Information to assist you in handling a claim with
your
insurance company
Do I have the right to select the
shop of my choice to repair my vehicle?
Yes, as the
vehicle owner you decide where, when and how that vehicle is repaired.
Must I notify
my insurance company?
Yes. Insurance policies require that you
notify the company or your agent as soon as possible after an accident.
Do I need to
get more than one estimate?
No. Only one estimate of damage
report is necessary from the repair facility of your choice. However,
the insurance company may want to have their own adjuster inspect the
damage.
If your vehicle is not safe to drive, simply
have it towed to the repair shop of your choice. When you notify your
insurance company about the accident, tell them that the vehicle is not
drivable and where it may be inspected.
Who is
responsible for paying the repair bill?
You are. The
vehicle owner must arrange for payment of the repair bill. Insurance
policies state that the insurer will reimburse you for the cost of
repairs less any deductible or depreciation. You can instruct your
insurance company to pay the repair shop directly, but make sure that
the payment is in the hands of the repair shop when you pick up your
car.
Who is responsible for the quality of repairs?
The repair
facility. It is important for you to select a repair shop with properly
trained technicians and the equipment necessary to restore your vehicle
to its pre-accident condition.
What can I do
if I have a problem with the way my insurance company is processing or
settling my claim?
You have the right to contact the Wisconsin Insurance
Commissioner's office, the agency charged with regulating and
disciplining the insurance industry. The Commissioner's Office cannot by
itself resolve damage, coverage or liability disputes, but it can
obtain written explanations from insurance companies regarding their
positions. Having a written explanation may be useful to you if you have
to resort to litigation to resolve a dispute with an insurance company.