Claims Pocess

What are the first steps to take following an auto accident?

At Olympic Auto Body & Sales we know that your car is the second largest investment you are likely to make. To protect its value, you want to be sure your selected auto collision shop has the required licenses to operate in Massachusetts and uses certified technicians (like the I-CAR trained staff we have at Olympic Auto Body & Sales). The technology on site should include computerized uni-body straightening equipment, a factory approved/accepted paint mixing system, and a down draft spray/bake Booth, to insure a pre-accident factory like finish.

What to do at the scene of an auto accident

  1. Bring vehicle to a complete STOP, without obstructing any traffic and shut of the ignition.
  2. Assist any injured parties involved in the accident that need help and have someone call the police or 911 for medical assistance. Repeat after 5 minutes.
  3. Record names, phone numbers and addresses of other drivers, witnesses, injured persons.
  4. Record make, model and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.
  5. If possible, record a rough drawing of scene, showing positions of cars and other details.
  6. If possible take pictures of the accident scene.
  7. Don’t hastily accept claim settlement at scene of accident.
  8. Remain calm, courteous and consistent in your version of accident.
  9. Never drive a car that could be unsafe because of damages.
  10. Notify us as soon as possible or if after hours call our affiliated 24/7 Towing Service to have your vehicle towed to our shop.

How do I get a rental car to use while I await repairs?

If you need a rental car and have the necessary coverage on your policy, we can help you make the arrangements and have it delivered to our location at the time of your appointment. If your vehicle is not drivable and will be towed to our shop, we can arrange to have the Rental delivered to your home or arrange for a ride to our shop. In the event that you are not at fault and have the other party’s information that was involved in your accident, we will help you get the rental authorized through the other party’s insurance company. We will also offer a ride home to you when you drop off or pick up your vehicle, if needed.

Supported by a team of qualified technicians, Arthur has participated in the widely respected industry-recognized “I-CAR” Auto Collision Training.

At Olympic Auto Body & Sales, we also offer used car sales, towing, mobile electronics purchases and installations, custom paint and design including airbrushing, paint-less dent removal, clear front-end shields, and minor mechanical repairs.

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Do insurance companies require I take my vehicle to a drive-in claims center, and are multiple appraisals required?

By law, insurance companies are legally prohibited from forcing or coercing you to use their appraisal services. In fact, we at Olympic Auto Body & Sales highly recommend you seek an independent appraisal on site where you anticipate the repair will be made.

Some insurance companies will ask that you visit their drive-in claims center before having your car repaired. If your car is fit to drive, you can opt to do this, or you may leave your car at your selected repair shop and ask that the insurance company inspect the car here.

Know that some insurers work in contract with specific auto body shops, and base estimates on using imitation replacement parts .If you don’t have a relationship with a particular Body Shop, then multiple estimates would be recommended but if we are your preferred Body Shop, then let the insurance company requesting the estimates know that you will only accept the repairs to your vehicle to be done by Olympic Auto Body, therefore you will only obtain an estimate from us.

It is important for you to trust the auto body you choose to protect the investment in your vehicle to original factory conditions and quality.

If I get more than one estimate, should I go with the lowest one?

Differences in repair estimates are common, and a lower estimate may not include all necessary work. We would be glad to detail the exact repair work we will be doing on your vehicle and compare it with other estimates.

What is “steering”?

The Massachusetts Auto Damage Appraisers Licensing Board defines steering as “the act of directing a claimant to or away from any specific auto body repair shop or requiring that repairs be made by a specific repair shop or individual.”

Steering is illegal in Massachusetts. Be forewarned – steering often appears with comments suggesting that it will take longer or cost more to get your car repaired your on auto body shop.

If I assert my rights to get an independent appraisal, can my insurance company cancel my policy?

Absolutely not. Massachusetts’ law states that you policy can only be cancelled for non- payment or fraudulent acts, and only after you first receive proper notification.

What is considered “a total loss” on a vehicle?

Even vehicles with damaged frames are often repaired to original factory condition due to advances in computer measuring systems offered at expert collision repair facilities like Olympic Auto Body & Sales. A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs plus the salvage value of your vehicle excides its current retail value.

Am I required to pay a deductible?

Deductibles vary depending on your insurance policy. For those policies with broad collision coverageIf it is proven you were not at fault, then your insurance company most likely will waive your deductible. Insurance companies must review the accident reports filed by you and the other party (s) to determine who is at fault. If your deductible is not waived, you are responsible to pay your elected deductible when you pick up your vehicle.

To insure everyone’s safety and to produce the proper repairs to your vehicle we are unable to save deductibles.

Saving Deductibles = Cutting Corners

If the deductible is not waived, how is payment made for the repair?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express & Discover. Cash and checks are also accepted.

Are you open weekends?

Yes, by appointment only.