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When You Have to Get Your Motorcycle Repaired, Keep In Mind That A New York State Law* Protects Your Right To Select The Repair Shop Of Your Choice……….. don't let anyone tell you otherwise!!! *N.Y. State Law, Section 176C.

Over the years I have noticed that because of the growing complexities in the repair world, many motorists are unsure - or even unaware of how to proceed when they are involved in an accident that damages their motorcycle.
More often than not, they stop by their local body shop or dealership to get the latest information about the steps they should take to get their vehicle repaired as best and as quickly as possible.
As a public service to all motorists, I have put together some of the more important items of concern that he motorist should know about. By carefully reviewing these explanations, an owner should have a much better understanding of his or her particular situation.
Nevertheless, if you have other matters of concern, call me and I will do my best to resolve them, or get you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Your Obligation:
1.If the damage to your vehicle exceeds $1000.00 N.Y. State requires you to fill out DMV form 104.
Your Agent:
2.Your insurance agent or claims representative will determine the coverage you are entitled to, based on the type of insurance purchased by you.
3. Once properly notified by you, the insurance company has six business days to inspect your vehicle. If more damage is found after your bike has been dismantled, the insurance co. has two more days to re-inspect it,( once adequately notified). This will result in what is called a "Supplement to the original estimate". Always remember that your agent must negotiate in good faith with you. You are entitled to a prompt, fair settlement to repair your bike to its pre-accident condition. This includes parts of like, kind and quality equal to original equipment.
Your Options:
1.Keep in mind that, despite the agent's suggestions, he cannot dictate to you just where your vehicle should be repaired. He - or the claims representative - may try to steer you to one of its drive-in service centers or"certified repair shops", but you have the right to shop around. If you do not know a local or favorite repair-shop, check the web or phone book.
Written Estimate:
1.While you are not required by law or your agent or claims representative to get more than one estimate, you have the right to do so. If they do tell you that you need three estimates, what they are really doing is getting you to shop around for a cheaper price on their behalf.
Your Repair Shop:
You have the right to legally designate the repair shop of your choice to negotiate a fair claim settlement with your insurance company on your behalf.
Authorization:
Remember, you must give your permission for the work to proceed, preferably by signing off on the work order prepared by the repair shop.
Paperwork:
It's important to keep all the paper work associated with the repair of your vehicle, in case you have a complaint or misunderstanding about the scope of the repairs.
Review Invoice Carefully:
Look over it carefully. It will tell you about the parts replaced, their cost, the labor charges and warranties. Compare it with the original estimate prepared for you.
Complaints:
If you do have complaints about how the insurance company or the repair shop that handled your case, you may contact the:
N.Y. State Department of Insurance
25 Beaver Street, N.Y. 10004
The Consumer Services Phone Number
212 / 480-6400
www.ins.state.ny.us