What should I do after an accident?

Get the name of the person(s) driving the other vehicle(s) involved along with their phone number, driver’s license, vehicle license, insurance information. Also try to obtain any witness’ name and number. Note the location, time and date. And, if you have a camera, take pictures. IMPORTANT: If the person(s) driving the vehicle(s) involved is unwilling to provide this information or if they do not have a driver’s license and insurance, then you have a problem, and you should notify the police and your insurance agent immediately.

Contact the shop of your choice and have them set up a tow or appointment to get your vehicle in the shop. If you need alternative transportation and have rental coverage or the other party’s insurance is paying the bill, ask the shop to set up the rental for you.

Contact the Insurance Company responsible and let them know where the vehicle is and/or where it is going and ask for a claim number. If the Insurance Company wants to examine your vehicle at your house or in their claims center, you have the choice of doing this, or you can inform the Insurance Company that you are dropping the vehicle at the shop of your choice and they can see the vehicle there. Remember, you’re free to choose.

Call the shop and give them the claim number. From this point on, the shop will negotiate on your behalf to insure that your vehicle will be returned to pre-loss condition.

Do I need three estimates?

No. Massachusetts law states your only obligation is to choose the shop of your choice and inform the insurance company where the vehicle is going.

What if an insurance company refuses to work with the shop of my choice?

By law, an insurance company cannot refuse your request and must negotiate with the registered shop of your choice. It is in both parties’ best interest to get your vehicle repaired and back to you as quickly as possible, without charging you extra. The Insurance Commissioner does not tolerate delaying the repair through unlawful practices.

Can the insurance company make me go to their claims center for an estimate?

No. You can drop the vehicle off at the shop of your choice and they will schedule an insurance adjuster to come out. If you do go to their claims center, accept the estimate and the check they give you. However, do not sign anything that states you accept their check as payment in full. The insurance company realizes the repair shop may call with additional damage costs.

Can you match the paint color of my vehicle?

Paint is mixed in our Dupont computerized paint mixing room by our experienced technicians. Color match is achieved using Dupont’s Chromovision Camera. In some cases, due to fading of the original paint, etc. blending may be required into adjacent panels to achieve a satisfactory finished appearance.

Can I get a ride home when I drop off my vehicle?

Our staff will gladly give you a ride home or to your place of employment and arrange to pick you up when the repairs are completed.

How can I get a rental car?

Rick’s Auto Collision works with local car rental companies. They will meet you at our shop or we can give you a ride to their facility. If you do not have rental coverage on your vehicle, we have loaner vehicles you can use while repairs are being done.

Where do I get a claim number?

If your agent or insurance company has not already given you a claim number, Rick’s Auto Collision will contact them on your behalf to obtain the claim number for reference on your repair order.

If your agent or insurance company has not already given you a claim number, Rick’s Auto Collision will contact them on your behalf to obtain the claim number for reference on your repair order.

Rick’s Auto Collision uses a state-of-the-art measuring system and our highly skilled technicians to return your vehicle to its original factory specifications. If it is determined the frame section is bent beyond repair, that section can be replaced.

How long will the repairs take?

As soon as the estimate is written, we can tell you the anticipated length of time for repairs. If additional damage is found after teardown, the estimator will contact you immediately to advise of any additional repair time.

Is there a warranty on the repairs?

Rick’s offers a lifetime warranty on repairs as long as you own the vehicle.

Do I have to have used parts on my vehicle?

Rick’s Auto Collision writes estimates using OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer). However, some insurance companies will only pay for used or aftermarket parts. We suggest you review your policy or discuss this with your agent. When used or aftermarket parts are used by Rick’s Auto Collision, they are subject to our inspection for quality and fit.

When can I wash my vehicle?

Use only a ‘touch free’ car wash within the first 30 days. Do not wax or polish the vehicle. Avoid parking the vehicle in areas where bird droppings could damage the freshly painted surface.

Who do I pay my deductible to?

It is your responsibility to pay the deductible to Rick’s Auto Collision at the time you pick up your vehicle. If you do not know the amount of your deductible, your agent can tell you.

What forms of payment do you accept?

The easiest form of payment is with a major credit card. We accept Visa and MasterCard. In addition, cash and local checks are welcome.

The easiest form of payment is with a major credit card. We accept Visa and MasterCard. In addition, cash and local checks are welcome.

The estimator will keep you informed as repairs progress, and will call you in advance to let you know when the vehicle will be complete.