Automotive Collision Center Inc.

WWW.AUTOMOTIVECOLLISIONINC.COM 410-799-2000

Most of the damage resulting from everyday vehicle collisions can be repaired, and vehicles can be refinished to look and drive like new. This damage may be relatively minor, such as scraped paint or a dented panel, or major, requiring the complex replacement of parts. Such repair services are performed by trained workers.

Automotive body and related repairers, often called collision repair technicians, straighten bent bodies, remove dents, and replace crumpled parts that cannot be fixed. They repair all types of vehicles, and although some work on large trucks, buses, or tractor-trailers, most work on cars and small trucks. They can work alone, with only general direction from supervisors, or as specialists on a repair team. In some shops, helpers or apprentices assist experienced repairers.

Each damaged vehicle presents different challenges for repairers. Using their broad knowledge of automotive construction and repair techniques, automotive body repairers must decide how to handle each job based on what the vehicle is made of and what needs to be fixed. They must first determine the extent of the damage and decide which parts can be repaired or need to be replaced.

If the car is heavily damaged, an automotive body repairer might start by measuring the frame to determine if there has been structural damage. Repairers would then attach or clamp frames and sections to structural machines that use hydraulic pressure to align damaged components. “Unibody” vehicles—designs built without frames—must be restored to precise factory specifications for the vehicle to operate correctly. For these vehicles, repairers use bench systems to accurately measure how much each section is out of alignment, and hydraulic machinery to return the vehicle to its original shape.

Only once the frame is aligned properly can repairers begin to fix or replace other damaged body parts. If the vehicle or part is made of metal, body repairers will use a pneumatic metal-cutting gun or a plasma cutter to remove badly damaged sections of body panels and then weld or otherwise attach replacement sections. Less serious dents are pulled out with a hydraulic jack or hand prying bar or knocked out with hand tools or pneumatic hammers. Small dents and creases in the metal are smoothed by holding a small anvil against one side of the damaged area while hammering the opposite side. Repairers may also remove very small pits and dimples with pick hammers and punches in a process called metal finishing. Body repairers then use plastic or solder to fill small dents that cannot be worked out of plastic or metal panels. On metal panels, they sculpt the hardened filler to the original shape by filing, grinding and sanding the repair back to the shape that is desired.

Body repairers may also repair or replace the plastic body parts that are increasingly used on new vehicles. They remove damaged panels and identify the type and properties of the plastic used. Some types of plastic allow repairers to apply heat from a hot-air welding gun or immerse the panel in hot water and press the softened section back into shape by hand. In most cases, it is more cost effective for the plastic parts to be replaced rather than to be repaired. A few body repairers specialize in fixing fiberglass car bodies.

Some body repairers specialize in installing and repairing glass in automobiles and other vehicles. Automotive glass installers and repairers remove broken, cracked, or pitted windshields and window glass. Glass installers apply a moisture-proofing compound along the edges of the glass, place the glass in the vehicle, and install rubber strips around the sides of the windshield or window to make it secure and weatherproof.

Many large shops make repairs using an assembly-line approach where vehicles are fixed by a team of repairers who each specialize in several types of repair. One worker might straighten frames while another repairs doors and fenders, for example. In most shops, automotive painters do the priming and refinishing, but in small shops, workers often do both body repairing and painting. (Automotive painters are discussed in the section on painting and coating workers, except construction and maintenance elsewhere in the Handbook.)

Work environment. Repairers work indoors in body shops where noise from the clatter of hammers against metal and the whine of power tools is prevalent. Most shops are well ventilated to disperse dust and paint fumes. Body repairers may also be required to work in awkward or cramped positions, and much of their work can be physically challenging. Hazards include cuts from sharp metal edges, burns from torches and heated metal, and injuries from power tools. However, serious accidents usually are avoided when the shop is kept clean and orderly and safety practices are observed.

Most automotive body repairers work a standard 40-hour week. More than 40 hours a week may be required when there is a backlog of repair work to be completed. This may include working on weekends.

Automotive body repairers must carefully restore cars to given specifications following an accident.
Automotive body repairers must carefully restore cars to given specifications following an accident.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement About this section

As automotive technology rapidly becomes more sophisticated, most employers prefer applicants who have completed a formal training program in automotive body repair or refinishing. Most new repairers complete at least part of this training on the job, while continuing to receive training from industry vendors or suppliers throughout their careers. Many repairers, particularly in urban areas, need a national certification to advance past entry-level work.

Education and training. A high school diploma or GED is often all that is required to enter this occupation, but more specific education and training is needed to learn how to repair newer automobiles. Collision repair programs may be offered in high school or in postsecondary vocational schools and community colleges. Courses in electronics, physics, chemistry, English, computers, and mathematics provide a good background for a career as an automotive body repairer. Training programs combine classroom instruction and hands-on practice.

Trade and technical school programs typically award certificates to graduates after 6 months to a year of collision repair study. Some community colleges offer 2-year programs in collision repair. Many of these schools also offer certificates for individual courses, so that students are able to take classes incrementally or as needed.

New repairers begin by assisting experienced body repairers in tasks such as removing damaged parts and sanding body panels. Novices learn to remove small dents and make other minor repairs. They then progress to more difficult tasks, such as straightening body parts and installing either repaired or replaced bolt-on parts. Generally, it takes 3 to 4 years of hands-on training to become skilled in all aspects of body repair, some of which may be completed as part of a formal education program. Basic automotive glass installation and repair can be learned in as little as 6 months, but becoming fully qualified can take several years.

Continuing education and training are needed throughout a career in automotive body repair. Automotive parts composition, body materials, electronics, and airbags and other new safety components continue to change and to become more complex. To keep up with these technological advances, repairers must continue to gain new skills by reading technical manuals and furthering their education with classes and seminars. Many companies within the automotive body repair industry send employees to advanced training programs to brush up on old skills or to learn new techniques.

Other qualifications. Fully skilled automotive body repairers must have good reading ability and basic mathematics, including geometry, physics, and computer skills. Restoring unibody automobiles to their original specification requires repairers to follow instructions and diagrams in print and digital technical manuals and to make precise three-dimensional measurements of the position of one body section relative to another. In addition, repairers should enjoy working with their hands and be able to pay attention to detail while they work.

Certification and advancement. Certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), although voluntary, is the pervasive industry credential for experienced automotive body repairers. Many repairers, particularly in urban areas, need a national certification to advance past entry-level work. Repairers may take up to four ASE Master Collision Repair and Refinish Exams. Repairers who pass at least one exam and have 2 years of hands-on work experience earn ASE certification. The completion of a postsecondary program in automotive body repair may be substituted for 1 year of work experience. Those who pass all four exams become ASE Master Collision Repair and Refinish Technicians. Automotive body repairers must retake the examination at least every 5 years to retain their certification. Ongoing training through the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) can lead to additional recognition as a Platinum technician. Finally, many vehicle manufacturers and paint manufacturers also have product certification programs that can advance a repairer’s career.

As beginners increase their skills, learn new techniques, earn certifications, and complete work more rapidly, their pay increases. An experienced automotive body repairer with managerial ability may advance to shop supervisor, and some workers open their own body repair shops. Other repairers become automobile damage appraisers for insurance companies.
Employment About this section

Automotive body and related repairers held about 185,900 jobs in 2008; about 10 percent specialized in automotive glass installation and repair. Around 62 percent of repairers worked for automotive repair and maintenance shops, while 17 percent worked for automobile dealers. A small number worked for wholesalers of motor vehicles, parts, and supplies. About 12 percent of automotive body repairers were self-employed.
Job Outlook About this section

Employment is projected to see little or no change. Job opportunities will be excellent for people with formal training in automotive body repair and refinishing as older workers retire and need to be replaced; those without any training or experience will face competition.

Employment change. Employment of automotive body repairers is expected to grow by 1 percent over the 2008-18 decade. The number of vehicles on the road is expected to continue increasing over the next decade. This will lead to overall growth in the demand for collision repair services. The increasing role of technology in vehicles also will mean new opportunities for workers with expertise or training in repairing particular makes and models of cars or working with specific materials.

However, several factors will limit the number of new jobs for automotive body repairers. The increasingly advanced technology used in vehicles has led to significant increases in the prices of new and replacement parts. Collision repair shop owners, in an effort to stay profitable, have adopted productivity enhancing techniques. The result of this has also been consolidation within the industry, or a decreasing number of collision repair shops and limited total employment growth. In some cases, the use of new technology like airbags has led to more cars that are involved in accidents to be declared a total loss – where repairing a car costs more than the value of the vehicle. High insurance deductibles have meant that an increasing number of cars suffering minor collision damage are going unrepaired.

Job prospects. Although few jobs are expected to arise due to growth, the need to replace experienced repairers who transfer to other occupations or who retire or stop working for other reasons will provide many job openings over the next 10 years. Opportunities will be excellent for people with formal training in automotive body repair and refinishing. Those without any training or experience in automotive body refinishing or collision repair will face competition for these jobs.

www.automotivecollisioninc.com 410-799-2000

If you have ever been involved in an accident, you may find the process of repairing your car and collecting insurance money to be a hassle. You maybe be asked to get auto repair estimates for your auto’s physical damage, use a rental car while your car damage is being repaired, and pay a deductible before your insurance company pays for damages. Knowing your car insurance policy and how it works will make life a little easier and allow you to seamlessly navigate your auto claim.

When the Other Driver Causes Your Car Damage

When you are involved in a car accident and the other driver is at fault, you can choose to go through your own insurance company to have your car damage repaired or you may go through the negligent driver’s insurance company. So what’s the difference? If you make a car accident claim with your own insurance company, you will likely incur a deductible. If you have rental car coverage on your policy, you will have access to a rental car while your car is in the shop, up to a daily or weekly limit set out in your policy.

When the claim is settled, your insurer will reimburse the money it paid for your claim by subrogating against the responsible party’s insurance company and get the money back. This may or may not include your deductible. If it does, you will eventually be reimbursed. If it doesn’t, you’ll be out the amount of your deductible (typically, $200-$500).

If, instead, you go through the other driver’s insurance, as long as liability is clear, they will pay for your car damage and a rental car and you will not be charged a deductible. If the damage to your car is small you may be asked to obtain one or two auto repair estimate. Some companies will advise you to use their preferred body shop. Most preferred shops streamline the process with the insurance company allowing them to straight bill them or write a check on the spot. Most will also guarantee the repairs as long as you own the car.

TIP: Most states now have laws that state that a person can choose to have their car repaired at any shop of their choice. While a preferred body shop may give you an easier process of getting reimbursed, the most important thing is getting the best repair!

Whatever your choice, a claims adjuster will likely question you about the accident and then arrange for photos to be taken of your vehicle at the body shop or separate location. These photos will be used by the claims adjuster in deciding how to pay out your claim, so be sure to accurately document the damage and repairs.

What if Fault is Unclear?

If you are partially at fault for the accident or it’s not clear who was at fault, it’s best to go through your own insurance company and then let the two insurance companies work out the details of paying the claim. Your insurance company may get some of their money back that they paid out for your car damage repair and you may get a percentage of your deductible back if the companies agree that you deserve to be reimbursed.

If you were injured and partially at fault, you will only collect a percentage of your damages. If it’s not clear who was responsible, it may have to be decided in court or by an arbitrator.

TIP: Anytime fault is unsettled or you disagree with your insurance company’s assessment, you should hire a personal injury lawyer who will advocate for your position and get you a larger percentage of your damages for your injury.

When Your Car is Totaled

If your car was a total loss, you will have to negotiate with the insurance carrier (yours or the other carrier) regarding the value of your vehicle.

Before you take action, review your own car’s value online at site’s like Kelly Blue Book. This will give you an accurate value for what you vehicle is worth. Make sure you account for all your vehicle’s features-navigation system, alloyed wheels, CD changer, MP3 player, etc—as all of this increases the value of the car. Likewise, record the vehicles mileage and what condition it was in when it was stolen. The insurance company will start at the low end of your car’s value, so be ready to negotiate. Once you come to an agreement on your value of your car, you will be asked to sign over the title of the vehicle in lieu of a check for the total loss amount.

Aftermarket parts are part made by manufacturers other than your car’s maker. They look, feel and work identical to the OEM part. The insurance company is required to return the car to its pre-wreck condition. They will argue that the aftermarket or generic parts will do that in a cost-effective manner. But this is a hotly contested issue. Laws on this issue vary from state to state. Some states require that insurance companies use OEM parts in certain vehicles. For example, insurance companies in New Hampshire must use OEM parts for damaged vehicles that are less than 2 years old or have less than 30,000 miles on the odometer, while West Virginia requires OEM parts in all cars under 3 years old. Because state law differs, you should always check your state’s laws with regard to the use of aftermarket or OEM parts.

TIP: Although the parts are similar is quality, using OEM parts may help you by reducing the car’s diminished value. If you are concerned about what your vehicle will be worth after the accident, check to see how the parts affect its value before getting your car repaired.

How to Repair Hail Damage on Your Car

Hail damage is covered under the comprehensive coverage of your policy. If you have a deductible for this coverage, it will pay for the damage caused by hail minus any deductible. Auto flood damage would also be covered under this same coverage. Contact your carrier as soon as you have knowledge of the damage. They may ask you to obtain an auto damage estimate or they may send an auto damage appraiser to look at your vehicle.

Fault vs. No-Fault state

The relationship between fault and who ultimately pays for damages and injuries determines the outcome in car insurance claims and car accident cases across most states. There are some states, however, that operate under no-fault laws. Essentially, under no-fault laws, it doesn’t matter who was at fault. Each person’s own insurance company pays for his or her expenses, depending on that state’s specific laws and rules. The no-fault rules do not always apply to property damage to your car. If you live in a no-fault state, make sure you know what damages your insurance company will cover before filing your claim. Consult a car insurance attorney with questions.

www.automotivecollisioninc 410-799-2000
Auto insurance is a preventative strategy that can save you a lot of money in auto repairs and medical payments in the unfortunate event of an accident. All states in the U.S. now require motorists to carry minimum liability car insurance for the privilege of driving on public roads. If you think an estimate is unfair, you can certainly ask your auto insurance provider for a second estimate of damages, but you will be obligated to pay the smaller amount. You see, auto insurance companies are not in the business of writing checks for inflated damage estimates. In addition, the repair shops want to keep the insurance companies happy, so they often take a cost-effective approach to preparing accident estimates. Just think, around 90 percent of all motor vehicle accident repairs are handled through insurance companies.

If you have a right to collect for any repairs that need to be done to your damaged vehicle (your auto insurance policy will outline your coverages, deductibles, etc.), the auto insurance company is required to do a visual evaluation of damages so they can begin the process of determining the cost of repairs. Again, a quick look at your insurance policy will tell you exactly what is covered. Based on the damages and what is covered under your policy, the adjuster will provide a reasonable car accident estimate. The auto insurance company is not legally obligated to accept a higher estimate.

The best thing you can do if you have been involved in a collision is to participate in the evaluation and fully cooperate. It is perfectly fine to accompany the claims adjuster while he inspects your vehicle. It is important to point out any damage that the claims adjuster might miss, but keep in mind that extensive damage to your vehicle may result in a “total loss.” A total loss is a loss of sufficient size such that there is nothing left of value. This term is also used to mean a loss requiring the maximum amount a policy will pay.

If your car is declared a total loss, the auto insurance company is under no obligation to repair the damages, no matter how much you love your vehicle. What they are obligated to do is, offer you a check for the fair market value of the vehicle. Fair market value is based on what the car would sell for under current market conditions, before the accident.

In the end, it might cost less money to pay the lower estimate now than to drag your feet and wind up in court. A judgment rendered against you can result in court costs in addition to damages and attachment of your wages and bank accounts. Not only can this hurt financially, it can harm your reputation with your bank and your employer.

Hanover businesswoman expands with new store offering significant savings on gowns and more. http://www.bridalprompageant.com

By MELODY ASPER

For The Evening Sun

Posted: 12/16/2011 07:52:34 AM EST

Se Jolie owner Simone Hostetter, of Simone s Unlimited, is in her new dress shop at 947 Carlisle St., with her store manager, Megan Brillhart. The store specializes in wedding, prom and special-occasion dresses. (THE EVENING SUN SHANE DUNLAP)
Se’ Jolie’ – that’s “It’s pretty” in French.

That’s all the French language you need to know to appreciate everything pretty – and pretty inexpensive – at Se’ Jolie’, a new store where you can shop for brand new formal and bridal gowns and dresses at significant savings.

The store, at 947 Carlisle St., opened at the end of November and is owned by Simone Hostetter, who has owned and operated the renowned and well-respected Simone’s Unlimited Day Spa and Bridal Shop for more than 15 years.

“We have so much brand new inventory at Simone’s that we decided we needed an outlet where we could offer quality new merchandise at vastly reduced prices,” Hostetter said. “Because of the economy, many people are looking for bargains and this
A wide selection of prom dresses is at Se Jolie on Carlisle Street. The newly opened business specializes in new wedding, prom and special-occasion dresses. (THE EVENING SUN SHANE DUNLAP)
is the place to find them.”

Customers need to know that Se’ Jolie’ only sells new bridal and formal wear, Hostetter stressed, as the shop is in the same building which formerly housed a consignment store.

“These are all brand new, excellent quality, and current styles from high-end designers,” she said. “Each gown here is one-of-a kind, because designers only cut so many pieces of one style and then they change the style slightly.”

All of the bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ gowns and mother-of-the-bride dresses at Se’ Jolie’ are priced at savings of 50 to 70 percent off their original cost, Hostetter said.

A huge selection of gowns and dresses are available in many styles and colors. Bridal gown sizes range from 2 to 30 and
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mother-of-the-bride dresses have sizes 4 to 30.

All of the gowns and dresses are from well known “high-end” designers, such as Maggie Sottero, Demitrios, Mori Lee and Casablanca, she said, mentioning just a few of the manufacturers.

“These are not knock-offs,” Hostetter added. “These are the real thing at a fraction of the regular price.”

One-of-a-kind bridesmaids’ gowns in many sizes are also offered at huge savings, said Hostetter. All are samples ranging in price from $10 to $60.

“If it is to be a small wedding with one bridesmaid or maid of honor, or if the bride would like to have all one color wedding party with different dress styles, this is the place to shop at significant savings,” store manager Megan Brillhart said. “These are gowns that originally cost hundreds of dollars.”

Starting in January, Hostetter said, Se’ Jolie’ will also offer a line of bridesmaids dresses for under $100 each that can be ordered for budget conscious brides that want to have all of their bridesmaids gowns match exactly.

A large selection of flower girl, junior bridesmaid and infant baptism and christening dresses are also available at 50 percent or more less than regular retail.

Similar savings can be had for quality formal wear such as New Year’s gowns and cocktail dresses and prom gowns and homecoming dresses, said Brillhart.

The difference between a bridesmaid’s gown and a formal gown worn to a holiday party, prom or pageant is “bling,” said Hostetter.

“A bridesmaid’s gown is understated so as to not outshine the bride,” Brillhart explained. “A formal gown is flashy and dazzling, with beading, sequins or other special features. It’s fashion forward.”

Brillhart said the formal dresses and gowns are also from well-known designers, such as Jovani, Tony Bowls, Mori Lee, Tiffani and others.

The difference customers will appreciate at Se’ Jolie’ is the reduced price they will pay for the “bling,” Hostetter said.

“The price for the average prom or holiday gown at every shop anywhere is now $350 to $400,” she said. “Here at Se’ Jolie’ we have the same high quality designer gowns at $100 to $200. I’m selling them at the prices I pay for them.”

The formal gowns are available from size 0 up to size 24, said Brillhart.

“It’s a great place to save for people that want to go to formal events but are on a budget,” Brillhart said.

Customers will also appreciate the individual attention they will get at Se’ Jolie’, said Hostetter.

“Don’t let the word budget mislead you,” she said with a smile. “From the minute a customer walks in, our employees are dedicated to guiding them to find the perfect item that they are looking for.”

Se’ Jolie’ also offers an equally pretty budget-priced selection of formal fashion shoes, jewelry, handbags and slips, said Hostetter.

The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday.

An on-line, “no frills” version of Simone’s is also available online, said Hostetter, at www.BridalPromPageant.com.

“That’s a new store for us as well,” she said. “Everything is brand new, first quality merchandise at low, low prices.”

For more information on Se’ Jolie’ call 634-2274 or go to the Facebook website and “like” the store to take advantage of special sales and coupons.

IF YOU GO

What: Se’ Jolie’

Where: 947 Carlisle St., Hanover

Hours: Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday.

Call: 634-2274

Automotive Collision Center Inc. 410-799-2000

Insurance Help
Whether you choose to use Leading Edge Auto Body or another repair shop, don’t be manipulated by the insurance companies to your disadvantage.

The Un-Truths That You Should Know About

These are often heard phrases or word tracks from Insurance Companies when you want to bring your vehicle to Leading Edge Auto Body or any shop that is not on their “List”. Please read below these quotes to find out the truth.

They are not one of our network shops and they are not on our list. We can’t guarantee the repairs”
Whether or not we are a network shop, we warranty our work for you as do most shops in the industry. The insurance company is in the business of covering your loss, not fixing cars. Our work is the finest quality and you will be fully satisfied.

“If you use them, we can’t get an adjuster out for several days,
If you take it to our network shop we will have someone start on it right away”.This is just another ploy to steer you, we have heard insurance companies tell our customers how busy they are and they can’t get someone out for 7 or 8 days, when we know their staff appraisers have little to do. Most companies are required to appraise a vehicle within 72 hrs.

“If you use that shop you will have to pay for your rental out of pocket”
This is not true if you have rental car coverage or if the other person’s company is covering your loss. But some insurance companies will try to force you into a rental reimbursement, which means they will either try to get you to pay with a credit card and then reimburse you, or offer to send check for x amount of rental days (which you should promptly refuse to do) . Most companies have direct bill agreements with rental companies, but they do not always disclose that. Always remember as a claimant against a company, that you also have specific rights that a policyholder may not have.

“They charge more than the prevailing rate and you will have to pay the difference in repair cost”
There are very few cases where we have charged a customer the difference between what the actual cost were and what the insurance company was willing to pay. We will say that each customer collected the difference from the insurance company after a few phone calls. The laws state that the insurance company will pay the cost of repairs and case law has already determined that labor rate differences of $2-$4 an hour in a given market area are reasonable and competitive. Sometimes when there are discrepancies in the repair cost because a carrier is trying to force us to do something that is not in your best interest we can assist you in filing the complaint with the State Department of Insurance. It is a simple form that we will fill out for you and e-mail it.

“Claims take longer to settle if you use them”
Well, we do look after everything for you, including making rental car arrangements and dealing with the appraiser. The only thing that takes longer is they are sometimes slow to respond and they do not pay us as quickly as they pay their preferred providers.

These are just a few of the word tracks used to manipulate the customer into using a specific repair facility. Be careful. It’s your vehicle, your investment, and you have the right to make the choice on of who repairs your vehicle.
Did you know some insurance companies have ownership in some shops?

Don’t be steered from your best interests by your insurance company or the other parties insurance company.

These are just a few of the word tracks used to manipulate the customer into using a specific repair facility. Be careful. It’s your vehicle, your investment, and you have the right to make the choice on of who repairs your vehicle.
Did you know some insurance companies have ownership in some shops?

Don’t be steered from your best interests by your insurance company or the other parties insurance company.

Makes you wonder who the customer really is. Leading Edge Auto Body does not participate in many of the repair networks because of the concessions or stipulations in the contracts which generally leads to a lower cost/lower quality repair. We believe we have a responsibility to the vehicle owner who is ultimately our customer not the insurance company.
Some companies also have bonus programs for employees that steer claims to the networks, so don’t think that they have your best interest in mind.

The reason insurance companies use carefully crafted word tracks is that the state does not allow insurance companies to “direct”, “steer” or “refer” customers to a particular shop (or they are not supposed to), so they have come up with the preceding word tracks to intimidate the customer into thinking they have to do what the insurance company says, or they will not pay the claim. Most of these claims people have never seen a particular shop, nor have any knowledge of any of the staff, they are just directing claims to whoever their company has a “deal” with so that they hit a bonus quota.
After your accident

Now you have had an accident, maybe you have even already called your insurance company, but you are really not sure what to do. After all people just don’t have accidents every day and so they really don’t know what to do. Accidents can be a very traumatic experience because you might have a number of questions, but you just don’t know who to ask. You should take care in choosing a body shop after you have had an accident, because it can make a big difference. We want to try to answer all of the questions that you may have and our site is filled with a great deal of information to educate you. You can always just give us a call and we will be happy to answer any questions you might have and we would be happy to prepare you a written estimate on the damages to your vehicle.

We hope this information has helped you understand the insurance process. If you have any questions, please give us a call 410-799-2000

Automotive Collision Inc. 410-799-2000

Adams Morgan Auto body Shop, Adelphi Auto body Shop, Alexandria Auto body Shop, Anacostia Auto body Shop, Annandale Auto body Shop, Aspen Hill Auto body Shop, Bealeton Auto body Shop, Belleview Auto body Shop, Beltsville Auto body Shop, Benning Auto body Shop, Berwyn Heights Auto body Shop, Bethesda Auto body Shop, Bolling Afb Auto body Shop Auto body Shop, Bowie Auto body Shop, Broad Run Auto body Shop, Brooke Auto body Shop, Brookland Auto body Shop, Brunswick Auto body Shop, Burke Auto body Shop | Burtonsville Auto body Shop | Camp Springs Auto body Shop | Capitol Heights Auto body Shop | Capitol Hill Auto body Shop | Catlett Auto body Shop | Centreville Auto body Shop | Chantilly Auto body Shop | Cheltenham Auto body Shop | Cheverly Auto body Shop | Chevy Chase Auto body Shop | Chevy Chase Heights Auto body Shop | Clear Brook Auto body Shop | Cleveland Park Auto body Shop | Clifton Auto body Shop | Clinton Auto body Shop | Colesville Auto body Shop | College Park Auto body Shop | Cross Junction Auto body Shop | Damascus Auto body Shop | Darnestown Auto body Shop | Delaplane Auto body Shop | District Heights Auto body Shop | Dupont Circle Auto body Shop | Engleside Auto body Shop | Enon Auto body Shop | Fairfax Auto body Shop | Fairfax Station Auto body Shop | Falls Church Auto body Shop | Falmouth Auto body Shop | Farragut Auto body Shop | Fauquier County Auto body Shop | Fbi Academy Auto body Shop | Forestville Auto body Shop | Franconia Auto body Shop | Franklin Square | Fredbg | Frederick | Frederick County | Frederick County (va) | Fredericksburg – Fredericksburg City Auto body Shop | Fredericksburg Auto body Shop – Spotsylvania Auto body Shop | Fredericksburg Auto body Shop – Stafford Auto body Shop | Friendship Auto body Shop tenleytown Auto body Shop | Ft. Belvoir Auto body Shop | Ft. Mcnair Auto body Shop | Ft. Washington Auto body Shop | Gaithersburg Auto body Shop | Garrisonville Auto body Shop | Georgetown Auto body Shop | Germantown Auto body Shop | Glenarden Auto body Shop | Gore Auto body Shop | Great Falls Auto body Shop | Greenbelt Auto body Shop | Hartwood Auto body Shop | Herndon Auto body Shop | Hillcrest Heights Auto body Shop | Huntington Auto body Shop | Hyattsville Auto body Shop | Hybla Valley Auto body Shop | Kensington Auto body Shop | Kettering Auto body Shop | Kingstowne Auto body Shop | Landover Auto body Shop | Lanham Seabrook Auto body Shop | Largo Auto body Shop | Laurel Auto body Shop | Laytonsville Auto body Shop | Lorton Auto body Shop | Marlow Heights Auto body Shop | Marshall Auto body Shop | Mclean Auto body Shop | Merrifield Auto body Shop | Middletown Auto body Shop | Midland Auto body Shop | Mitchellville Auto body Shop | Montgomery County Auto body Shop | Montgomery Village Auto body Shop | Montpelier Auto body Shop | Mt. Airy Auto body Shop | Mt. Pleasant Auto body Shop | National Mall Auto body Shop | Navy Yard Auto body Shop | New Baltimore Auto body Shop | New Carrollton | New Market | Oakton | Olney | Oxon Hill | Partlow | Petworth | Potomac Auto body Shop | Prince George’s County Auto body Shop | Quantico Auto body Shop | Remington Auto body Shop | Reston Auto body Shop | Riverdale Auto body Shop | Rockville Auto body Shop | Ruby Auto body Shop | Seven Corners Auto body Shop | Shaw Auto body Shop | Shepherd Park Auto body Shop | Silver Spring Auto body Shop | Spotsylvania Auto body Shop | Springfield Auto body Shop | Stafford | Stephens City | Stephenson | Suitland | Sumerduck Auto body Shop | Takoma Park Auto body Shop | Temple Hills Auto body Shop | The Plains Auto body Shop | Thornburg Auto body Shop | Trinidad-arboretum Auto body Shop | Upper Marlboro Auto Jessuo Auto Body Shop | Vienna Auto body Shop | Warrenton Auto body Shop | Washington Auto body Shop – Government Auto body Shop | Watergate Auto body Shop | West Bethesda Auto body Shop | West Hyattsville Auto body Shop | West Mclean Auto body Shop | Wheaton Auto body Shop | Winchester Auto body Shop | Woodridge Auto body Shop, Elkridge Auto Body Shop, Ellicott City Auto Body Shop, Annapolis Junctions Auto Body Shop

Automotive Collision Inc. 410-799-2000 www.mdaci.com

Bluetooth 4.0 became official recently, and now the first app to use this technology has made its way into the app store. The app, Find My Car Smart, is part of a Kickstarter project from FMC Smart. If funded, the company will make a Bluetooth 4.0 module that’ll sit in your car. When you park, the module will trigger the iPhone app, which, in turn, will mark your location. This information will help you find your way back to your car, even in a crowded parking lot.

Bluetooth 4.0 is the latest version of the wireless technology to hit devices. It’s meant for low-power, sensor-filled devices like the car dongle above. The specification was only recently finalized, and consumer products using it are expected to debut in 2012. Once these products hit the market, Apple owners will be ready and rearing to go as Bluetooth 4.0 is already supported by the iPhone 4S, the Mac mini and the MacBook Air.

www.automotivecollisioninc.com

talking cars steer from body shops The day when vehicles will electronically communicate to one another to avoid collision is closer than you think. For followers of my blog; you know this isn’t a new story for me – I’ve reported on it before. Sources are now saying though that this technology is just a mere five-years away. By that time, nine years would have passed from my first report to the first vehicle manufacturer integrated product offerings. Considering the historical trend of military technology taking up to a decade to carry out (from conception to in-action service), this projection seems right on target (Did you make the military connection? If you did, you clearly read one of the above links!).

While all this wiz-bang-techno will surely benefit everyone who motors around the world, my business largely services the auto body collision repair industry that this technology will surely steer around, so as impressed as I am with this gadgetry, I can’t stop wondering how this will affect body shop repair businesses.

There are three short stories linked in the passage above (each highlighted & underlined) – take a look at those first then consider the following:

Clients from “The Greatest Generation”, also called Traditionalists (born 1925-1945 | 75-Million) are disappearing.
Baby boomers (born 1946-1964 | 80-Million) are turning 65 this year – prime retiring age. As Traditionalist’s have done; it is likely that the Boomer’s will start to drive less and will hold onto their vehicles longer when they do retire; thus increasing total losses. Now living on a fixed-income, they will also have to make difficult repair/not-repair decisions when the inevitable accident does happen.
Insurance companies are overwhelmingly reporting 30% less auto accident claim volume.
Motoring clubs (like AAA) are reporting less vehicle accidents. They are also reporting that people are driving fewer miles for both business and leisure. To make the matter worse, as the price of fuel continues to increase – Americans will drive even less.
The U.S. economy is still in the tank, so for many people; this means using their collision claim reimbursement funds to pay personal debt and basic living expenses like utilities, fuel, and food instead of repairing their car.
More crash avoidance technology will be integrated into vehicles every year, so not only will cars be engineered to avoid accidents but they will literally be steering clear of your body shop business too.

One thing is for sure – this technology will certainly be a game-changer that will for many; mean fewer cars to their collision repair center. That said, there are two ways to view this inevitable and indelible change that’s heading our way – either as an opportunity or an obstacle. Personally, I see this as a significant opportunity – and suggest the following actions to pro-actively meet this quickly approaching challenge. In doing so, your business will not only survive this contest but thrive because of it!

MARKET locally
MARKET online (online strategy should include: Website, Blog, Social Media, Search Engine Optimization, + Goal of high search engine ranking)
MARKET generationally (Generation X – born 1965-1976 | 46-Million <> Generation Y – born 1977-1997 | 76-Million)
Build a marketing plan to DOMINATE your market and give it time to grow (the best time to plant a tree – yesterday | Chinese proverb)
Qualify customer expectations and at the very least – meet them 100%. Sounds simple – but it’s not, and from my experience – more businesses either fail at qualifying what their customers truly expect; or they try so hard to exceed-expectations that they ultimately miss the mark on what was truly important to the customer – even thought they did all that extra stuff the customer didn’t ask for or expect.
Increase productivity through greater process efficiencies, not just through pushing more cars through the shop. Running a body shop from “the estimate” only builds top-line-revenue, process efficiencies that translate into greater productivity(throughput) builds wealth. Making money is not the same as building wealth.
Reduce your fixed expenses

Focus on these key goals, and you will have a solid strategy to turn this seemingly business-braking challenge into a business-success story!

By: Chris Sheehy – Auto Body Consultant at Autobody Consulting Group LLC www.AutobodyConsultingGroup.com

Automotive Collision Center 410-799-2000 Jessup MD 20794  www.mdaci.com

Today, automobile and trucks are more dependable and trouble-free than ever, auto maintenance is easier for certified mechanic, thanks to technological advances and improved engineering. But to keep your vehicle trouble a routine auto maintenance is an absolute necessity. Such auto maintenance will keep your auto repair bills lower in the future, help your vehicle perform at its peak, and hold on to its value as the years pass.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer has given you complete auto maintenance guidelines that are found in your vehicle manual. Feel free to consult with your Convoy Auto Repair Service Specialist if you have any questions about these recommendations, or about services available.

Whatever maintenance factory recommend we can perform all of your auto maintenance factory required maintenance and repair without voiding the warranty.

Auto Maintenance:

• Fluid Flush
• Oil Change
• Filter Change
• Cabin Air Filter
• Wiper Blades Change
• Wind Shield Washer
• Check Engine Lights
• Check Power Steering Fluid
• Check Engine
• Spark Plugs
• Belts and Hoses
• Check Engine Lights, Tail Lights and Front Lights
• Check Oxygen Sensor
• Check Coolant, Heating
• Check Battery and Cables
• Tire Inflation and Condition
• Check Chassis Lubrication
• Check Exhaust System
• Check Brakes
• Check Suspension
• Cleaning and Polishing

Please call us today to schedule your auto maintenance at 410-799-2000 >>>

For the month of August we are offering a 5% discount on all automotive and mechanical repairs. Just print out the coupon below to receive your discount on the entire repair. To schedule your free estimate call us at 410-799-2000 or stop by our office at 8201 Washington Blvd. Jessup, MD 20794.

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