We Like to Help.

We’ve put together this helpful page which we hope will keep you and your car safe. If nothing else, just browse through this information and there may be something that you didn’t know that may help you in the future.

Accident Information

Car accidents are stressful. Read over these tips to learn what you should do if you are involved in one.

• NStay calm. Keeping a normal demeanor helps you stay in control of the situation.
• NMake sure you and your passengers are OK.Move as far off the roadway as possible, but stay at the scene of the accident. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights and/or setting flares.
• NCall the police. Call 911 or the appropriate emergency number to report the accident.
• NContact your insurance company and report the claim. The sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the sooner they can start working to resolve your claim.
• NDo not admit fault. Do not discuss the car accident with anyone other than the police and your claims representative.
• NExchange vital information with the other driver involved in the car accident. Write down the name, address, phone number and license numbers for all drivers and witnesses, particularly those who were not riding in a vehicle involved in the accident. Ask for the insurance companies and policy numbers for drivers involved in the car accident.

If your vehicle is non-driveable, you should have your vehicle towed to one of Joe Neubert’s Collision Facilities.

We will then complete a damage report/estimate, set up rental transportation (if your insurance policy allows), you will then need to infom your insurance company, where the vehicle is so they may set up an appraisal assignment.

We are a Direct Repair Facility for MANY Insurance companies and we can handle the insurance claim from beginning to end.

Auto Tips

In case of roadside emergencies, accidents or bad weather, always carry the following items in your car:

• NJumper cables
• NPliers, an adjustable wrench and a screwdriver
• NA first-aid kit
• NBlankets
• NA supply of any regularly needed or taken medications
• NCandles and matches
• NSand or kitty litter for climates with snow or ice
• NClean water
• NCanned fruit or nuts and a can opener

Taking Good Care of Your Car

According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect. The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.

• NAlways consult your owner’s manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
• NHave all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
• NCheck tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.
• NKeep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.
• NHave the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle’s suspension system.
• NCheck battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is low, except in the case of maintenance-free batteries.
• NHave the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, brake and tail lights.
• NCheck windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.
• NInspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
• NHave the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

Always consult the vehicle owner’s manual for individual service schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.

Insured Rights in Tennessee

Information to assist you when handling a claim with your insurance company.

Question:Do I have the right to select the shop that will repair my car?

Answer: YES, in order to expedite your claim, select the repair shop; leave your automobile there; and notify your insurance agent or company.

Question: Do I need to get three estimates?

Answer: NO. Notify your agent or insurance company. Your insurance adjuster may need to inspect the damage. If your insurance company has a drive-in claims service and your car is safe to drive, you should call them for an appointment, take your car there, make sure you get a copy of the insurance adjuster’s estimate, and take it and your automobile to the shop of your choice.

In some areas your Insurance Agent may be authorized by the Insurance Company to pay your claim. If your Insurance Agent tells you to get two estimates, ask if he will pay your claim from his office. If he says yes, getting two estimates may speed up your claims payment (one caution: do not get an estimate from a shop that you would not let repair your vehicle.)

If he says no, talk to your insurance adjuster first. Generally, claims are handled by the insurance company’s claims department, not agents.

Question 3: Must I notify my insurance company before repairs?

Answer: YES. Insurance policies require that you notify the company or your agent, make a report, and tell them where the damaged vehicle may be inspected.

Question 4: Who pays the repair bill?

Answer: YOU must arrange for payment. Your insurance policy states the insurance company will pay you less any deductibles or depreciation.

Question 5: Who is responsible for the repairs?

Answer: THE SHOP. That’s why it is important that you select a repair facility that is properly trained and equipped to restore your automobile to its pre-accident condition.

Question 6: If there is a problem with the repair job, who should you contact?

Answer: First, the manager of the shop. If your problem is still not resolved, contact your insurance company claims manager. You may also want to contact your local Better Business Bureau or the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs.

Question 7 : If my insurance company fails to process my claim orpay the amount agreed upon, what can I do?

Answer: First contact your insurance agent, then talk to the Branch or Regional Claims Manager of the insurance company. If that fails, then contact the Tennessee Insurance Department.