Auto Insurance FAQs
Dealing with the stress of a collision is hard enough without trying to figure out how your accident insurance works. Here are some answers to frequently-asked questions about insurance policies.
Will the insurance company guarantee your work?
We guarantee our own work, but the insurance company does not have the legal right to guarantee a third party's work.
Who pays for repairs?
It depends on the circumstances. If you were at fault, but have comprehensive or collision insurance, the insurance company would pay the costs minus your deductible. If the other party was at fault, their insurance company should pay.
Do I have to accept the insurance company's appraisal of damage?
No. Check the "Appraisal Clause" in your policy if you have differences with their appraisal. It allows you and the insurance company to gather an opinion from an appraiser you both agree upon, or a third-party "Umpire" if you cannot agree.
Do I have the right to a rental car?
If you have purchased rental car coverage and were not responsible for the accident, you may seek reimbursement from the insurance company or, if another driver was responsible for the accident, their insurance company. If you do not have rental car coverage and were responsible for the accident, you have no grounds to ask for reimbursement. If the other driver was liable, you can generally seek reimbursement from their insurance company.
Who do I call to file a claim?
Reach out to your agent or insurance provider. If someone else is liable for your damages, it's essential to also get in touch with their insurance agent or company. The assigned adjuster will then guide you on any further necessary actions.
What does my policy require me to do after an accident?
Inform your insurance provider about the accident's details, including the time, location, and circumstances of the incident. Provide the names and addresses of individuals injured in the accident as well as any potential witnesses. Collaborate fully with the investigation process. Lastly, acquire or grant authorization for your insurance company to secure necessary documents, medical records, and relevant information.
Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at 540-253-5251 or make an appointment online!What our clients are saying about us
We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!
On Monday, March 12th, my husband and I were traveling on I-66 when our low tire alert came on showing a tire was quickly losing air. We got off the highway, hoping to find a gas station and came upon The Plains Tire & Auto. After inspection, the technician told us that the tire could not be repaired and they did not have a tire there that would work. They quickly made phone calls looking for a tire for us. They found one about 1/2 drive each way to get it. Someone went to pick the tire up, brought it back and it was quickly mounted on our car. They even printed out directions for us to travel home from there. I can't say enough good things about everyone we encountered in The Plains. Kind, helpful, understanding to our situation, etc. We will probably never need to visit The Plains Tire & Auto again, but would highly recommend it to anyone. They were a lifesaver to 2 Pittsburghers, a long way from home. Thank-you!
My car died on the interstate a few miles away, and my car was towed here at 4PM on a Friday. They we so fantastic and helpful. They got me right in and got me the information I needed to make decisions quickly. They bent over backwards to ensure I was taken care of. Such great friendly people, and as terrible as it is having car trouble, I am thankful that Brandon and the Plains Auto team were the ones who were able to assist me.