Q:    Is STEWART GLASS and MIRROR, INC an "approved" or "participating" vendor with all insurance companies?

A:   YES!   STEWART GLASS & MIRROR, INC performs services for all insurance companies.  However, since most of the networks are owned by competing auto glass companies, we opt not to send our invoice through the networks.  We believe it is unreasonable for an insurance company to ask our business to provide our competitors with our invoices and the proprietary information they contain.  We are of the opinion this is in your best interest as well as our company's.   Instead we direct bill the insurance company and therefore the amount of the services performed is the amount on your claims record.  YOU WILL RECEIVE AN ITEMIZED FINAL INVOICE for your records and being the same amount billed to your insurance company.  This is valuable information you need for future use in determining  the deductible you will choose and also to know  exactly what your claims record reflects.

Q:    Why does my insurance company suggest I take my car to a shop I have never heard of or someone I do not want to take it to?

A:      Although you dialed an 800 number you have on your insurance literature to file a claim, you are not always talking with your insurance company.  Usually, your call is routed to a large out of State NETWORK posing as your insurance company.  They sub-contract the work to a vendor that is willing to do the work for the cheapest price.  Normally this is not the price that is on your claims record as the NETWORK is a FOR PROFIT entity and marks the bill up and then bills the insurance company.  For the most part these NETWORKS have agreements with your insurance companies based on price parameters alone and quality materials and workmanship are not verified.

        The Office of Public Insurance Counsel (OPIC) has a publication with your "Bill of Rights" listed.  See Bill of Rights number 25.  In part it states "No insurance company may state or suggest that you must use a specific repair person or facility or the insurance companies preferred..."

Q.   How can I be assured to receive the quality of work I deserve?

A:    The State of Texas LAW (HB 5.07.1) says you have the "RIGHT TO CHOOSE" who performs the work on your vehicle.  Therefore, INSIST on naming the shop of YOUR CHOICE and don't accept anything less.  Call Stewart Glass and Mirror, Inc at 409-384-4614 for help in processing your claim.

Q:   What if I am told it will cost me more than my deductible to use the shop of my choice or  the work will not be guaranteed if I do not use the shop they recommend?

A:    Call the shop of your choice and inquire what their procedures are with your particular insurance company.  Ask if you will be required to pay anything additional to your deductible.  Most reputable shops have a lifetime guarantee against their workmanship, therefore it is not necessary for your insurance company to guarantee their work.