Car Accidents and Repairs
Being involved in a car accident (even a minor scrape) is an unnerving experience. However dealing with the consequences and getting your car repaired properly can be an even bigger headache. That's why we've put together this simple guide - to help you get the best quality repairs with the minimum of fuss.
Welcome to the world of 'fine print'.
It's only when you have to make a claim that you discover, with car insurance, like everything else in life; you only 'get what you pay for'.
The cheapest premium may also mean the insurer will insist on any repairs being done as cheaply as possible. That could mean using used parts or even counterfeit parts which may be of inferior quality, or not meet Toyota's high standards and are not Australian Design Rule (ADR) compliant.
This is exactly why reading the fine print is vital. So phone your insurer or agent and make absolutely sure your policy states that Genuine Parts will be used to return your vehicle to a condition that met Australian Design Rules compliance.
What to do at the scene of the car accident
Print out the ACCIDENT REPAIR GUIDE and place it in your glove box to have on hand should you be involved in an accident.
- Check that you, your passengers and those in other accident vehicles are not injured. If there are injuries call an Ambulance (000)
- Turn off the ignitions of all vehicles as a fire precaution. If there is a fire call the Fire Brigade and Police on (000).
- Call the police if there are any injuries, or if there is any real or property damage, or if the vehicles are undriveable and /or need to be towed away.
- If the vehicles are driveable, park in a safe location to exchange details. If not activate warning lights (if workable) and wait in a safe place off the roadway until police arrive.
- Complete the Accident Information form, Accident Details Report and Insurance Parts Request Form found in the Accident Repair Guide and provide a copy to your insurer.
Understanding Your Repairer
Your insurance company may suggest 'network' smash repairers, but you should always have the final say in who fixes your vehicle. If you're unsure of where to go, ask your Toyota Dealer for their local recommendations on top quality repairers with a reputation for using Toyota Genuine Parts & Accessories.
Once you've selected a repairer, the next step is understanding what is covered in the quote/estimate. Quotes are full of technical jargon, so go through it carefully with the repairer or your insurance assessor to make sure Toyota Genuine Parts & Accessories repair methods are covered.
Don't risk safety, insist on genuine
Your Toyota has been engineered and manufactured to meet or exceed the most stringent safety standards in the world. Millions of dollars are invested each year in crash testing and safety technology design so that you can relax safe in the knowledge that you're in safe hands. But often, counterfeit, second-hand or used parts and accessories are used in the repair of damaged vehicles without the owner's knowledge. This could compromise the safety of your Toyota as these parts and accessories may be made of poor quality materials, fit incorrectly, or not adhere to Australian Design Rules. Therefore it is essential that you insist on the use of Toyota Genuine Parts and Accessories purchased from an authorised Toyota Dealer for any repairs.
With Toyota Genuine Parts and Accessories you're in safe hands because:
- They are engineered to original manufacturer's specifications for maximum performance, longevity and fit
- They carry a 12 month Toyota warranty for extra peace of mind on their quality and reliability
- They are model specific, so you can rest assured your vehicle isn't being fitted with 'one size fits all' parts and accessories, as is the case with some non-genuine parts.
You bought your Toyota for its quality, durability and reliability. Ensure it remains this way by insisting on Toyota Genuine Parts and Accessories only from your Toyota Dealer.