Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I was in an accident what do I do?
A. Call us at 908-852-7551.  Relying on over 20 years of experience in working successfully with auto insurance companies, we will advise you on the next steps that make the best sense for you and for your wallet.

Towing

Q. How do I get my car towed to Riverside Autobody?

A. Again, call us right away. We will call the tow truck company and don’t worry about paying for the towing charges.  The towing charges will become part of the overall repair bill.

Estimate

Q. How do I get an estimate of the damage?
A. We will get the paperwork started by completing an estimate of visible damage  If your car was towed, we’ll be glad to fax you a copy and review the estimate with you.

We invest considerable time and energy into preparing a detailed thorough estimate.  Remember that the estimate is the first step in a negotiation between the insurance company and Riverside Autobody. We work with all insurance companies and know what each insurer requires to approve a repair and we take great pride in our ability to resolve all issues in the interest of our customer.

Q. Are your estimates accurate?
A. Riverside Autobody uses a computerized program to generate a thorough, detailed list of repairs. Count on the estimate being a solid predictor of the final actual repair costs.

Q. Why are your prices sometimes higher?
A. Don’t be fooled by a low-ball estimate. Some “less than honest” shops will lure you in with a low estimate only for you to find that hundreds of dollars in extra costs are added on. Our first estimate is 95 percent accurate. We take the time to develop a detailed, computer-driven estimate. We are governed by a code of ethics that demands that we reveal our costs upfront.

Q. What do I do if the estimate is higher than the insurance estimate?
A. We will work with the adjusters to resolve any pricing or cost issues.

Q. What if Riverside Autobody finds damage that the adjuster did not?
A. Sometimes additional damage is found after the car is disassembled. If additional loss-related damage is found, Riverside Autobody would then write up a supplemental estimate to include the additional damage. A second check would then be issued by the insurance company.

When you drop off your car, you will be asked to fill out a form that gives Riverside Autobody the authority to negotiate with the insurance company in order for you to obtain the best possible repair.

Warranty

Q. Do you offer a guarantee or warranty?
A. Yes, we do. At Riverside Autobody, we put customer satisfaction above all. We warranty the quality of our repairs for as long as you own your car.

Repair Process

Q. How long will it be before Riverside begins work on my car?
A. It depends on whether your car was drivable or towed. If your car was towed, then you were probably involved in a more serious accident and you should expect to leave your car at our shop for a while. Typically repairs don't begin until the car has been inspected by the insurance adjuster, liability determined and parts ordered—a process that could take three to five days. If your damage is less extensive and you can drive it to the shop, we will order the parts ahead of time so that they are waiting for you when you bring your car in.

Q. Will the repair charges be subject to a deductible?
A. A deductible would not be applied if the other party were at fault in the accident. If you are held responsible, you would have to pay a deductible according to the terms of your policy. For instance, if your damages totaled $4,000 and your collision deductible is $500, then your insurance company would issue you a check for $3500 and you would be responsible for $500 in out-of-pocket costs. Deductibles are only applied once per claim. If additional damages were found, your deductible would not be applied to the additional charges.

Miscellaneous

Q. Can I take my car to any shop?
A. Remember you have the final say in what shop to use. New Jersey law requires that you decide—not the insurance company—what shop repairs your car.

Q. Do you have after-hours drop-off?
A. Yes. We have a key drop. If you can’t make it in to Riverside Auto Body during regular business hours, rest assured that you can safely and easily drop of your car.

Q.Can I get a ride home when I drop off my car?
A.Yes, we would be happy to provide this service to you. We want each customer's visit to be a positive experience and will work diligently towards that goal.