How to Find the Best Body Shop for Your Car after a Car Accident
Unfortunately, car accidents are inevitable sometimes. Even if you are not injured, chances are that your car will be damaged and you will need to get that damage repaired, especially if the car is not safely drivable as a result of the damages. But how do you go about finding a quality, affordable auto body shop? Lavis Law Firm is here to help answer that question for you. Charles Lavis is a personal injury and accident attorney in New Orleans who has been helping clients since 1995.
Research the Reputation of the Body Shop
Just like with any other type of business, online reviews and a general reputation are important factors when choosing a repair shop. Always take reviews with a grain of salt since not everyone is guaranteed to have the same experience, but if there is a pattern or a vast majority of negative reviews, you may want to consider looking elsewhere. Additionally, ask around. If people you know and trust the opinions of have had a positive or negative experience with a particular place it can help you when choosing a body shop.
Ask Important Questions
Asking questions can help you to make a well-informed decision about which shop you choose. Here are a few important questions that can assist you to make the right choice:
- Are the parts original to the manufacturer or are they aftermarket parts? Are they new?
- How close to the estimate will the total costs be? Is it likely to increase?
- Does the shop offer a lifetime warranty for the car’s performance?
- Has the shop worked with your make and model of car before?
Ask About Certifications
In addition to asking questions related to the specific service you will be receiving, it is a good idea to ask if the auto technicians at the shop are certified with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or any other similarly accredited institutes. Any qualified mechanic should have a certification, and if they do not you may want to reconsider going with that shop.
Check the Better Business Bureau
Aside from just online and word of mouth reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an excellent resource for checking the credibility of a company as it allows people to report a business for unethical business practices. As a whole, auto repair shops rank highly as one of the most complained about companies. Visiting the BBB can let you know if there have been any reports of the auto body shop or if it is in good standing.
Contact Our Personal Injury & Accident Attorneys
If you have recently been in an auto accident and need to find a body shop, Lavis Law Firm is here to help! We currently have four locations in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Harvey, and Metairie. Please feel free to contact our office closest to you to connect with one of our personal injury attorneys. Car accidents are a headache, but the aftermath shouldn’t have to be. Reach out to Lavis Law Firm today!