Best Auto Repair, Key West

5180 Suncrest Rd Key West
FL 33040

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305-849-2018

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WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN


How to Respond in a Tough Situation

Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues are handled with as little stress as possible.

  • First of all - stay calm.
  • If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical help.
  • Make sure you call the police.
  • Don't publicly make any statements where you either accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
  • Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record. Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
  • Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
  • In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and that they get the same information from you.
  • Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses as well.
  • Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of what could have caused the accident.
  • Write down pertinent details such as where the accident took place, what the weather was like, etc.
  • Once the information's exchanged, report the accident to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your fault.
  • Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your coverage and payments.
  • Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign anything if you don't understand it.
  • When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right to choose the shop to do your repairs.
  • Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as they are more expensive.

    You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle, and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide for yourself.
  • An insurance company also has the right to inspect your vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require you to visit one of their own claim centers.
  • And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident, but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident once in a while - it's just something that happens.

Remember - Drive Safely!

Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at 305-849-2018 or make an appointment online!


Reviews

These guys are awesome. Sent my 2013 pathfinder to them to replace the alternator( first time i have ever had someone else work on my vehicles) and they did it cheaper than anywhere around. They do high quality work and have high quality employees. They are very helpful and able to find parts quickly that are hard to get. This car rides my family of 5 to north florida and back and glad I know they will be safe. Thanks guys for taking care of it while I was underway.

We had to replace a tire due to a nail. Luanne was very helpful in getting us the exact tire we needed delivered in a day. After trying to get the tire from another shop and them ordering the wrong tire, and being rude to us, this was a nice change of pace. The guys were able to put the tire on right away. Great place to do business and we'll be back is we need any tire or auto repairs.

Good and friendly service, quick turnover. We are traveling (so out of our home territory) and our Ford F350 Diesel needed an oil and filter change. I called and was told to come on in. Jaime was knowledgable and gave me a good overview of what my diesel needed and why. We are very pleased. (There are also some places near to shop at or eat if you need to wait and kill some time).

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ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
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