Best Auto Repair, Lancaster

CONTACT US
Google +YelpYou TubeFacebook

Call us for all your car needs! 661-949-1990

WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

How to Respond in a Tough Situation

Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues are handled with as little stress as possible.

  • First of all - stay calm.
  • If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical help.
  • Make sure you call the police.
  • Don't publicly make any statements where you either accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
  • Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record. Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
  • Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
  • In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and that they get the same information from you.
  • Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses as well.
  • Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of what could have caused the accident.
  • Write down pertinent details such as where the accident took place, what the weather was like, etc.
  • Once the information's exchanged, report the accident to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your fault.
  • Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your coverage and payments.
  • Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign anything if you don't understand it.
  • When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right to choose the shop to do your repairs.
  • Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as they are more expensive.

    You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle, and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide for yourself.
  • An insurance company also has the right to inspect your vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require you to visit one of their own claim centers.
  • And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident, but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident once in a while - it's just something that happens.

Remember - Drive Safely!

Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at 661-949-1990 or make an appointment online!

ASSOCIATIONS

  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • ASE Master Technician
  • Synchrony
  • Car Care Aware

Testimonials

  • reviewiconProfessional and Courteous
    Car & Truck Care, near Lancaster, CA
    First time at Vic's, it was a positive experience. The staff was friendly and competent. Everything went like clockwork (in todays world how many times can you say that) and my vehicle is running good. Looks like I won't be going back to the BMW dealership for repairs
    , 04/08/2020

  • reviewiconGreat Communication
    Brakes, near Lancaster, CA
    Had a strange noise coming from under the console that I couldn't diagnose. They found that the right side parking brake cable clamp was broken causing the cable to at times hit the drive shaft. Crazy. Glad they found it and fixed it so easily! Also, Vic's sends you an email with photos and videos of their assessment for your review before beginning work. This is great! I wish every repair shop did this.
    , 11/05/2019

  • reviewiconOutstanding!
    Car & Truck Care, near Lancaster, CA
    Great Customer Service...saved us. X5 picked up in Tehachapi and transported to Bakersfield, dealer was closed so driver took car to Lancaster
    , 03/10/2020

  • reviewiconWorth a Drive!
    Car & Truck Care, near Lancaster, CA
    I live in Santa Clarita and will drive to Lancaster to have Vic's Bimmer shop work on my car. Absolutely the BEST place to take your car for service .
    , 10/29/2019

  • reviewiconTrusted Mechanic
    Car & Truck Care, near Lancaster, CA
    Been trusting the Vega family with my BMW 's for over 15 years. I wouldn't even think of going anywhere else. Best service EVER!
    , 07/05/2018

  • Great service, modern, automated information sent to you. Love it.
    , 03/07/2018