Where do I go for and estimate after an accident

We have many people when they find out we are in the collision industry ask where should I go for an estimate because the insurance company needs it to start the claim process. Well my answer most of times is find a shop that is convenient and trustworthy and let them write it for you. Make sure they go over it with you so you have an idea what is being done and what you are paying for. You don't have to use the particular shop for repairs but at least you will have an idea on what is going to cost to get your vehicle repaired. If you work like most people this can be difficult. That is one of the reasons we have started a mobile estimating service here in our area. Our estimators will come to the customer and write the estimate leave a copy an go over it in detail with them. We have even started a pick up and delivery service for vehicles being repaired by our facility. There are some drawbacks to this because most times the vehicles need to come apart to write a complete estimate but then the customer is out of a vehicle. In those cases we try to explain this to the customer that they need to pick a shop for repairs and take there vehicle and leave it for the estimate and repairs. This brings to light our next problem. You get the car to the shop they have it torn down for the estimate now they are waiting on parts and the insurance company. Hence waiting this is never good when the customer is without there vehicle. This is when the shop should be thinking outside of the box. There is always something they can be doing to speed up the process. They can do and alignment if the vehicle is hit in the wheel or suspension. They can check on parts find out where and how long it will take to get them. They can disassemble panels that are going to be repaired. Do something so that when they do get the OK from the insurance or the customer they are a step ahead and not two steps behind. The time it takes to repair a vehicle lies mostly in the shops hand. They have the control to due the repair in a timely manner and correct.
Remember It is your vehicle and your insurance. You have the right to know what is being repaired and to choose who is going to repair it. Its kind of like doctors you don't want a foot doctor during surgery on you heart. Choose wisely make sure they offer a warranty and have a reputation of standing behind that Warranty.