Insurance Claims After an Accident
Just had an accident? Here are the steps to follow, and how we support your insurance claim.
After a collision: what to do first
Stay calm and follow these steps, in order:
- Safety first. If no one is hurt and the vehicle is drivable, move it out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
- Photos. Take photos of the vehicles, the licence plates, the damage and the accident scene.
- Joint report or police report. For a two-vehicle collision, fill out the joint report (constat amiable) with the other driver. If anyone is injured or it's a hit-and-run, call the police.
- Call your insurer. Report the accident and open your claim file. Even if you're not at fault, it's your own insurer you call.
- Choose your shop. The choice is yours — request an estimate whenever you're ready.
Free choice of repair shop in Quebec
Your insurer may suggest a shop, but in Quebec, the choice of repair shop belongs to the vehicle owner. We work with every insurer: no matter who you're insured with, you can entrust the repair to our body shop.
What we handle on your claim
We prepare a detailed estimate following the manufacturer's procedures — the same procedures behind our certifications. We document the damage with photos and a report, and we submit supplements if additional damage turns up during the repair. We coordinate with the appraiser or adjuster assigned to your file. In most cases, the insurer pays the shop directly: you pay only your deductible, if one applies.
Can my insurer force me to use a specific shop?
No. In Quebec, the vehicle owner — not the insurance company — decides which shop does the repair, even if your insurer recommends one. You're free to bring your vehicle to us.
Do I need to get multiple estimates?
No, generally not. One estimate at the shop of your choice is usually enough — your insurer sends its own appraiser or adjuster if needed to approve the work.
Who pays the shop?
The insurer, in most cases: it pays the shop directly once the claim is accepted. You pay only your deductible, if one applies.