• If possible, call your insurance company from
the scene of the accident. They will walk you
through the information they will need. If they
ask for a police report, phone or go to the police
department headquarters the next day and you
can get a copy of the report for a nominal fee.
In some states with “no fault” insurance laws, a
report may not be necessary. This is especially
true if there are no injuries and both vehicles
are driveable.
• Choose a reputable collision repair facility for
your vehicle. Whether you select a GM dealer
or a private collision repair facility to fix the
damage, make sure you are comfortable
with them. Remember, you will have to feel
comfortable with their work for a long time.
• Once you have an estimate, read it carefully
and make sure you understand what work will
be performed on your vehicle. If you have a
question, ask for an explanation. Reputable
shops welcome this opportunity.
Managing the Vehicle Damage
Repair Process
In the event that your vehicle requires damage
repairs, GM recommends that you take an active
role in its repair. If you have a pre-determined
repair facility of choice, take your vehicle there,
or have it towed there. Specify to the facility
that any required replacement collision parts be
original equipment parts, either new Genuine
GM parts or recycled original GM parts.
Remember, recycled parts will not be covered
by your GM vehicle warranty.
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you
must live with the repair. Depending on your
policy limits, your insurance company may initially
value the repair using aftermarket parts. Discuss
this with your repair professional, and insist
on Genuine GM parts. Remember if your vehicle
is leased you may be obligated to have the
vehicle repaired with Genuine GM parts, even if
your insurance coverage does not pay the full cost.
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