Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Do I need to get more than one estimate?

A:  You are not required by law to get more than one estimate.

Q:  What if my insurance company's estimate is different than the body shop's?

A:   Intense will match all insurance company estimates. We will also work with you and your insurance company to make sure that the damage to your vehicle is properly repaired.

Q:   Am I required to have the repairs done at the auto body shop my insurance agent suggests?

A:   No. North Dakota law says that you have the right to get the repairs done at any shop that you choose.

Q:   If I am having a problem with the insurance company, can the insurance commissioner's office help me?

A:   Yes, to a certain degree. The commissioner's office can at least obtain explanations from insurance companies regarding their position. The commissioner's office cannot resolve damages or liability disputes. They cannot require that money be returned or that coverage is extended or reinstated.

Is there any way to “save or waive” my deductible?

The deductible is the only amount of the claim for which you are responsible. The insurance companies control costs so tightly that it is impossible to write an estimate for more than the amount of the actual damages (which is also insurance fraud!). Consequently, the only way for an unethical shop to save or waive the deductible is to not repair some of the damage, thereby committing fraud. If a shop is willing to cheat an insurance company by not completing all repairs, what is to keep them from cheating you? Your vehicle suffers diminished value by incomplete repairs or possible safety-related problems. In the end, you always get what you pay for.

Accident Information

One in eight is pretty high! According to the National Safety Council, one in every eight drivers will be involved in a motor vehicle accident this year. That may mean you! Are you prepared? Would you know what to do and what questions to ask?

Here is a list of 11 easy steps to remember, as compiled by the National Safety Council:

• Stop your vehicle if it is clear, safe and legal.
•  Move the vehicle out of the traveled roadway, if it is clear, safe and legal. (In some states it is against the law to move the vehicle from the place where the accident occurred. Check the ordinance in your area.)
•  Turn off the ignitions of the cars involved.
•  Make a first aid check of all persons involved in the accident.
•  Call the police and, if necessary, emergency medical services.
•  Mark the scene of the accident with flares or retro-reflective triangles.
•  Gather the names* of all persons in the motor vehicles and people who witnessed the accident.
•  Make a quick diagram of where the vehicle occupants were seated and indicate the vehicles' direction of travel and lane. Also note the date, time and weather conditions.
•  Ask to see the other driver's license* and write down the number.
•  Exchange insurance company information. DO NOT discuss "fault" or make statements about the accident to anyone but the police.
•  Get a copy of the police report of the accident from the local precinct.

Accident Information Form

If you are ever in an accident we have a form that you should use for gathering the necessary information. Download the form now! (20 KB)