, keep in mind that you are the vehicle owner. Don’t let your insurance company take away your freedom of choice.

Answer:

Yes…Your insurance policy requires you to notify your insurance company and make a claim report. Once a claim report has been made, you may proceed to leave your vehicle at the repair facility of your choice and notify the insurance company claim representative or adjuster where your damaged vehicle may be inspected. Once a claim representative or adjuster has had an opportunity to inspect your vehicle, you may authorize repairs to begin.

Answer:

The repair shop…Your insurance company is not accepting the liability for the quality and safety of your vehicle’s repair. Therefore, you and you alone must control the fate of your vehicle’s repair by choosing a proper facility that is adequately trained and equipped to restore your automobile to its pre-accident condition. You have the legal right and authority to do so.

Answer:

Referrals from other satisfied customers is a start. The shop owner/manager should be willing to take you around the shop to give you a first hand view of the equipment and procedures being used. Also, ask to see evidence of employee training and certification. Notice the attitude and commitment of the shop owner/manager towards a quality restoration of your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

Also, note that all motor vehicle repairers and rebuilders in the State of Illinois are required by the Secretary of State to have a state repairers license posted as per Section 5-301 of the Illinois Vehicle Code. Illinois law requires that insurance companies may not do business with any automotive repair facility not licensed by the Illinois Secretary of State.

Answer:

No…Only the vehicle owner may authorize repairs. You must be presented with an estimate to know what is being repaired on your vehicle before repairs are started. Additionally, Illinois requires written estimates on repairs.

Answer:

You are…Your insurance policy states that your insurance company will pay for the damages to your vehicle, less the deductible amount. You may instruct your insurance company to pay directly to the repair shop of your choice, however, full payment must be arranged prior to your vehicle being picked up.

Answer:

Most insurance policies contain an appraisal clause. When the insurance company and the customer fail to agree, either party may demand an appraisal of loss within 60 days after the claim has been filed. Each party may then select a competent appraiser to represent them, and the two appraisers will select a competent and disinterested umpire. If the two appraisers do not agree, they submit their findings to the umpire. A decision by the umpire which agrees with either appraiser will determine the amount of loss.

Answer:

Yes, but the Director’s authority is limited! Keep in mind that the insurance director has no judicial authority to determine negligence or establish the value of a loss or injury.