It's time again for the Canadian collision repair industry to gather for the next CCIF meeting in Calgary, on April 3rd. CCIF meetings are open to all who want to be part of the solution to the issues affecting the industry, this includes collision repairers, insurers, trainers, suppliers, wholesalers and trade associations.

The meeting will take place at the Delta Bow Valley Hotel, 209 - 4th Avenue S.E. Calgary on Saturday, April 3. Registration and breakfast begin at 7:00am and the meeting from 8.00am - 5.00pm with a reception after the meeting.

Download registration form complete it and fax it to CCIF Administrator, Mike Bryan, at (905) 726-9038

Call the Delta direct at Tel: 1 800 665 8571 or 403 266 1980

Boyd Group Income Fund announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2003. The Fund's year-end results reflect two months of the operations of The Boyd Group Inc. and ten months operating as Boyd Group Income Fund.

Revenue for the fourth quarter 2003 was $30.3 million, compared to $35.6 million in the corresponding period of 2002. Revenue for the year also showed a decline to $129.6 million in 2003, compared to $140.7 million in 2002. The company attributes the year-over-year decline in sales to the lower U.S. to Canadian dollar exchange rate coupled with weaker sales volume in certain economically depressed U.S. markets.

Net income for the fourth quarter of 2003 was $197 thousand compared to a net loss of $424 thousand in the same period a year ago. Net income for the year was $1.5 million compared to net income of $1.2 million in 2002.

Terry Smith, President and CEO of Boyd Group, said, "We remain focused on increasing cash flow from operations and distributable cash through the realization of greater operational efficiencies and the expansion of our network of repair centers. Our acquisition of Illinois-based Gerber Group, subsequent to year-end, represents a significant milestone in support of our strategic objectives. We expect the acquisition of Gerber to contribute approximately $70 million to our annualized revenue."

The reorganization of Boyd Group into an income trust (or "the Fund") was completed concurrently with the completion of the Fund's $9.0 million initial public offering, which closed on February 28, 2003. (courtesy of CollisionWeek)

The Boyd Group operates 81 corporate owned locations, and 11 franchised locations operating under its trade names. Boyd Group is focused on its plan to be a leader in the consolidation of the North American collision repair industry.

Boyd Group Income Fund (TSX: BYD.UN)

Dominic Agostino, the MPP for Hamilton East, has passed away.

Many of us have lost a dear friend, a man of warmth, humour, loyalty and love.

The Legislature has lost an outstanding MPP, a person of principle who would always stand up for his beliefs, and for the people he was proud to represent.

The City of Hamilton, where Dominic also served on city council, regional council, the separate school board, and several community boards and committees, has lost a champion.

Ontario has lost someone who was absolutely dedicated to public service.

But the greatest loss is felt by family.

Our thoughts and love are with Dominic's mother Theresa, his brother Ralph and his wife Rose, Dominic's sister Mary and her husband Tony, and Dominic's beloved nieces and nephews.

I know today they are thinking, too, of Dominic's late father, Salvatore.

With the Agostino family in our hearts, I ask that we all pause for prayer and reflection today, and that we do not forget, in our grief, to also celebrate Dominic Agostino's life.

Let's remember, always, the tremendous energy he shared with us, his passion for helping people, and the love he had for our province.

(Viewer's note- Dominic had been a friend of the collision repair industry for many years, even filing a report with te association when he was approached by chasers after a car accident. He had just finished arranging meetings to help the industry address Bill 186 regulations (Collision Repair Standards Act ) and tow regulations. He will be missed.)

UPCOMING I-CAR NEW BRUNSWICK XTREME EVENT EXPECTED TO BE LARGEST EVER FOR PROVINCE

Mark your calendars now for the I-CAR Xtreme event taking place in Dieppe,
New Brunswick on April 30 - May 1, 2004 at the Crystal Palace Hotel. The New Brunswick I-CAR Committees are expecting this to be the largest industry educational event ever to be held in the province.

This two-day event will be packed with automotive technical speakers and clinics, industry exhibitors, demonstrations, and I-CAR training programs. The trade show, and technical clinics will be available to attendees at no additional charge.

Event location information:

Crystal Palace Hotel & Convention Center
499 Paul St.
Dieppe, New Brunswick EIA 655

If you are interested in participating as an exhibitor or sponsor, please
contact I-CAR Canadian Manager Tracey Blouin at 1-800-422-7456.

(see headlines)

AADCO Automotive, supplier of like, kind and quality used auto parts, signed a Preferred Supplier Agreement for LKQ and aftermarket parts with Collision Care Canada Inc. (CCC) on March 19, 2004. The Preferred Supplier Agreement is to take effect April 1, 2004.

CCC operates 10 corporately owned collision repair facilities in the greater Toronto area operating under the Imperial and Oaktown banners.

The stated goal of CCC and AADCO is to improve customer service, increase savings and reduce cycle time, lowering motor vehicle insurance premiums.

"The CCC agreement is another important element in our strategy to increase AADCO's revenues by maximizing the yield of both body and mechanical parts from every vehicle dismantled," said Charles Hodgkinson, CEO AADCO Automotive Inc.

In December, AADCO announced a strategic alliance with Dave's Part Mart of Ottawa with an option to acquire. On March 2, 2004 AADCO announced the signing of a Letter of Intent with United International Business of Canada to sell parts in China before the end of 2004. On March 9, 2004 AADCO announced the signing of a Letter of Intent to acquire Coreline, the third largest automotive core and materials business in Canada and on March 16,
2004, AADCO announced a preferred supplier agreement with the 24- shop Collision Solutions Network.

PPG Automotive Refinish has won a major battle in the fight against illegally imported paint products. On February 18, 2004, the United States Federal District Court in Atlanta found John Malyon and Original Direct, both of Conyers, Georgia, to be in contempt of court for violating a previous order enjoining them from selling illegally imported PPG paint and
circumventing PPG's authorized distribution network.

The court issued a new order enjoining Malyon and Original Direct from selling PPG paint and alternatives to PPG paint, and requiring them to identify their sources for the illegally imported products and the customers to whom they were sold. The court also ordered Malyon and Original Direct to pay damages to PPG for illegal sales of gray-market PPG paint under the Refinish Components and Autocote labels.

William Shaw, PPG's Director of Marketing, N.A. Automotive Refinish, said, "We are very pleased with the federal court's decision, and we will remain vigilant, protecting our distributors and their customers. PPG intends to continue policing these types of illegal activities and take whatever steps are necessary to put an end to them and seek payment for all damages. He also stated that PPG will be proactive in its efforts to identify existing
and or new entrants of these illegal activities and move quickly to enact the strictest penalties."

Pittsburgh-based PPG Industries is a global supplier of coatings, glass and fiber glass and chemicals, with manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates in 23 countries. Sales were $8.8 billion in 2003.

(courtesy PPG Industries, CollisionWeek and BODYSHOP)

Ford Introduces Bumper Fascia Fastener Kits

OEM responds to industry requests, making the repair process simpler and more efficient.
Richland, WA, March 23, 2004 - Acting on collision repairer requests, Ford Motor Company has introduced fastener kits to be used in the repair or replacement of bumper fascias on selected Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle models. Seventeen different kits are available; each includes the nuts, bolts, washers, clips, rivets and pushpins necessary to install the fascias.

The general awareness that these kits were needed was facilitated by the Estimating Committee of Collision Industry Conference (CIC), which included SCRS members Toby Chess and March Taylor. The committee made several presentations that helped illustrate the problems faced by technicians when dealing with fasteners.
"Many of today's vehicle parts have fasteners that are not designed for re-use, and often you can't find reference to them in an estimating database or manual," Taylor notes. "The resulting confusion over what to order can lead to technician inefficiencies-the repairer either has to fix the original or substitute with a generic fastener. The time it takes to investigate and come up with a viable solution is not accounted for in the damage report, a fact that translates into loss of dollars."

Steve Nantau, Collision Repairs and Service Chemical Supervisor for Ford Customer Service Division, was one of those who participated in the discussions at CIC. Motivated by what he saw and heard, he began visiting body shops and talking to repairers in order to get a clearer view of the concerns being expressed.

"The issue interested me because despite the fact that our molding, trim and fascias included clips specific to the part, there was still confusion over proper applications," Nantau explains. "I finally figured out what repairers needed-an easier way to identify the correct fasteners for a specific job. You can't discount the importance of this; some bumpers require 79 individual fasteners!"

Ford addressed bumper fascias first because they are the most common parts replaced in an accident. There are plans to release 11 more fastener kits by the end of 2004, with the intent to eventually make them available on every new model at introduction. All parts in the fastener kits meet Ford's material, strength and finish specifications. "We think that's an important point," Nantau says, "because some aftermarket fasteners may not have the proper corrosion protection or finish, which can adversely affect customer satisfaction."
On behalf of the collision repair industry, SCRS would like to salute Ford for their efforts.

"It's easy to think fasteners aren't that big a deal, but in fact, they are," states Taylor.
"From a technician point of view, these new kits may be the best thing since sliced bread.

We expect that they will lead to improved repair quality and shortened cycle times. Estimators now have a choice when replacing a fascia assembly-they can purchase an OE fastener kit or not, and having that option makes all the difference."

Though Ford is the only OEM to so far take action, SCRS is hopeful others will soon follow suit. "It just goes to show you the effectiveness that follows an open dialogue," says SCRS Executive Dan Risley. "It proves, once again, that Working Together Is The Most Important Work We Do."

Through its direct members and 31 affiliate associations, SCRS is comprised of 5,000 collision repair businesses and 58,500 specialized professionals who work with consumers and insurance companies to repair collision-damaged vehicles. Additional information about SCRS including news releases is available at the SCRS web site: www.scrs.com. You can e-mail SCRS at the following address: scrs1@aol.com.

Used auto parts supplier, AADCO Automotive, has signed a Preferred Supplier Agreement for LKQ and Aftermarket Parts with Collision Solutions Network Inc. (CSN) on March 11. The agreement is to take effect April 1, 2004.

CSN consists of 24 collision repair shops in south/central Ontario, from Owen Sound to St. Catharines and Oshawa to London. The CSN mission is to improve and enhance the automotive repair experience through a unified member network, strategic partnerships and new technologies.

AADCO's agreement with CSN is the result of a pilot between AADCO and three CSN repair centers. The pilot project commenced February 1, 2004 and will be superceded by this new agreement on April 1, 2004.

"The CSN agreement is an important element in our strategy to increase AADCO's revenues by maximizing the yield of both body and mechanical parts from every vehicle dismantled" said Charles Hodgkinson, CEO of AADCO Automotive Inc. Added Lorenzo D'Alessandro, President of CSN, "Our initial pilot confirmed that AADCO is committed to delivering the same high level of service quality and excellence as our CSN shops. As our network grows across Ontario we look forward to increasing opportunities for our relationship with AADCO."

AADCO Automotive Inc. is a Canadian public company providing used parts and core from insurance salvage. AADCO maintains the largest unbolted inventory of used OEM parts in Canada at its 118,000 sq. ft. facility in Brampton, Ontario.

February 26, 2004

VICTORIA, BC- Speedy Auto Glass, the nation's largest auto glass repair company, is being accused of operating a kickback scheme and defrauding British Columbia's public auto insurer.

In court documents filed Wednesday, the Insurance Corp. of B.C. alleges that at least five top officials at Speedy -- including its B.C. general manager and regional manager -- conspired to defraud ICBC.

The documents say Speedy officials, and their Burnaby-based parent company TCG International, engaged in a scheme to falsify documents, create duplicate sets of account books and offer "kickbacks." The documents allege that in an effort to attract large clients such as car dealerships and autobody shops, Speedy officials would initially accept the appropriate deductibles from such clients, but quietly reimburse them later. The documents refer to this as "the kickback scheme."

No estimate on the size of the alleged fraud was available Wednesday but the court-filed writ says ICBC has paid Speedy $20 million since January 2002 in respect to glass claims.

As a result of the lawsuit, ICBC severed all ties with the 38 Speedy outlets in B.C. -- some of which have been operating for 58 years.

The damning allegations were the product of months of investigations and complaints.

An internal ICBC memo from chief operating officer Bill Goble, obtained Wednesday by The Vancouver Sun, says the lawsuit follows an investigation into Speedy's compliance with the Glass Express program. The controversial ICBC program is aimed at serving customers better by eliminating the need to go to an ICBC claims centre.

"As a result of this investigation ICBC has commenced legal action against Speedy Glass and ICBC will cease doing business with all Speedy Glass locations," says the internal memo from Goble sent to employees on Wednesday.

"Under no circumstances should ICBC staff make any comment to the media," says the memo.

Doug McClelland, spokesman for ICBC, acknowledged Goble's memo as legitimate but refused to comment on any aspect of the case.

Stephen Schober, president of parent company TCG International, said he was shocked by the allegations.

"We were surprised to learn of the situation this morning. We are extremely concerned with the allegations contained in the documents filed in court earlier today," said Schober, reading from a prepared statement Wednesday but refusing to answer questions.

"It is certainly our policy to comply with the policies and procedures of ICBC. We have a code of conduct that requires our employees to act in an ethical and legal manner in all of their business affairs," he said.

The court documents say Speedy officials were waiving insurance deductibles in an effort to build business. By waiving the deductibles B.C. drivers should be paying, Speedy built its business and thus the salaries and bonuses paid to senior managers were increased.

If subordinate employees refused "to engage in such wrongful conduct [they] would be transferred out of British Columbia or their services would be terminated," says the writ.

The employees named in the writ are Bill Nears, general manager for Speedy Glass Shops and Gordon Fraser, the company's regional manager. At least three other employees are referred to as either John Doe or Mary Doe.

ICBC is handling the alleged fraud as a civil issue and has not asked police to investigate.

John Preissl, spokesman for the Auto Glass Survival Coalition, an industry group that has been battling the Glass Express program for years, said the crackdown on Speedy is long overdue.

"This is the start of a big cleanup program," Preissl said in an interview Wednesday.

Preissl said the allegations, if proven, are indicative of the unfair and illegal business practices within the automotive industry.

"Hopefully this will clean up the industry and ensure everyone is treated fairly."

Speedy was the largest participant in Glass Express, the ICBC program that owners of automotive glass shops have for years been criticizing as unfair, punitive, wasteful and harmful to business.

Some shops have had to hire full-time employees just to keep up with the paperwork imposed by the ICBC program.

The program sets standards for glass shops ranging from washroom cleanliness and opening hours to technician skills and signage.

On Wednesday, business owners were hoping the end is near for Glass Express.

"This program should be halted and put under full investigation," Preissl said. "It has cost a lot of people their livelihoods."

The investigation into Speedy appears to have been sparked by Lawrence Grant, owner of Rapid Auto Glass in Coquitlam, who has written letters to ICBC, cabinet ministers and MLAs in a two-year effort aimed at correcting what he saw as an injustice.

"There was an unfair playing field between the big corporate stores and the independents," Grant said Wednesday.

Grant said his complaints about unfair business practices at Speedy were largely dismissed and ignored.

"Everybody in the industry knew it was happening," he said. And yet "certain issues were not being investigated . . . I feel ICBC has finally opened up their eyes. This is a step toward treating everyone fairly."

The allegations suggest Speedy was improperly waiving deductibles for customers in an effort to win more business.

Here is how the scheme, according to industry insiders, is believed to have worked:

A customer comes in to have a windshield replaced, typically a $700 job.

The customer should pay an insurance deductible of $200, with the glass shop submitting a bill of about $500 to ICBC.

But the allegations facing Speedy suggest certain customers had either all, or part of, the $200 deductible waived. A Speedy employee would pay the deductible -- on a personal Visa card -- and be reimbursed later.

ICBC would be told the transaction was above-board and legitimate.

The Vancouver Sun has obtained a copy of a Visa statement, allegedly belonging to a Speedy Glass employee. The statement shows seven charges of either $100 or $200 were made from the Speedy Auto Glass outlet in Langley on the same day in September 2002.

jbeatty@direct.ca

© The Vancouver Sun 2004

Canada's insurance industry made stellar profits in 2003. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, the sector posted a combined net profit of $2.63 billion, a new record.

The profits are close to 675 per cent higher than the year before.

IBC spokesperson Jim Rivait cautioned against overstating the results, arguing that the profits are spread across 207 companies selling fire, home, life, auto and other policies.

"There's no doubt there's been some improvement," he said, but he notes that the profits are lower than those seen at Canada's big banks.

"The industry's rate of return of 11.3 per cent, while up over last year's result of 1.7 per cent, remains lower than reasonable profitability targets accepted by government regulators and lower than levels seen in other financial services."

"The average company net earning figure was approximately $13 million," the IBC said in a statement.

CTV's David Akin points out, though, that of the 207 companies, RBC Financial Group made more money than all other 206 combined.

The insurance business varies wildly across the country -- particularly when it comes to car insurance, where provincial governments often step in with regulations.

In Nova Scotia, the government imposed a 20 per cent rate rollback on auto insurance premiums. It also capped payouts for minor injury claims at $2,500, as a way to help the insurance companies.

Ron Russell, the minister in charge of insurance, says the insurance industry obviously "overstated'' their financial difficulties when it came to him looking for concessions

"I was told that 2003 was going to be a disastrous year for the insurance industry, and that under no circumstances could they handle a 20 per cent reduction in premiums," Russell told reporters.

Nova Scotia driver John Robb is also irritated. He saw his insurance rates double in 2002. He says the industry was less than honest when it complained of hard times.

"They weren't telling the truth when they said they were losing money," he says.

In Alberta, the opposition parties are describing the insurance industry profits as "obscene.'' The Liberals say the profits in 2003 were taken on the backs of consumers. And the New Democrats say the record profits show consumers were gouged with hefty premium increases.

Alberta Premier Ralph Klein doesn't agree. He said in the legislature today that "profit" is not a dirty word.

The Alberta government has passed an auto insurance reform package and is currently developing regulations to set rates. It says once the new program package is fully in place this June, 80 per cent of motorists will pay less.

Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario meets with Mike Colle, MPP on towing and storage limit

TORONTO, March 9 /CNW/ - On Wednesday, March 3rd, 2004, Robert J. Carter,
Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario and Mike Colle, MPP and Parliamentary Assistant to the Ministry of Finance, met to discuss the revisions planned to automobile insurance. One of the items discussed was the proposed provision to limit payments for towing and storage. As such, the government has withdrawn this provision and it was agreed that other methods would be developed to control the few unscrupulous towing and storage facilities that were overcharging insurers and the public.
Mr. Carter reported that he was extremely pleased with the reception from Mr. Colle and the understanding displayed on this issue.

Mr. Carter also expressed his commitment to the government to work with them on the development of an automobile insurance product that will be available, affordable and understandable to the consumers of Ontario. The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario is a volunteer association representing over 8,900 independent property and casualty insurance brokers throughout Ontario. The association actively liaises with government and the insurance industry on behalf of its members and the insuring public.

IBAO is the pre-eminent supplier of education to independent property/casualty
insurance brokers throughout the Province of Ontario.

Your Best Insurance Is An Insurance Broker

Vivonet Inc., a Seattle-based software company, has acquired Kirmac Information Systems Inc. from Kirmac Collision Services LP for an undisclosed amount of cash and shares. This acquisition gives Vivonet Inc. full ownership and control of Autoprise, Inc., a software development company that provides collision repair management solutions.

Autoprise, Inc. provides traditional and Internet-based shop management systems for single- and multiple-site operations, data warehousing solutions and business intelligence products. Autoprise also offers services including initial system planning and design, help desk, professional services, application hosting, and implementation services.

"The acquisition of 100% of Autoprise Inc. is advantageous on many fronts, and will provide both our customers and shareholders with increased value," said Ryan Volberg, President and CEO Vivonet, Inc. "Autoprise customers already enjoy the efficiency and customer service benefits of Vivonet's Frameworks technologies in their Solo, Unity and Reveal products. From an operational perspective, both Vivonet and Autoprise will benefit from
combined infrastructure, operational efficiencies and the advantages of a common technology platform. Autoprise has achieved very strong quarter over quarter revenue growth and this acquisition will allow Autoprise to continue along this path while completing Vivonet's strategy to be active in two complimentary vertical industries".

(courtesy of CollisionWeek)

Pressure from operators, insurers

By MARYANNA LEWYCKYJ, TORONTO SUN

The Ontario government has given the hook to a controversial plan to cap towing fees on insurance claims. As part of reforms designed to cut premium costs, a cap of $300 on towing and storage fees was set to take effect on April 15.

As The Sun reported on Feb. 29, that would have meant motorists could be dinged directly for any charges above the cap, leaving drivers vulnerable to huge out-of-pocket bills.

However, the Ontario government has decided not to proceed with the cap after an outcry from body shops, tow-truck operators and insurance brokers.

"You don't want to do something that ends up backfiring on the people you want to protect," said Mike Colle, parliamentary assistant to Finance Minister Greg Sorbara.

Colle said the government would examine ways to crack down on towing abuses to help cut insurance costs.

"We need to find a way to give people that tow when they need it and stop the bad guys," said Colle.

While the vast majority of tow truck drivers are hard-working and honest, a small number of "chaser" or "vulture" operators prey on collision-dazed consumers.

John Norris, executive director of the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA), has seen hugely padded bills. One distraught motorist sent him a bill of $1,754 for towing and six days of storage; another bill ran to $2,332.

"This move by government has just saved a bundle of money for people stranded on roads that get abused," Norris said. "But there's still a desperate need to control towing costs."

Meanwhile, HARA is seeing such an increase in people paying crash claims out of pockets to avoid insurance hikes that it's started offering in-shop financing for crash repairs.

According to HARA, a 2000 federal study showed 66% of crash repairs were handled through insurance. However, a recent survey by Bodyshop magazine shows only 52% of repairs now go through insurance.

"People are worried about the costs of premium increases or being cut off," said Norris. "We're also seeing a lot more damaged cars on the road."

Don Teevens of Hawley Collision Centre in Mississauga says motorists are taking unusual steps to avoid claims.

"It's getting so bad that some people are cashing in their RRSPs to fix cars," said Hawley.

While the lifting of the cap on towing fees may protect motorists against sky-high out-of-pocket bills, one expert worries it may stall planned premium cuts.

"That measure was designed to save insurers money," notes Lee Romanov of insurancehotline.com. "If insurers don't get those savings, how is that going to affect rates?"

(see headlines)

Ontario’s proposed insurance policy limit of a maximum $300 for the insurer’s exposure to vehicle towing and storage costs will be dropped.

Sources close to Michael Colle, parliamentary assistant to Finance Minister Greg Sorbara, say that the change in insurance policies, due with new policies issued after April 14, 2004 will not happen. The Financial Services Commission of Ontario had posted the initial policy information earlier in the year.

Starting in mid-April, Ontario motorist’s insurance policies were scheduled to include a clause that would limit insurers’ cost in towing and storage (except in northern Ontario) to a maximum of $300. If the tow and storage costs were over $300, and many times there were, the motorist would be required to pay the excess in order to retrieve their vehicle. Insurers had complained that “tow truck chasers” and some gouging storage yards have been overcharging for towing services for some time and costing insurers and car owners significant extra monies.. One customer was hit with a bill of $1,754 for towing and six days of storage, while another customer's bill ran to $2,332. Some storage and tow firms charged $150.00 per day to keep a vehicle in their pound. These additional costs were being passed on to motorists through higher insurance premiums, and insurers were looking to try and cut their costs.

However a number of tow firms and collision repair associations pointed out that it is not uncommon for a legitimate tow from a licensed firm with minimum storage, particularly if the vehicle had to be take to a Collision Reporting Centre (CRC), to exceed the $300 cap limit. Insurers’ image, already suffering with the consumer impact of higher premiums over the last year, might again be damaged by being perceived as not looking after their client’s problems with a damaged vehicle. Tony Nigro, President of the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA), said “ Although we do not have large towing abuse in our local area, our members were worried that this capping would create problems for consumers as regulated tow prices were close to the proposed cap price already”. Collision repair associations pointed out that insurers should not abandon motorists and that the way to attack exorbitant tow fees, would be through the passage of regulations in the Collision Repair Standards Act, which was passed by Queen’s Park in December 2002, and if implemented, would help to control abusive tow companies and their high priced invoices.

More information: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/january04.html#capping

http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/newsevents.html#less

(see headlines)

Automatic approvals and no lengthy credit application

As more and more consumers plan to pay for their collision repairs themselves, rather than use an insurance company, demand for credit at the shop level has increased.

A federal study done for the industry in the year 2000, showed that 66% of repairs were being handled as an insurance claim. The latest information from BODYSHOP magazine, shows this level of insurance-based repair dropping to 52%.

Many shops have asked for a payment plan that is easy, gives them 100% of their money right away for the repair and satisfies the customer, without asking a lot of questions and waiting all day for a credit approval.

If you are a HARA member, you can now take advantage of a new way of handling customer-pay activity.

v-lend.com is a public company and is offering a free sign-up for shops with 100% of their due funds back normally within 24 hours.

The customer can choose their own payment plan, with automatic approvals. With an easy application processing procedure, the customer can leave their credit cards free for emergencies.

If the vehicle is less than 9 years old, has fewer that 160,000 km on it, has full insurance and the repair bill is between $500 and $4000, then the repair qualifies.

Qualified HARA members are eligible for this service by calling Anna at v-lend.com at
1-877-801-3708

An information brochure has been mailed to all members.

(see headlines)

A trick the food industry sometimes employs to hide a price hike is to use the same size box, but put less product in it.

Consumers who don't pay attention to the weight of the product may never know they're getting shortchanged.

Automakers have been known to "de-content" cars to keep vehicle prices low. The price of a car stays the same, but features that were once standard - such as air conditioning or anti-lock brakes - suddenly become an option.

Soon the concept of "de-contenting" will put a dent in your auto insurance coverage. Effective April 15, a number of insurance reforms will kick in that could mean consumers get less bang for their policy bucks.

Here are some of the changes:
- A limit of $300 on towing and storage fees. Previously, towing and storage fees weren't capped.
- Introduction of a standard $500 collision deductible, up from a standard deductible of $300 Motorists who want a $300 deductible will have to pay more.
- Increase of the deductibles which apply to awards for pain and suffering from $15,000 to $30,000 and $7,500 to $15,000 for Family Law Act awards under $100,000
- Clarification of the application of the deductible if a vehicle is written off. Some insurers were successfully sued by policyholders for charging a motorist deductible after a vehicle was written off. Some insurers were successfully sued by policyholders for charging a motorist deductible after a vehicle was written off. Insurers have pushed for changes to the policy wording to enshrine their right to collect a deductible.

Its easy to see how these changes will save insurers money. Insurers are simply shifting more of the risk of the coverage to the motorist.

While motorists who never make a claim will end up paying a little less, those who make a claim could wind up paying a whack more money in out-of-pocket expenses.

In particular, shocked and confused drivers who are preyed on by shady tow-truck drivers at accident scenes could be gouged for hundreds of dollars in excess charges.

"I think it's really scary," said Lee Romanov, president of insurancehotline.com, a rate of comparison service.

While the vast majority of tow-truck drivers are honest, hard-working people who risk their lives to assist the public, there are some bad apples in the industry. It's these "vulture" or "chaser" operators who cash in big on crash victims.
"There are pockets of really significant abuse, particularly in the Peel area," said John Norris, executive director of the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association.

Norris recently fired off a letter to Consumer Minister Jim Watson which included 11 towing and storage bills with hugely padded prices.

One customer was hit with a bill of $1,754 for towing and six days of storage, while another customer's bill ran to $2,332

"I'm seeing storage bills of $150 a day or more," Norris said.

Such bills not only vastly exceed daily charges at prime Toronto downtown parking lots, they rival hotel room charges.

In addition, towing operators have come up with some creative ways to get around municipal fee caps.

They boost bills with hefty administration fees or bogus charges such as steep "environmental fees" for simply putting a tarpaulin or bucket under a vehicle.

Patchwork of rules

Or a driver may offer the use of his cell phone to a crash victim and then charge $50 for a local call.

Because tow-truck operators are currently regulated by municipalities - not the province - a patchwork of rules exist. Some areas have tough rules and enforcement, while other areas have looser rules and lax enforcement.

Ontario legislation with proposed rules try to curb some towing abuses was passed in December 2002, but hasn't taken effect because the regulations haven't been finalized.

"We think the problem is solvable," Norris said "But we need provincial rules."

Norris would like to see rules that prevent bodyshops from paying kickbacks to "chaser" tow-truck drivers, controls to prevent billing abuses and stiff penalties for operators who break the rules.

"We may do that and that's possible," said Michael Colle, Finance Minister Greg Sorbara's parliamentary assistant. "Right now, we're taking the first step. We've got about seven or eight more steps to go on dealing with these chasers."

In the meantime, Colle says motorists have been paying for tow-truck gougers all along in the form of soaring premiums.

"We're trying to contain costs," Colle said. "The 8.3 million motorists in this province have had enough."

Protect yourself post-crash

Crash pointers to avoid accident scene vultures:

- Know the name of a good bodyshop before you get into a crash
- Never sign anything, no matter how innocent the document seems, without calling your insurer.
- If possible, call your automaker's roadside assistance number or your auto club for a tow.
- Ignore bodyshop referrals by tow-truck operators. You're likely to be steered to a second-rate shop with inflated fees. Toronto tow-truck drivers are prohibited from recommending shops.
- Be wary of any "free" offers - such as no-charge courtesy cars - being pitched by a tow-truck operator.
- Some tow-truck drivers moonlight as paralegals or provide referrals to paralegals. Be wary of such recommendations.

By Maryanna Lewyckyj
(Courtesy of the Toronto Sun)

(see headlines)

3/3/2004

The Canadian Paint and Coatings Association (CPCA), representing all major auto refinish coatings manufacturers in Canada, and the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA), has recently announced a series of new training opportunities for body-shop owners.

These new training programs will help shop owners meet environmental compliance requirements, reduce emissions from paint use in shops, and provide profitability tips to help shop owners improve their bottom line.

Courses will begin on the start date (Monday morning) and students will have access to the web-based course for one-week ending on the following Sunday evening.
Students must register a week prior to the desired start date. Late registrations will be processed for the next session.

Schedule of Upcoming Dates for the Profit For Good Environmental Management Online Delivery.

February 16-22, 2004

March 15-21, 2004

April 12-18, 2004

May 17-23, 2004

June 14-20, 2004

For more information, please visit: http://www.thecai.on.ca/CPCA_form.htm
(see headlines)

Six night course teaches fundamental principles

February 2004

The Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) announces that the popular basic estimating training course is back to help those shop or office employees who need assistance in estimating collision damage on cars and light trucks in Ontario.

Taught by experienced apprenticeship instructor, Jim Miles, this six night course includes, introduction to estimating, understanding vehicle construction, fundamentals of estimate writing, understanding collision manuals, additional charges and collision damage analysis.

Starting April for three weeks in the evening, the course is being offered in response to shop inquiries. Location is the Motive Power training facility at Mohawk College in Stoney Creek and a new Peel region course offered in Mississauga.

A course outline and student information sheet is available on request. Students on the waiting list will get priority. Classes are from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Class size is limited so please call early to avoid disappointment. Class notes are included.

Course fee is $350.00 plus GST for trade association members and $450.00 plus GST for non-members.

Students can register by calling the Association office at (905) 664-7888 or
1-866-309-HARA (4272) . Students can also register by e-mailing hara@ciia.com

Mon and Wed 6:30-9:30 pm Mohawk College, Stoney Creek

April 12, 14
April 19, 21
April 26, 28

Mon and Wed 6:30-9:30 pm Mander’s Appraisal, 1105 Queensway E (at Dixie Rd), Mississauga

May 3, 5
May 10, 12
May 17, 19

Tues and Thurs 6:30-9:30 pm Mohawk College, Stoney Creek

May 11, 13
May 18, 20
May 25, 27

(see headlines)

Our economy needs a steady supply of skilled and experienced workers. Without skilled labour, Canadian employers cannot compete in the global marketplace. In Canada, as large numbers of workers begin planning for retirement, many industries are concerned about finding people with specialized skills to replace them.

The Conference Board of Canada says we must do more to help internationally trained workers put their skills and knowledge to work quickly. An Ontario government report notes that, as the province’s population ages and as people retire in growing numbers, more and more of our labour force will be internationally trained.

To help immigrants continue their careers in our province, the Ontario government has put programs in place to help internationally trained workers receive certification and gain access to employment in their chosen occupations. The government has also improved access for immigrants to education, training and apprenticeship programs. All of these programs will help employers recognize and benefit from the skills and insights that immigrants can bring to the workplace.

BRIDGE TRAINING PROJECTS

The Ontario government is investing $15 million in partnerships and programs, including "bridge-training" projects, that will help internationally trained individuals employ their skills more quickly in the Ontario economy. Bridge-training programs will provide the training and workplace experience that individuals need to begin to practise their trade or profession, without duplicating what they have already learned elsewhere. Programs for nurses and pharmacists trained in other countries are already under way. Programs are now being developed for engineers, teachers, technicians, health-care professionals, and various skilled tradespeople, among others.

A service for assessing educational qualifications

The Ontario government has authorized World Education Services Canada to provide an academic-credential assessment service. This organization is able to assess secondary and postsecondary educational qualifications from more than 180 countries against Ontario standards. The assessment service can help an employer better understand the knowledge that an immigrant worker can bring to the workplace. It can also help immigrants determine whether they need to fill any gaps in their education before they can meet the standards for working in a regulated profession or skilled trade in Ontario.

Fact sheets

The Ontario government, working in cooperation with industry representatives and professional regulatory groups, publishes fact sheets that summarize the requirements for licensing and certification in various regulated trades and professions. These fact sheets are also available through Canada’s international visa offices. Prospective immigrants can obtain and study the fact sheets for their particular trades or professions before leaving their homeland.

The Ontario government will continue to work with employers, occupational regulatory bodies, educational institutions, and community agencies to reduce the barriers that have kept immigrants from getting the jobs that make best use of their skills, knowledge, and experience.

(see headlines)

The Chrysler Intrepid built in the 1990s has the dubious distinction as being the most popular model among Steel City car thieves.

A Top Ten list released by Hamilton police shows the Intrepid jumped from sixth place in 2003 to the most stolen vehicle in the city. It replaces the Dodge Caravan, which slipped to third place.

Other vehicles on the list from top to bottom are the Chrysler Neon, Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager, Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Chevrolet Blazer, Dodge Shadow, GMC Sierra Pickup,and Chevrolet GMC4 Pickup. All these models were manufactured in the 1990s and were at least four years old. The Dodge Shadows were 1992 to 1994 models.
In recent years, manufacturers have added safety features that make these models harder to steal.

The Hamilton chart bears little resemblance to the national list for 2002 where Hyundai, Acura, Honda and Volkswagen models occupied the top seven spots as the most theft-prone vehicles in the country. The last three spots were all Dodge products. More recent statistics were not available.

Superintendent Ken Bond, a former auto theft investigator, said about 5,000 vehicles a year are stolen in Hamilton, making it one of the worst regions in the province.

But in Hamilton, you have a better chance of getting the car back than most places because about 85 per cent of stolen vehicles are recovered within a day or two.

Most Hamilton car thieves are young joyriders, rather than professional criminals. They usually dump the vehicle after a spin around the block with their friends or a short ride home and seldom keep the vehicle for very long.

Bond said joyriders are often opportunists who take the path of least resistance.

"They're targeted by criminals because they are the easiest to break into," he told reporters yesterday.

To discourage joyriders in particular, you should install anti-theft devices such as a steering wheel lock or alarm system and never leave your doors unlocked or the key in the ignition.

You also shouldn't leave valuables strewn over the seats as an added temptation to young felons.

From his days on the auto-theft squad, Bond has noticed the same cars on the hit list year after year because they're easy to break into and hotwire. In most cases, the manufacturers have taken steps to make them more theft-proof, which explains why few newer models are being stolen.

When joyriders discover an easy model, they often pass the knowledge on to their peers and the car moves quickly in the popularity chart.

Bond has also dealt with professional criminals at the other end of the spectrum who steal for profit and usually prey on more expensive models such as sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.

These vehicles usually end up in "chop shops" where they are broken down for car parts or they're given a new vehicle identification number (VIN) and resold. Unlike the cheaper joyriding models, they are hardly ever recovered.

plegall@thespec.com

(see headlines)

STOLEN AIRBAGS

Airbags are being stolen from late-model Honda vehicles in Oakvile, Ontario
 
Halton police said that since Janaury 22, 2004, nine have been stolen from cars parked overnight in owner's driveways in north Oakville.
 
Detective Sergeant Grant Wilkinson said a "young"  six foot tall man in a dark coat was seen at one of the thefts.

(see headlines)

NEW ONLINE ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINING DATES

The Canadian Paint and Coatings Association (CPCA), representing all major auto refinish coatings manufacturers in Canada, and the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA), has recently announced a series of new training opportunities for body-shop owners. These new training programs will help shop owners meet environmental compliance requirements, reduce emissions from paint use in shops, and provide profitability tips to help shop owners improve their bottom line.

Courses will begin on the start date (Monday morning) and students will have access to the web-based course for one-week ending on the following Sunday evening.
Students must register a week prior to the desired start date. Late registrations will be processed for the next session.

Schedule of Upcoming Dates for the Profit For Good Environmental Management Online Delivery.

February 16-22, 2004

March 15-21, 2004

April 12-18, 2004

May 17-23, 2004

June 14-20, 2004

Click here to register

(see headlines)

NEW HARA CONTACT INFORMATION

The HARA office has new phone numbers. We apologize for any recent inconvenience. We are eager to hear from you and help you with any problems or needs.

Our new contact information is below:

Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA)
mailing: P.O. Box 47594, Centre Mall,
Hamilton, Ontario
L8H 7S7

Office: 350 Dosco Drive, 2nd Floor
Stoney Creek, Ontario
L8E 2N5

Phone (905) 664-7888
Fax (905) 664-3340
Toll free 1-866-309-4272 (HARA)

E-mail hara@ciia.com

Best wishes,

John Norris

(see headlines)