How to Respond in a Tough Situation
Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does
happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues
are handled with as little stress as possible.
- First of all - stay calm.
- If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical
help.
- Make sure you call the police.
- Don't publicly make any statements where you either
accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame
yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
- Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had
a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's
important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record.
Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
- Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance
information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to
provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a
flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
- In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get
their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and
that they get the same information from you.
- Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses
as well.
- Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of
what could have caused the accident.
- Write down pertinent details such as where the accident
took place, what the weather was like, etc.
- Once the information's exchanged, report the accident
to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your
fault.
- Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't
be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your
coverage and payments.
- Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign
anything if you don't understand it.
- When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your
vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you
are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right
to choose the shop to do your repairs.
- Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to
dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might
insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as
they are more expensive.
You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle,
and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used
in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide
for yourself.
- An insurance company also has the right to inspect your
vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require
you to visit one of their own claim centers.
- And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident,
but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident
once in a while - it's just something that happens.
Remember - Drive Safely!
Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at
423-396-3239 or make an appointment
online!
What People Say About Us
Last summer an auto repair shop on Little Debbie Pky as well as another auto repair shop close to Cleveland said their computer analysis revealed a need of AC compressor on my 2015 vehicle at tunes of a few K's. I was referred to Fausto's by a fellow at Auto Zone to get Fausto's analysis. Computer analysis revealed that the compressor was working fine but unit was overcharged with freon. Freon was put at proper level and oil put on compressor and issues were fixed! AC was cooling properly again. You could have told me I needed a new compressor and I would have believed you! Thank you Brianna and Fausto's and team for your concern, care, honesty and excellent service. I will be returning for ALL my car's needs.
I have been coming to Fausto's Power Garage for years, and have always found the service to be excellent. Saturn told me that my old Saturn would always burn a lot of oil. Fausto showed me what part needed to be replaced and fixed it. When my air-conditioning went out at 4:00 on a Friday, Fausto stayed late to get it fixed before the weekend. I can't say enough about the quality of their service.
This is a fantastic family owned Automotive Shop. Brianna, Fausto, Cory and the other fine technicians will treat you with the upmost care and service and they strive to accommodate those with busy schedules. Great service from start to finish with quality workmanship and fast and efficient delivery times. For the quality and valued minded customer, you won't find a better Automotive shop. They will have my continued business from now on.
Very honest and reasonable.
It is never easy finding a mechanic when you have an old air cooled volkswagen. Not only was Fausto's willing to do the work, but Fausto took extra time to track down parts that would save me some money. It's good to know that when I need a repair I will not have to keep trying different mechanics; I just need to call Fausto!
I was on my way home from work one day when I noticed my rear tire was very low. I called Briana to see if they could patch it up for me (it was 10 minutes to close). They didn't shy away from inviting me over?they were happy to help!
