Experiencing a road accident can be a frustrating and shattering event. One of the main concerns for many individuals is thinking about when their vehicle repairs will start. Understanding the duration for repairs can be significantly less intense and help you make well-informed decisions.
Understanding the Road Accident Aftermath
The moment after an accident can be confusing. Once you have ensured everyone is safe and reported the accident to the insurance, your next step is estimating your vehicle’s damage. However, before the repairs can start, several steps need to be taken.
1. Claim with Your Insurance Provider
One of the steps after an accident is to file a compensation claim with your insurance provider. It’s important to speak to your insurer as soon as possible to ensure that you meet any timelines or requirements for a claim. The insurance will assess the circumstances, and this includes:
- Insurance claim investigation: Your insurance representative will review the accident circumstances, interviewing you and other individuals involved. This may take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the difficulty of the claim.
- Repairs Estimate: The insurance company instructs the engineers to inspect your vehicle and provide an estimate for repairs. The sooner you speak to them, the earlier this process can be initiated.
2. Decide on a Repairer
After your claim is submitted and your insurance company begins its evaluation, the next step is to choose a garage. You have the choice to:
- Choose a recommended repairer: Many insurance providers have partnerships with some repair shops or garages, which can speed up the claims process and reduce your expenses.
- Appoint an independent shop: If you prefer a specific garage or body shop, that choice is agreeable as long as the garage is approved and reliable.
Choosing the approved garage can affect how quickly the repairs will start.
3. Approving Repair Estimates
Once you’ve selected a repair shop, they will commence their inspection of the vehicle and provide you with a repair estimate report. This process can take some time, depending on the workload and the nature of the damage.
What to Expect from the Estimate:
- Thorough assessment: An in-depth inspection that determines the parts needed and the duration required for repairs.
- Cost Estimation: The repair estimate provides a breakdown of costs, labour, replaced parts, and any additional fees.
After receiving the repair estimate, it’s necessary to check it carefully and make sure you understand all costs. You may need to approve the repairs before repairs can start, and this needs communication between you, the repair shop, and your insurance company.
4. Approval from Your Insurance Company
Once you agree with the estimate, the repair shop will send it to your insurance company for review and approval. The duration it takes for the insurance to approve the repairs can differ. If the estimate lines up with the insurance assessment, approval can be granted within the same day to a couple of days.
What Could Delay Approval from Insurance?
- Disputes on the evaluation: If the insurance company does not agree with the repair shop’s repair estimate, it can lead to delays as both parties negotiate.
- Supplementary claims: Sometimes, additional damage may become visible after the repair work has started, requiring further evaluation.
5. Scheduling Repair
Once you have approval from your insurance provider, the vehicle repairs can officially start.
Dealy in Scheduling Repair:
- Garage workload: Busy repair shops or garages may have a backlog of work. It depends on their current workload; it can take a few days or weeks before your vehicle repairs are scheduled.
- Availability of Parts: If your vehicle requires specific parts that are hard to find or need to be ordered, this can further delay the start of repairs.
6. What to Do While Awaiting Vehicle Repairs
While waiting for your vehicle repairs, you might be feeling disturbed, especially if you depend on your car for daily activities. Here are some steps:
- Rental Vehicle: Some insurance policies provide rental coverage, allowing you to rent a vehicle while yours is being repaired. Check your insurance policy to see what features are available.
- Stay in touch: Stay connected with the repair shop to stay updated on the status of repairs.
- Check Your Insurance Policy: Understanding what your insurance policy covers can help you manage your expenses.
Types of Damages After an Accident
We handle your claim and get your vehicle repaired from our approved garages to guarantee it is roadworthy. Vehicle Damages include:
- Dent & Scratches
- Bumper Repair & Replacement
- Windscreen Replacement
- Mechanical Repairs
- Headlights Repairs
- Alloy Wheel Repairs
- Vehicle paint Repairs
- Structural Repairs
- Glass Repairs
- Electric vehicle Repairs
Importance of Understanding the Repairs Process
Having an understanding of the repair process can be beneficial for vehicle owners. Not only does it provide you with the knowledge to identify and point out minor damages before they increase, but it also permits you to make decisions when your car needs attention. When you understand the steps involved in repairs, you can communicate more effectively with technicians and avoid additional expenses. It gives you peace of mind and makes sure your car is in good hands during the repair process.
Reputable & Reliable Service Providers
Choosing a reputable and reliable service provider is picky in guaranteeing quality repairs and maintenance. The garages offer several benefits, such as:
- They have certified technicians with vast experience across various vehicle types and models. This assures you that your vehicle is handled by professionals who understand its needs.
- They use advanced diagnostic tools to identify issues, ensuring effective and efficient vehicle repairs.
- They provide transparent price and service records, which are key for warranty and future vehicle repairs.
Regular visits to a reputable workshop for routine checks and unexpected repairs help maintain your vehicle’s performance and its resale value.
Why Us?
Accident Claims Assist has a wide network of approved repairers across the UK.
We have expert technicians capable of all types of vehicle repair from minor to any major damage because of the accident. Our team of expert technicians is qualified to a high standard on all vehicles. Insurance-approved repair center.
- Fully equipped garage
- Car & Commercial spray ovens
- Collection & Delivery
- Courtesy vehicles
- Wheel Alignments and Repairs
- Alloy Wheel Refurbishment
- Air Conditioning Repairs
- Vehicle Tracking and Installation
