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THIS IS A MUST READ BEFORE FILING A CLAIM
WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
(auto
glass)
After
receiving many reports of unscrupulous & deceptive actions by
some insurance companies and third party administrators. We are
concerned that this information may mislead consumers into a
false sense of assurance. Steering is against the LAW IN TEXAS.
Let us assist you in understanding what procedures you should
look for and how you can prevent being steered or coerced to use
a shop other than the one you have chosen.
(800) 842-2762
Expect quality and safety…not cheap repairs!
Windshield Installation a Life or Death Matter
But installation is key: The difference between a properly
affixed windshield and a poor job can be the difference between
life and death.
Eleven million windows are replaced each year — with many
mistakes that lead to fatal consequences. -source ABCNEWS.com -
[See
ABC News Video HERE]
(800) 842-2762
Q: What should I do if I have a windshield broken?
A: Call your local Independent Glass Shop. They can
assist you with the processing of your claim to ensure safe and
proper repairs are made to your vehicle.
Q: How do I recognize when I am being pushed into using a
shop "steered" that I don't want to use?
A: Many steering tactics are being used. You should
listen for these type of statements: K cannot find XYZ shop in
my computer not an approved shop, J calls from insurance company
or third party administrators explaining why you shouldn’t use a
shop, L loss of guarantee, L you will owe additional money if
you use this shop. These are just a few of the various steering
tactics used. Call your local Independent glass shop and ask for
their assistance. They are usually familiar with these
procedures and can assist you in surpassing these obstacles.
Q: What can I do if I believe my rights are being
infringed upon.
A: Begin with stating firmly I have a shop I am taking my
vehicle to and state the shops “name” and have their telephone
number available. If it is suggested they do not find them in
their computer then give them the number to the shop. If
anything occurs in the conversation discouraging you to use the
shop you choose, then hang up and call your local Independent
Glass shop and ask for their assistance with your insurance
company.
Q: Why wouldn’t I want to use a shop suggested by my
insurance company as opposed to the one I may have chosen?
A: Contracted or sometimes referred to as “Approved or
Preferred” shops are usually contracted with your insurance
company and represent the insurance companies best interest in
both price negotiations and repairs. This promotes and
encourages shops to compromise quality and use of necessary
products jeopardizing your safety. This could effect the quality
and thoroughness of the repair/replacement. It only puts MORE
PROFITS in your insurance companies pocket.
The windshield in a car does more than keep the wind and rain
out. It also helps protect you in case of accidents. It will
keep a passenger inside the vehicle and prevent an ejection. In
case of a rollover it also helps maintain the structural
integrity of the roof. But a lot of shops are installing
replacement windshields the wrong way. The adhesive they use is
not the proper one, or they don't allow it to cure properly. In
order to save a few dollars they are jeopardizing people's
lives. CBC Television's "Market Place".
Q: Who guarantees the workmanship for the repairs?
A: The glass shop guarantees their work, not the
insurance company or the third party administrator. If it is
suggested to you that you will lose your guarantee if you use a
shop of your choice, then call the shop direct and inquire about
their guarantee. This is a known steering tactic used and is an
UNTRUE statement. Do not fall prey to this deceptive tactic.
Q: Who can I contact for information if I believe my
rights have been infringed upon?
A: Contact the Texas Glass Association for assistance or
contact your Local Independent Glass Shop. They are usually
familiar with these procedures and could assist you. Contact TGA
@ 800-842-2762
Q: I called the 800 number on the back of my insurance
card; how could I NOT be talking to my insurance company?
A: Most insurance companies outsource their claims using
third party administrators. These are usually National Glass
Shops that serve as brokers for glass claims. When you are
transferred to their glass service you are usually connected to
the broker and not your insurance company. LISTEN carefully to
their response. If they say they are XYZ Insurance Claims
Service ask “am I speaking directly with XYZ INSURANCE”? You
should not release ANY information to anyone without
understanding whom you are speaking with and why they are
collecting information from you.
Q: Why would my insurance company care what shop I use?
A: Your insurance Agents job is to reduce claims and
claims cost and to follow company policy. Most agents receive
points or awards for compliance. It is unlawful for an insurance
company to deny you the choice to use the Glass Shop of your
choice.
Q: Why should I verify how much my insurance company has
paid out on my claim?
A: Follow up with your insurance company by requesting in
writing your claims history. Compare that amount is accurate
with your receipts. Always request an itemized invoice for
verification. We have received reports that some companies are
being billed and paying large amounts for rock repairs when the
consumer received the work for less than $50.00.
(800)
842-2762
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