Being involved in a car accident is stressful. However, when you have to deal with injuries, assess damage, and navigate through the complications of an insurance claim, the whole experience becomes overwhelming. Among drivers’ various concerns after getting into an accident, one particular question is prevalent: “Am I allowed to select any independent repair shop, or do I have to claim the insurance?”
It is quite simple: you can choose the collision repair shop you want. As the owner of the vehicle, you have the legal right to decide who will repair your vehicle. In this article, we will talk about what that means, the way insurance companies work, and the factors you should think about when it comes to selecting the best repair shop for you.
Recognizing Your Right to Choose
After a crash, your insurance company may recommend or even strongly suggest a certain body shop to handle the repairs. However, federal and state laws exist to protect your right to choose a repair facility of your preference. The shop recommended by your insurer is not obligatory for you to use.
In many states, including Nevada, “Right to Repair” laws stop insurance providers from forcing customers to visit a specific repair facility. Although insurers can suggest some, the repair shop decision is entirely yours.
It is also important to note that having non-preferred shop repairs done will not result in the loss of your insurance coverage. If the repair is reasonable and within the coverage of the policy, the insurance company needs to accept the claim.
What is a Direct Repair Program (DRP)?
Most insurance companies have a Direct Repair Program (DRP) which is a network of body shops that they have a partnership with. These shops agree to specific pricing and repair standards to remain in the preferred network of the insurance company.
When your insurance suggests a DRP repair shop, it is generally because of the following reasons:
- The shop has a contract with the insurer
- Paperwork and billing are streamlined between the shop and the insurer
- Costs are often negotiated to save the insurance company money
However, while DRP shops may be convenient for the insurer, they may not always align with your expectations for quality, materials, or customer service.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using an Insurance-Recommended Repair Shop
Pros:
Hassle-free process: Normally, the shop pays attention to the insurance paperwork, so the burden on your part is reduced.
Guaranteed Work: A few insurers have promises on amendments done at their DRP shops.
Fast Turnaround: DRP shops may prioritize your task ahead of others in order to meet the deadline set by the insurer.
Cons:
Parts Utilization Control: DRP shops may be confined to employing aftermarket or recycled parts to economize.
Possible Conflicts of Interest: Because the primary relationship is with the insurer, they might value cost-cutting more than quality.
Repair Methods Limited: Certain DRP shops may adhere to the prescribed techniques for repair by the insurer, instead of following the manufacturer’s specified guidelines.
Freedom of Autonomy While Choosing a Collision Repair Shop
The selection of your preferred body shop directly translates into higher control and better confidence during the repair process. The following are some advantages of such a choice:
Higher Quality Standards: Independent artisans often have more trust in the use of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts and adherence to factory repair protocols.
Better Customer Service: Businesses contingent on customer reviews and referrals often put making transparent sales, ensuring communication, and customer satisfaction as top priorities.
Custom Solutions: By choosing an independent shop, you may even request certain parts, finishes, or timelines that the DRP shops can’t offer.
Technician Certifications: Independent shops could have technicians certified by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or I-CAR, which is an assurance of a high standard of training and expertise.
Using your own technician can to some extent prolong the life of the repair made to the car as well as guarantee better protection by increasing the car’s value and securing the well-defined customer safety.
Inquiries to Make Before Choosing a Collision Repair Shop
To make sure you choose a shop that meets your expectations, ask these questions:
Are your technicians certified? Seek I-CAR or ASE certifications to ensure you get high-quality repair services.
Do you provide warranties? An honest shop should include in the contract a clear warranty for labor and materials.
Is it possible to use OEM parts? OEM parts provide the best fit and performance, which is particularly essential for newer or luxury vehicles.
Can you give me a detailed written estimate? Being transparent about costs is the best way to prevent surprises down the line.
Do you work with my insurance? While you aren’t required to use their DRP network, it would still help if the shop has prior experience with your insurer.
How long will the repair take? Get a realistic timeline based on parts availability, paint curing, and other factors.
Claim the Insurance: Expectations When You Choose Your Shop
Many people doubt the necessity of going outside their insurance company’s trusted network because they feel it might complicate the claims process. However, the majority of the reputable body shops are very familiar with working with numerous insurers.
You may need to:
- Give the shop your claim number and adjuster’s contact information
- Authorize a written estimate that aligns with your policy’s coverage
- Grant permission to the shop to contact the insurance company directly without involving you
True to that fact, allowing the correct repairs and adequately documenting, the insurance company will cover the costs that are in the policy limits.
Common Misunderstandings About Choosing Your Shop
Let’s clarify a few common myths:
- Myth: I must use the shop my insurer recommends. Fact: You have the freedom to pick any licensed and qualified repair shop.
- Myth: The claim will be on hold or will not be accepted if I opt not to use a DRP shop. Fact: The law requires your insurer to process your claim lawfully regardless of where you choose for the repairs.
- Myth: Non-DRP shops prove to be more costly. Fact: Independent shops might negotiate with insurance firms in the same manner, respectively. They are likely to match or even offer better pricing than a DRP without sacrificing quality.
Final Conclusion
After a crash, you deserve to feel confident that your car is truly in the right hands. It is all the more empowering now that you are aware of your right to decide on your collision repair shop. Now you can focus on safety, quality, and transparency.
Before you proceed to approve of any repairs, invest some more time in research, question, and assess your choices. Not only will this translate to a better repair experience but a customer’s peace of mind that the vehicle will be in the best condition for years to come.
FAQs
Can my insurance company obligate me to go to a specific repair shop?
No. You are legally entitled to select the repair shop of your choice. Insurance companies can refer you to shops, but the ultimate decision will always be yours.
Will picking my repair shop take long in the claims process?
Not likely. The majority of independently owned shops are familiar with the routine and can handle the paperwork fast.
Are the repairs covered under warranty at independent shops?
A vast percentage of the non-DRP shops repair and supply parts with a warranty. Always inquire about it before the repairs are started.
What will happen if my chosen repair shop is unable to cover the entire repair expense?
Usually, the shop and the insurance adjuster can solve the disagreement by negotiating a fair price. Additionally, you may also dispute any costs that were denied through the resolution process of your insurer.
Should I give priority to the cost or the quality of work in selecting a repair shop?
Quality should always be prioritized. The low-cost repairs can pose the risk to the car’s safety and loss of resale value. Choose a shop that has certified technicians, good materials, and the one that has an excellent track record of work.