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What to do after an Accident

Getting into an accident can be a trying time. At Crestmont Cadillac we want to assist you in getting through the process with your damaged vehicle. Below we’ve provided a number of questions that customers ask after an accident has occurred, as they have never been in this situation and are unsure how to proceed. At Crestmont, our goal is to provide you with step by step information from what to do at the collision scene to assisting you with your insurance claims. Our expert teams are ready and here to assist you.
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What to do at the scene of a car accident?

Stay in your vehicle unless it is completely unsafe. Officers normally advise to stay put. Call 911 and communicate the accident, location, number of vehicles involved and if you are safe or hurt. This will allow the police and ambulance on scene as quickly as possible. 

At the accident scene, should your vehicle not be safe to drive, advise the officer you would like to have your vehicle towed by Crestmont Cadillac Collision Center or repair shop of your choice. Only having your vehicle towed once will be a savings for your insurance company. If your vehicle is safe to drive, take your vehicle to Crestmont Cadillac Collision Center or the collision facility of your choice; give them all your insurance information, asking them to advise your insurance company about the repairs.
Next, you should also contact your insurance company and advise them of the accident, where your vehicle was taken and on the damage. Some insurance companies have what is called “drive-in claims service.” It is not mandatory you use this service unless your policy states otherwise. Just inform your insurance company where their claims person can see your vehicle.

    What happens if the accident was my fault?

    If the accident is your fault, your insurance company will cover the damage to your vehicle and the other party. If the accident wasn’t your fault the other parties insurance should cover your damages; try to collect from the other insurance, this will entitle you to a rental vehicle and you won’t have to pay a deductible. 

      What is the difference between collision insurance and comprehensive insurance coverage?

      Collision insurance and comprehensive insurance may vary. Generally, collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by a collision with another object. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your automobile from incidents such as vandalism, theft or glass breakage. It is generally a good idea to periodically review your policy and ask your insurance agent what exclusions are in your policy.

        What is a deductible?

        A deductible is like a “co-pay” in health insurance. It is a portion of the repair bill that is not covered by your insurance policy. The amount is determined by your insurance policy and is first set when you first purchased your insurance.
        Deductibles are commonly $100, $250, $500 and $1000. Typically the higher your deductible amount, the lower your insurance premium.
        Your deductible is paid directly Crestmont Cadillac Collision Center when your repairs are complete. The insurance company pays us for the work performed minus your deductible. 

          Do I have to use the vehicle shop my insurance company recommends or can I take it to my personal choice collision center?

          You can always take it to Crestmont Cadillac Collision Center in Beachwood, Ohio. The insurance company cannot tell you where to repair your vehicle. At times, insurance companies with special interests will attempt to steer you to fix your vehicle at their preferred shop , a shop that gives the insurance company special offers. These offers will often come at the vehicle owner’s expense which could compromise safety and the quality of repairs.
          Remember that it is the insurance adjuster’s job to satisfy the customer and close the claim at the lowest possible cost. If you decide to use your insurance company’s preferred shop, ask if your policy contains an “elects to repair” clause, causing your insurance to be responsible for the quality of repairs and possibly loss of value. 

            Do I have to get multiple estimates?

            No, you do not need to get multiple estimates. You only need to notify your insurance representative as to where you will be having your repairs done. Your insurance company will work hand in hand with your choice of shop to insure you receive the service and quality repairs you have come to expect. 

              What happens if the insurance company’s estimate is lower than the one I get from Crestmont Cadillac?

              Insurance companies are generally willing to pay for a proper repair. The insurance company appraiser may include only the most obvious damage in their estimate. At Crestmont, we try to write as thorough an estimate as possible. Just bring the insurance estimate in with you and we can go over the differences. If necessary, we’ll notify the insurance company of the changes we need to make. Generally this just takes a phone call and we will bill your insurance company for the supplement at the completion of the repair. 

                What happens if more damage is found?

                Today’s vehicles are complex; so it can be difficult to see all the damage during the initial inspection. Therefore, finding additional damage has become very common. Estimates written without a thorough disassembly of the vehicle often have overlooked additional damages. If additional damage is found, it is documented and discussed with you and the insurance company. The insurance company may, or may not, want to come see the damage. There supplemental charges are itemized, authorized and billed along with the rest of the repairs.

                If the insurance representative wants to come see the additional damage, the repair process could be delayed from 2-5 business days. Be mindful that any additional parts found to be damaged will have to be ordered and that can lead to another delay (based on availability). 

                  What is the difference between collision insurance and comprehensive insurance coverage?

                  Collision insurance and comprehensive insurance may vary. Generally, collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by a collision with another object. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your automobile from incidents such as vandalism, theft or glass breakage. It is generally a good idea to periodically review your policy and ask your insurance agent what exclusions are in your policy. 

                    Don’t forget your personal belongings!

                    Before dropping off your vehicle, we recommend you remove your personal belongings or anything of value. Our insurance covers damage to your vehicle as a result of fire, theft, or even employee error, but it only covers the vehicle and its factory installed parts. Consequently, we do not assume liability for other items that you choose to leave in your vehicle. 

                      Does Crestmont Cadillac Collision fix any vehicle make or model?

                      Crestmont Cadillac Collision has skilled technicians that are trained to repair all makes and models of vehicles, foreign and domestic. We also have technicians who specialize in certain makes of vehicles and we have a number of factory certified technicians on staff. 

                        Does Crestmont Collision Center offer a rental car services?

                        Yes. We have a on location rental car manager that can assist you in getting into a rental vehicle and working directly with your insurance company on the payment. Our rental vehicles included both Cadillac and Hyundai fleets.