Collision Repair FAQs

When you've been in a collision, you want answers - answers to questions like what to do, who to contact, and how to start the repair process. We want to help take some of the stress out of the repair process and have put together some frequently asked questions about collision repair below. Hopefully, you'll find some of the answers you're looking for here, but if not, don't hesitate to give our experts a call at (734) 699-7758.

• How do I go about finding a reliable collision repair shop that I can trust to provide quality auto body repair?
• The collision repair industry offers educational training and certification to demonstrate that a technician is capable of safely repairing a vehicle and restoring it to pre-accident condition. Make sure that your collision repair facility is industry certified by such associations as ASE and I-CAR, two of the industry's best. Rest assured that Sumpter Collision has received training and certifications from both of these associations.
• What's the difference between collision physical damage coverage and comprehensive physical damage coverage?
• "Collision Coverage" refers to your vehicle colliding into another vehicle or object. For example, if you back into another car in a parking lot, the damage your vehicle suffers will be covered by your collision repair coverage.
  
  "Comprehensive Coverage" provides coverage for most other types of physical damage your vehicle incurs. For example, if you're in a hail storm and your vehicle suffers damage, the repairs will be covered under your comprehensive coverage.
  
  *Please note that not all insurance policies include collision repair and comprehensive coverage.*
• What should I do if I've been in a collision?
• 1. The first thing you should do if you get in an accident is to make sure everyone involved is okay and call emergency services if needed.
  2. Next, it's a good idea to call the police. Having a police report on file can help you if your insurance claim has processing issues. In addition, some states require that a police report is filed for a collision.
  3. Exchange insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved in the collision including name, address, phone number and the name of your insurance company and/or agent.
  4. At your earliest convenience, notify your insurance carrier or agent to let them know you've been in an accident. If you're unsure how to get in touch with them, feel free to bring your insurance information with you to our shop and we'll contact them for you and set up your claim.
• Can I choose which collision repair shop performs my repairs?
• Absolutely! This is a very good piece of information to know whenever you need collision repairs that are covered by your insurance company. In the past, some insurance companies would "price shop" for the cheapest repair facility to keep their costs down when repairing a vehicle. At Sumpter Collision we work for you, the vehicle owner, and not the insurance company; this is one of the key factors that set us apart from other collision shops! Even though the insurance company is covering the repairs, it is your vehicle and YOU are the customer - not the insurance company.
• Do I have to use non-OEM parts in my collision repair?
• No! In fact, we recommend using all OEM parts when possible in all of our collision repairs to ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition. However, sometimes you will have to cover the added cost if the insurance company decides OEM parts are not required.

If you still have questions regarding your collision repair or the collision repair process in general, don't hesitate to ask. We've built a solid customer base of trusted clients in Belleville, Canton, Carleton, New Boston, Romulus, Sumpter, Ypsilanti, and more because of the level of transparency we provide in the repair process. If you have questions, feel free to call our shop at (734) 699-7758, or contact us here.