Collision Leaders
Client Toolkit
Insurance approved
Insurance professionals trust and recommend Collision Leaders for their customers because we provide quality repairs by the book according to the OE Procedures and Over-Document the process to make working with the insurance companies easier.
in case of an accident, Knowledge is power.
Download this list of safety tips and keep it in your glove compartment to help reduce the risk of further damage or injury, prevent hassles, and save you money in the event of an accident.
1. Stay Safe
If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on its flashers. Put out warning triangles or flares if you have them. Then stand a safe distance away while you talk to other drivers or wait for help.
2. Assess Injuries
Double-check yourself and your passengers to make sure no one is hurt. Even a fender bender might have caused an injury that's not noticeable right away. Summon medical help if there is any doubt.
3. Call the Authorities
Call the police, especially if there has been substantial damage or anyone is injured or acting confrontational. Ask for the investigating officer's name and contact information, and for the accident report number so that you can follow up.
4. Exchange Information
Obtain the name, address, phone number, drivers license number, plate number, and insurance information of any other drivers involved in the accident, along with the names of anyone with injuries and any witnesses. But don't argue over who is at fault or admit blame.
5. Record the Scene
If possible, take photos of the scene (a cell-phone camera can come in handy) or draw a diagram showing the cars' positions. Contact your insurer right away.
6. Call Collision Leaders
After recording the scene, call Collision Leaders at (660) 429-2011 and we will guide you through the next steps of getting your vehicle repaired quickly and safely.
Visit https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/insurance/ to find out your legal responsibilites in the event of a collision.
FAQ
If you have a question or concern not addressed here, please give us a call at (660) 429-2011. We’re here to help!
Insurance & Payment Questions
Where do I get a claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report your accident. Just jot it down and bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, we will do the rest.
Do I need more than one estimate?
No, it is up to you to decide how many estimates you would like and if you want to discuss the repairs with more than one shop. If you have selected a shop, have your insurance company deal directly with them.
Who do I pay my deductible to?
It will be your responsibility to pay Collision Leaders when you pick up your vehicle.
Can the shop help bury my deductible?
No. When you purchased your insurance policy, you signed a contract saying you will pay the first amount of the claim up to your deductible. Repairers should not be asked to hide the deductible. That practice would constitute fraud by both the shop and consumer. The penalties for insurance fraud are severe. If a shop offers to save your deductible, they are absorbing that at your cost. They are not doing the said repairs in order to make up for your deductible. This could lead to unsafe and unsatisfactory repairs which will ultimately cost you at some point.
What is subrogation?
Subrogation is the process by which your insurance company pays for the repairs to your vehicle, and is obligated to collect from another insurer or party. Your collision coverage will require you to pay your deductible, which may be refunded once the other party pays.
The other insurance company says my car is a total loss. What does that mean?
The cost of repairs plus the value of the vehicle in damaged condition (salvage value) is greater than the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle prior to the accident.
How is the Actual Cash Value (ACV) determined?
The insurance company will assign an appraiser to inspect the vehicle to determine its condition prior to the accident, or in some instances allow the repairer to make the determination. They may use a vehicle evaluation service or the newspaper to determine pre-accident value. The owner should also determine the value independently.
Is the ACV negotiable?
Sometimes. If you feel the ACV offered by the insurance company is too low, then you are obligated to prove this either through documented receipts of vehicle enhancement or written statements by qualified experts to determine the proper value.
Will my insurance company pay for a rental?
Yes, if you have rental coverage. Also check with your agent or insurance company to see how much of the rental is covered; some policies pay the full amount, some will only pay a percentage. If the claim is a liability claim (the accident was not your fault), the full amount will be covered.
Vehicle Repair Questions
Can I have my vehicle repaired at the shop of my choice?
Yes, it is your responsibility, and your right, to choose who will repair your vehicle. Also, if you cannot decide on a repair facility, your insurance company can recommend a repair shop. Many insurance companies offer direct repair programs that take the hassle out of the claim process and provide for quicker repairs.
How will I know when my repair is complete?
You will be notified by phone when your vehicle is ready to be picked up. Please call or e-mail your advisor during the repair process if you have questions or concerns.
Is there a warranty on the repairs to my vehicle?
Yes. We guarantee all of our repairs with a written limited lifetime warranty.
When can I wash my vehicle?
You can wash the vehicle immediately. Wash the vehicle by hand with cool water and a very mild car wash solution using a soft cloth, sponge, or mitt.
- Always use clean fresh water.
- Wash your vehicle in the shade.
- Do not use a commercial brush car wash. Stiff brushes or sponges could mar the finish and damage the surface.
When can I wax my vehicle?
Do not wax or polish the vehicle in the first 90 days. This will allow the finish to cure completely. After the first 90 days keep a coat of polish or wax on the vehicle. This will help keep your finish looking new.
How do I care for my newly painted vehicle?
- Do not “dry wipe” your vehicle. Dry wiping can scratch the finish.
- Avoid parking under trees and utility lines which are likely to attract birds.
- Bird droppings have a high acid content and will damage a freshly painted surface.
- Also, tree sap can mar or spot a freshly painted surface.
- Do not spill gasoline, oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or windshield solvent on the new finish.
- Do not scrape ice or snow from the newly painted surface. Scrapers can act like a paint scraper on a newly painted finish.
General Questions
What if I want to keep my vehicle after it is totaled?
You have the right to retain ownership of the vehicle, but the amount of the settlement may be reduced by the salvage value.
How can I get a rental car?
If you need a rental car, we can help you make the necessary arrangements.
