FAQs – Auto
- What happens if my auto windshield needs repair?
- Do I need to get repair estimates?
- When will the appraiser inspect my vehicle?
- How do I choose a body shop?
- Do you use after-market parts?
- What if more damage is found after the shop starts repairs?
- How long will it take before I receive payment for my claim?
- Why is a deductible applied when I am not at fault?
- How long will it take before my deductible is returned?
- Should I call the police and report this incident?
- Should I report this loss to Amica even when I am not at fault and we are going through the responsible party's carrier?
What happens if my auto windshield needs repair?
Amica has a national program for auto glass repair and replacement. Call Amica for immediate assistance. If your windshield can be repaired, any applicable deductible will be waived. If replacement is necessary, the deductible you selected will apply.Your choice of repair facilities is not limited in any way.
Do I need to get repair estimates?
If the damage to your vehicle is minor, we will only ask you to obtain one estimate and forward that to us.
If the damage is more severe, we will assign an appraiser to inspect your vehicle. That appraiser will seek to reach an agreed repair price, and send a copy of the appraisal to you and your body shop.
Your claims representative will advise you as to which approach will apply to your claim.
When will the appraiser inspect my vehicle?
Our appraiser will confirm an assignment to inspect your vehicle usually within one business day of your reporting the claim to us. In most instances your vehicle is appraised and agreement is reached with the body shop of your choice within one to two business days after you have been contacted.
How do I choose a body shop?
In most areas we have implemented our Repair Assistance Program. This is offered as an option to those customers who have not chosen a body shop, or do not know where they want their vehicle repaired. Your choice of repair facilities is not limited in any way. The goal of the Repair Assistance Program is to assist you in managing the repair process and to eliminate hassles and worries for you. The repair facilities in our program have been pre-qualified to ensure they have state-of-the-art equipment and that their repair technicians are highly trained. The shops warranty their work and Amica backs up their warranties with a guarantee for as long as you own your car (see program details). The shops can also assist you with a rental vehicle when you drop your car off. Please feel free to discuss this program with your claims representative.
Do you use after-market parts?
We do not use after-market automobile sheet metal parts or bumper covers.
What if more damage is found after the shop starts repairs?
The shop calls the appraiser, who will re-inspect your vehicle. If additional related damage is found, a supplemental appraisal will be written, and we will issue an additional payment to you.
How long will it take before I receive payment for my claim?
Once we have received the necessary documentation, the claim payment is made within three business days. Usually payments are made on either the same or the following business day.If you choose a body shop in our Repair Assistance Program, we will pay the shop directly for repairs (less your deductible) to help streamline the repair process for you.
Why is a deductible applied when I am not at fault?
In most states, your deductible is applied regardless of fault. Contact your underwriting department to select a deductible that is right for you, balancing premium savings within the comfort zone in your budget if you have a loss.
How long will it take before my deductible is returned?
As soon as we make payment to you and document you were not at fault, we take action, where permissible, to recover our payment and your deductible. The time it will take to recover your deductible varies depending on the circumstances. This includes responsiveness of the responsible party or their carrier to our demands for reimbursement. In some cases, it may be necessary to pursue recovery through arbitration or litigation. We will keep you informed of our recovery attempts.
Should I call the police and report this incident?
Yes. Be aware, though, that police departments have varying thresholds regarding when they will investigate losses. A call to the local police is in line in order to determine if they will assist you.
Should I report this loss to Amica even when I am not at fault and we are going through the responsible party's carrier?
Yes. Always call Amica in case our assistance is needed down the road. Failure to promptly report a loss could jeopardize coverage.
