Frequently Asked Questions

At West Chester Collision Center, we want to help take the stress out of the unpleasant situation of having an accident. We've put together a small list of FAQ's, but feel free to call us with additional questions.

Q. What should I do if I have an accident?
Prepare the trunk of your car for a possible accident as well by making sure you have a set of cones, warning triangles or emergency flares. Make sure you also have: A pen, something to write on, and a card with relevant medical information for you and your family.

As well by making sure during an auto accident:
1. Stay as calm as possible.
2. Check for injuries. Life and health are more important than damage to vehicles. When in doubt, call an ambulance.
3. If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move cars to a safe place, rather than risk being in moving traffic.
4. Turn on hazard lights. If warranted, and possible, use cones, warning triangles or flares for safety.
5. Call the police, even if the accident is minor.
6. Notify your insurance agent about the accident immediately.
7. Call West Chester Collision Center at 513-779-4424 for more assistance.

Q. Who decides whether or not my car can be repaired?

After evaluating the damages to your vehicle, your insurance company has the option of repairing your vehicle, replacing your vehicle, or reimbursing you for the vehicle's actual cash value (ACV). Actual cash value is the amount your vehicle would have sold for on the date of the accident.

Your insurance will elect to replace your vehicle or reimburse you for the ACV in those instances where the vehicle is economically impractical to repair.

A vehicle is considered economically impractical to repair, or a total loss, if the cost to repair the vehicle equals or exceeds the vehicle's ACV on the date of the loss. In many instances an insurance company will total a vehicle if the appraised damages equal 80% of the vehicle's ACV because often, once repairs are begun, additional damages or "hidden damages" are found which would render the vehicle a total loss by definition. (This is sometimes referred to as a "constructive total" loss)

Q. Can I choose my own repair shop?

Yes, and West Chester Collision Center is ready to help you. We will work with your insurance company, have them contact us as well. Our goal is to make an unpleasant experience a less stressful one. We promise to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition, and coordinate the repair with your insurance company.

Q. Does my insurance company have to use new parts to repair my car?

No. The contract of insurance only obligates the insurance company to restore your vehicle to the same condition it was in before the loss. Sometimes this requires the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and sometimes after-market parts can be used. After-market parts are parts made by a manufacturer other than the original manufacturer.

Q. Do I have to accept non-oem parts?

No, the final choice is yours but if the insurer wants to use non-OEM parts and you decide to use more expensive OEM parts, you may have to pay the difference in cost.

Q. Do I have to pay a deductible?

When you bought your policy, you chose a deductible for your physical damage coverage. This is the amount you are responsible for if a claim occurs.