Frequently Asked Questions
We’ll deal with the insurance companies for you. We will work with any and all insurance companies to make sure your vehicle is repaired properly and in a timely manner. We know your time is valuable, so we will handle all of the negotiations for your vehicle’s repair so you don’t have to.
YES – The Automobile Repair Act of 1971 requires all repair dealers to be registered with the State of California and to post a sign. This Act [Section 9884.7(1)(g)] states that the Department of Consumer Affairs may invalidate the registration of the repair dealer for a number of causes, including:
Making any statement written or oral which is untrue or misleading;
Causing a customer to sign any work order which does not state the repairs requested by the customer;
Failing or refusing to give to a customer a copy of any document requiring his or her signature, as soon as the customer signs such document; any other conduct which constitutes fraud;
Any willful departure from or disregard of accepted trade standards for good and workman like repair.
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR ACT OF 1971, A CUSTOMER SHALL RECEIVE:
A WRITTEN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIR WORK.
A DETAILED INVOICE OF WORK DONE AND PARTS SUPPLIED.
RETURN OF REPLACED PARTS, IF REQUESTED AT THE TIME A WORK ORDER IS PLACED.
QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE ABOVE INFORMATION SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE MANAGER OF THE REPAIR FACILITY
UNRESOLVED QUESTIONS REGARDING SERVICE WORK PERFORMED MAY BE SUBMITTED TO:
BUREAU OF AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR
TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE (800) 952-5210
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
California Auto Body Association
555 University Avenue., Suite 236, Sacramento, Ca 95825
www.calautobody.com
email: contact@calautobody.com
NO – No insurer shall require the use of non-OEM (non-Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement crash parts in the repair of an automobile unless:
The parts are at least equal to the original equipment manufacturer parts in terms of quality, safety, fit and performance; and
Insurers specifying the use of non-OEM replacement crash parts shall pay the cost of any modifications to the parts which may become necessary to effect the repair;
Insurers specifying the use of non-OEM replacement crash parts warrant that such parts are of like kind, quality, safety, fit and performance as OEM replacement crash parts.
NO – Unless the referral is expressly requested by you; or you have been informed in writing of the right to select the repair facility; and The insurer that elects to repair a vehicle directs, suggests or recommends that a specific repair shop be used, shall cause the damaged vehicle to be restored to its condition prior to the loss at no additional cost to you other than as stated in the policy or as otherwise allowed by law.
YES – First consult with your insurance agent or broker. Then, if your problems still have not been resolved, consult with the Department of Insurance, State of California, at their office in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego, or telephone their toll free line: 1-800-927-4357.
Your insurance policy may provide that, when the insured and insurer fail to agree on the amount of loss, both parties are entitled to arbitration.
You are usually responsible to the repair facility for payment of repairs unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise. Ordinarily, if you are insured, your insurance policy states that the insurance company will pay you for the loss, less any applicable deductibles or depreciation. Any arrangements for payments by your insurance company are your responsibility.
One estimate from the shop of your choice is required, unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise. California State law requires you get a written estimate before starting repairs.
YES – Your insurance policy generally states that, if requested, you must file a sworn proof of loss, exhibit the damaged property, and submit to examination under oath.
YES – You may select the repair facility of your choice unless your insurance policy specifies otherwise.