Insurance and Estimate Information
Did you know that you are only required by law to get one estimate for the repair of your vehicle? Click here to find out the 10 things you should know before having your vehicle repaired.
1. Your vehicle is the second largest investment you are likely to make. Preserve its value and ensure your safety by having it repaired professionally.
2. Never drive a vehicle that could be unsafe because of damages.
3. Some insurance companies may ask that you bring your vehicle to their claims center before you have your car repaired. You may do this, or you may leave your vehicle at our shop and ask that the insurance company inspect your car here.
4. The law does not require you to obtain more than one estimate or appraisal.
5. You have the right to bring your vehicle to the repair shop of your choice. Your insurance company cannot require you to go to a particular shop.
6. It is common to see differences in repair estimates. A lower estimate may not be inclusive of all necessary work. If you are not sure why one estimate is lower than another, please feel free to ask us.
7. You should select a body shop that has certified licensed technicians.
8. You should choose a body shop that keeps up with the current technology necessary to fix today’s complex vehicles.
9. Remember to ask if the shop offers a LIFETIME repair warranty.
10. Our shop will assist you in the negotiation of your claim with the insurance company. We will work closely with you to minimize any inconvenience to you and to maximize your satisfaction with Colby Body & Fender Works,Inc.
What to do in case of an accident
Chances are that you or someone you know will be involved in an accident this year. Click here to find information on what to do in case you are in an accident.
GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT:
Turn off your vehicle’s engine and wait for assistance. If you feel threatened in the intersection, pull the vehicle to the side of the road or a well-lit parking lot.
Is it nighttime? How well lit is the area? Is it safe for you to get out of your vehicle?
Remain calm.
Are you injured? Check yourself and seek assistance immediately if necessary.
Call the police or your emergency phone number. It is very important to gather the correct information at the scene of an accident. Not contacting the police is not helpful or courteous, it will end up costing you.
Be courteous and tactful to all parties. Be sure your thoughts are clear before you make any statements to the police or insurance personnel.
Do not accept fault, even if you believe in may be your fault.
Exchange names, addresses, license numbers and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident. Gather witness information as well.
Contact Colby Body & Fender Works, Inc. as soon as possible. We will call and work directly with your insurance carrier. We do everything possible to accommodate your busy schedule and strive to make getting your car back to its pre-accident condition a painless experience for you.
Your phone call to Colby Body & Fender Works, Inc. starts the process. We come and get you and your car promptly and will arrange for a rental car to get you back on your way.
Keep your paint job looking new
Did you know that you should not wax or polish newly painted parts for the first 90 days? Click here for tips for keeping your new paint job looking like new longer.
IN THE FIRST 90 DAYS…
Do not wax or polish the newly painted parts – this will allow the finish to cure & harden completely.
IN THE FIRST 30 DAYS…
Do not use a commercial car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could taint the finish and damage the surface. It is best to wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution. Be sure to use a soft cloth or sponge.
You should always wash your vehicle in the shade, never in the shade.
Never dry wipe the vehicle, always use clean water. Dry wiping can lead to scratches on the finish.
Extreme heat and cold are to be avoided. Keep the vehicles parked in the shade whenever possible.
Avoid driving on gravel roads. Chipping the finish is easily done in the first 30 days.
Do not park under trees which drop sap or near factories with a heavy exhaust. Sap and industrial fallout can mar or spot a freshly painted surface.
Trees are also more likely to attract birds. Bird droppings have a high acid content and can damage a freshly painted surface. Any droppings should be washed off as soon as possible.
Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid or windshield solvent on the new finish. If you do, immediately rinse with water. DO NOT WIPE.
Do not scrape ice or snow from the surface. Your snow scraper will turn into a paint scraper if the finish is new. Brush off the loose material with a snow brush.
Contact Us
Colby Body & Fender Works
709 Third Street
Albany, New York 12206
customerserv@colbybody.com
Tel: 518-482-8944
Fax: 518-482-5699
Collision repair serving greater Albany, NY
