Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are your hours of operation and are you open on Saturday?
    Monday through Friday 7:45am to 5:15pm

2. Will my paint match the rest of my vehicle?
    With our computer matching system, our professionally trained technicians and
    the use of DUPONT paints and their vast technical support system, we are confident
    in our abilities to match your original finish.

3. How long will it take to repair my vehicle?
    Once an estimate is written, parts are ordered and received, we are ready to start the
    repair process. You can usually count on 5 hours of repairs per day, so if your
    estimate has 25 total hours that would be a 5 day repair. If additional damages are
    found during the course of repairs, additional time would be needed and you would be
    contacted by one of our customer service representatives.

4. Do I need more than one estimate?
    Although some insurance companies would like to have more than one estimate, you
    legally are not responsible for getting but one -- preferably from the shop you choose
    to repair your vehicle. You should find a shop you feel confident with and one that can
    handle all aspects of the repair. Collision Specialists can do this for you.

5. What is a Direct Repair Program?
    Shops, such as ours, have contracts with certain insurance companies to follow their
    guidelines for the repair process and paperwork. In turn this speeds up the repairs
    and simplifies the process for the customer. Collision Specialist is a direct repair
    shop for most major insurance companies in the area.

6. Why are there differences in estimates for the same claim?
    Insurance companies and repair facilities may provide an estimate. Sometimes one
    will write only what they can see and another may write what they know may be
    needed based on past experiences of hidden damage. One may estimate
    aftermarket parts as opposed to OEM parts. Our shop works with all insurance
    companies and appraisers to ensure quality repairs at the most economical price.

7. What are OEM parts and aftermarket parts?
    OEM parts are made by the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are
    produced by other manufacturers. We do not normally have any problems with
    aftermarket parts but in the event that one does not meet with our expectations, we
    would contact the insurance company to let them know that an OEM part is needed.
    Our goal and the insurance company's goal is to repair your vehicle to pre-accident
    condition.

8. What is a deductible?
    The deductible is the portion of the repair bill you will owe. You set the deductible
    amount when you purchase your insurance policy. The higher the deductible the less
    your premium payments but if you ever file a claim you will be responsible for paying 
    that deductible amount to the repair facility.

9. What is a betterment?
    A betterment is an additional amount that you may owe to the repair facility. This is
    normally assessed to the parts that have a limited life span such as tires, batteries,
    sometimes paint, convertible tops ect. The insurance company will determine how
    much of that life span has been used. For example, the insurance company
    determines that your tire has 20% wear and a new tire cost $150.00, they may pass a
    betterment charge of $30.00 to you and they would pay $120.00