Facts You Should Know

Your Rights

If you’ve had an accident, your insurer may direct you to one of their “preferred repair shops”. They may use word tricks that imply you could face out of pocket charges or that they’ll be unable to warranty the repairs. This won’t happen! The truth is, there is usually a distinct financial interest to the insurer to have your vehicle repaired at their “preferred shop” and many of these insurance companies have negotiated labor discounts or repair cost averaging agreements with these shops that can lead to sub-standard or incomplete repairs. The bottom line is this, it’s your vehicle, the choice is yours when it comes to where it gets repaired, and only you can authorize those repairs.

Our shop works with all insurance companies, we won’t compromise safety and quality, and we stand behind our work for as long as you own your vehicle. We’ve been repairing vehicles for close to forty years now, it’s what we do and what we enjoy!

Estimates

Repair estimates will vary from one shop to another, a lower estimate may not include hidden damage or necessary items. Although hidden damage is not entirely avoidable, without taking a vehicle apart, this fact should be explained at the time the estimate is being written. Education and honesty come with every estimate we write. We won’t charge you for things that don’t need to be done, and we’ll explain the repairs to you so you understand what is being done. It’s your vehicle – make sure it’s repaired to your satisfaction!

Training

Today’s vehicles require very specific repair procedures, parts, materials and equipment. Make sure the shop you choose has the proper equipment and people trained in these areas. Our technicians attend annual training on the latest repair methods and vehicle technology for all mainstream makes and models. We have a host of up to date equipment and tools and the materials we use to perform these repairs are all OEM certified, this allows us to stand behind all our repairs for as long as you own the vehicle.

Need Help?

If you are having problems figuring out what to do after you’ve had an accident or just need some questions answered. Give us a call or stop by the shop. We would be more than happy to assist you with the claims process.

Insurance Coverage

There are many different types of insurance and insurance coverage’s available for your vehicle. Whether you have ICBC or Private Coverage there are a few items you should be aware of. We are by no means experts on insurance coverage’s, but the following are examples of where we usually see coverage problems.

Parts

In the event of an accident almost all insurers require the use of “Alternative Parts” and or “Recycled Parts” regardless of the age of your vehicle. You can avoid this by purchasing “Replacement Cost Indemnity” for parts and or your vehicle, directly from ICBC or from a private company. Most terms cover the vehicle and or parts for up to 5 years from new. Check with your insurance broker for further information.

Vehicle

Vehicle Replacement Cost Indemnity. If your vehicle is deemed a total loss you need to replace it. This type of coverage makes up the difference between what the insurance company pays you for your vehicle and what it costs to replace your vehicle with a new vehicle of the same make and model and similar options.

Transportation

Although Bannister Collision & Glass has a fleet of late model courtesy cars available for your use, it’s always a good idea to carry “Loss of Use”, “Rental Allowance” or “Roadstar” depending on your insurer. This allows you to have transportation immediately in the event that your vehicle becomes non-drivable after a collision and avoids delays of waiting for a courtesy car if our fleet is on loan. It’s also helpful if you have an accident out of town or during a holiday. It can be a few days before your vehicle is towed to our shop, especially during the winter months when insurance companies and tow companies are busy.