The Auto Body Association of Connecticut (ABAC) today announced the election of its slate of new officers for 2008-2009.
Bob Skrip, owner of Skrip’s Auto Body in Prospect, was elected president. Mike Walsh of T & J Auto Body in East Hartford was elected vice-president, and Tony Ferraiolo of A & R Body Specialty in Wallingford was elected treasurer.
Remaining in their positions for another two-year term are Joanne Serkey, second vice president, of A & R Auto Body in Torrington, and Mark Wilkowski, secretary, of Stanley’s Auto Body in Waterbury.
“I’m thrilled to assume the leadership of ABAC along with this very strong team of individuals,” Skrip said. “There are a number of issues facing our industry today that we will continue to address: the fairness of appraisals by insurance company adjustors, the setting of below-market labor rates by insurance companies and deceptive referrals from insurance companies to their ‘preferred’ repair shops."
“ABAC will continue to advocate for our member body shops across Connecticut to ensure a fair and just workplace as well as safe and dependable repairs for consumers," added Skrip. "We will also, through our Web site, newsletters and training programs, try to enhance the professional abilities and knowledge of our members.”
According to Skrip, who has owned his shop for 30 years, one of the most gratifying developments in ABAC’s advocacy was the recent state legislature’s decision to pass a new law tightening consumer protection against insurance companies’ deceptive referrals.
“Some of our long-standing complaints have been brought to the forefront,” Skrip said. “Going forward, we will continue to work aggressively to bring such deceptive practices into the light. It was very gratifying for me to have Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, along with a number of state senators and representatives, support bills to deter collusive relationships between certain insurers and repairers.”
The ABAC is a statewide consumer advocacy group dedicated to the advancement of the collision repair industry. For more information, visit www.abaconn.com.
