1203 George Jenkins Blvd * Lakeland, FL  33815 * Phone (863) 688-8158 * Fax (863) 687-0157  * Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30 pm Sat 8am - Noon
Do I have to get three (3) estimates?
Under ORS 746275 you do not need more than one estimate and you can pick the shop of your choice.   Your only obligation is to inform the insurance company where you are having the work done so they may have access to the vehicle to inspect the damage. back


Why are estimates so different from one shop to another?
One of the main reasons estimates differ from shop to another shop is due to the fact that the more thorough the estimate, the higher the dollar value on the initial estimate.  At some shops, necessary repairs may be left out of the estimate making the dollar value seem much less.  However, once the repairs are complete, the total cost of repairs are very similar. back


How do I know if I need to pay a deductible?
If you are responsible for the accident and the claim is going through your insurance, you will need to determine how much your deductible is.  You can determine this information by seeing what you policy states.  Most deductibles range from $250 to $1,000.  It is highly important to consult with your insurance agent to determine they type of deductible you will be responsible for.  back


When and how do I pay my deductible?
Your deductible is due when you pick up the vehicle after repairs are complete.  Payment for the deductible may be made at our shop by check for amounts of $500 or less (with valid photo I.D.), VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or Debit Card.  We also have financing available through GE Money called CarCare One.  back


Can you "bury the deductible" for me?
We fully understand that an accident can be a great inconvenience to you and your family and it can also be an expense that you were not planning on.  However, to "hide" or "bury" your required deductible in the repair costs to your insurance company is viewed as fraud.  back


What will I drive while my vehicle is being repaired?
If you are going through your insurance company for the repairs, you will want to verify with your agent that you are covered for a rental car.  If you are a claimant (the other person is at fault), you may be entitled to a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop.  back


How do I know the repairs will be done right?
It is our top priority to return your vehicle to it's pre-accident condition.  Autobody Resurrection CARSTAR offers a lifetime workmanship and paint warranty, along with a 5 year nationwide warranty through CARSTAR.  All of our technicians are I-CAR and ASE certified, assuring you a quality job.  We want you to feel free to come to our shop and to view our facility and talk to our staff.  back


What is ASE Certified or the Blue Seal of Excellence?
ASE is a well known industry certification program for automotive technicians.  Having ASE certification means that a technician has passed through industry developed exams and meets experience requirements.  The ASE Blue Seal of Excellence identifies businesses that have a large percentage of certified technicians, with certified technicians in each area of service offered.  To be a Blue Seal establishment, a business must meet set criteria with their status being reviewed annually.  back


How Does Gold Class affect me?
Seeing a Gold Class sign should give you a feeling of confidence about your choice in collision repair facilities.  A Gold Class Professional has the skill and understanding to know when a part can be repaired or when it must be replaced.  Gold Class businesses are dedicated to training their technicians in the latest collision repair technology ensuring that your repairs will be done correctly.  back


How long does it take to repair my vehicle?
Obviously it will take time to repair your vehicle.  The time it takes depends on the severity of the repairs and the availability of parts.  back


Total loss definition by Florida Statue: 319.30 (3)(a)1
A motor vehicle is a "total loss":

*When an insurance company pays the vehicle owner to replace the wrecked or damaged vehicle
with one of like kind and quality or when an insurance company pays the owner upon the theft of
the motor vehicle.

This statue falls under the Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles and includes directions for submitting the title to a "total loss vehicle". 

If the insurance company and owner of the vehicle agree to repair, rather than to replace, a motor vehicle that otherwise would have been a total loss based on the above criteria, the vehicle is not deemed a total loss by statue.  However, if the actual cost to repair the motor vehicle or mobile home to the insurance company exceeds 100% of the cost of replacing the wrecked or damaged motor vehicle or mobile home with one of like kind and quality, the owner shall forward to Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles, within 72 hours after the agreement, a request to brand the certificate of title with the words "Total Loss Vehicle".  Such a brand shall become a part of the vehicle's title history.  back