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MUST READ BEFORE
FILING A CLAIM WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
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

(800)
842-2762
Q: What should I do
if I have a windshield broken?
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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 steered?
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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.
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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
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Q: I called the 800
number on the back of my insurance card; how could I NOT be talking to
my insurance company?
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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.
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Q: Why would my
insurance company care what shop I use?
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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?
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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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