Insurance Work

We Work With Insurance Companies at Bernelis Garage in Bay City, MI

We Got You Covered!

Many car insurance companies have preferred auto body shop companies, these shops make agreements with insurance companies in accordance with state laws to contract work and direct payments. If you are involved in a car accident and your car needs repairing, stop in to Bernelis Garage to see if we can work with your insurance provider and save you money!

Here is a list of known insurance providers that we work with:

The Process

Car accidents can be a stressful, traumatic, and difficult process, but Bernelis Garage wants to make sure the repair process is simple and stress free! Being without a car can be an inconvenience, which is why we assure fast turnaround times so you can get back to your daily life with ease.

Collision repair begins with an inspection of the vehicle. The results of the inspection are documented, photos of the vehicle are taken, and the information is passed on to your insurance company and/or provided to you. We then will input the information into our computer estimate system that provides a detailed FREE estimate of your repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ask Us Anything

Do I need to schedule an appointment before visiting Bernelis Garage?

It is not necessary, but it is a good idea to call ahead of time to make sure one of our licensed technicians are available.

How do you know which body shop is the right one? Should you go with the one recommended by your insurance agent?

Choosing a repair shop after an accident should be weighed out carefully. You have the right to choose any body shop for your collision repair. As long as the body shop like Bernelis Garage is willing to work with your insurance agency, you can go to ANYONE. Although it may seem easiest to go with the one recommended it may not always be the best option. Choose a facility you can trust like us!

Do I have to use the body shop preferred by my insurance agency?

NO! You have the right to select the body shop that you want to make collision repairs to your vehicle. Choose Bernelis Garage where we have your best interest in mind, not the insurance companies!

Body shop fraud?

Sadly, fraud is fairly common for auto shop repairs in the insurance industry. Some shops might quote damages way worse than they actually are in order to get more money. Do background checks on shops and read customer reviews to assure company quality.

My insurance company said if I don't use their preferred body shop my repairs will cost more and I will have to pay for the difference. Do I need to pay anything out-out-of-pocket when I drop my car off for repairs?

NO! This is another tactic used by some insurance companies to steer you to the direction of their preferred body shops. The rates body shops charge are set by the auto insurance industry. Bernelis Garage offers FREE ESTIMATES on repairs to let you know what/if there would be any out of pocket cost for you.

Will the insurance company pay for a rental car while my car is being repaired?

Although it depends on your policy, most insurance companies will pay for a rental car while your vehicle is repaired. Bernelis Garage does everything to repair your car in the shortest amount of time possible and get you back on the road with what feels like a brand new car!

Where do I get an insurance claim number?

Claim numbers are issued by your insurance company at the time you report the accident. Write that number down and bring it in when you come in for an estimate!

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept multiple forms of payment including cash and check. We accept all major credit cards, venmo, and paypal (for a small fee).

What vehicles do you offer collision repair on?

We offer complete collision repair on all makes and models with minor or major damage!

Can I have other work done on the vehicle while it’s in the shop for collision repair?

Yes! Just let one of our team experts know when you drop off the car! We can get you a price quote for the additional work.

What if I lease my car?

Lease agreements clearly spell out what type of parts may or may not be used when a car is repaired, so check your lease agreement to be certain!

If something goes wrong with my repairs, who do I contact?

PLEASE contact us right away if something goes wrong with your repairs! Customer satisfaction is our priority.

What can I expect when I bring in my vehicle for an estimate?

You will be greeted by our friendly staff. We will take a look at your vehicle and take the pictures needed to complete an estimate. We will collect your information and if we need more time to complete your estimate we will send you on your way and email it to you. From there we will schedule you in when your parts are in stock, our goal is to not tie up your car longer than needed.

How will I know when my car is done and ready to be picked up?

Our staff will be in contact with you to let you know when your vehicle is ready for it to be picked up from our shop in Bay City, MI.

(989) 225-2436