Do I have to take my car to a drive-in claims center or get multiple estimates?

No. If you request it, the insurer must inspect the damage at your chosen repair shop or send their mobile adjuster to you. They are legally prohibited from coercing or using any tactics intended to prevent you from seeking estimates from your chosen body shop.

           

             Do I have to use a specific collision repair facility?

No. in California, you have the right to select the collision repair shop of your choice. When a insurer gives you a list of their shops, they are likely to recommend shops they have entered into contract with.  These contracts will determine how your car is repaired and the quality of the parts used. Also, your satisfaction isn't as important as that of the insurer. Just as long as they do right by the insurer they will keep getting work funneled to them.

​

             Why should I choose my own collision shop rather then that of the insurance company?

There are a lot of good reasons to stick to the independent repair shops. The adjusters and contracted shops work for the insurance company. The insurance companies set the rules for the repair and the preferred or network shops must follow them to keep the costs down. In order to reduce the cost of a repair sub par parts and reduced materials can be used. The savings have to come from somewhere.

​

 The independent shops work for you and look out for your best interests. They will negotiate with the insurance company for the proper repairs and serve as your advocate in the repair process. They do not cut corners to save insurance companies money. 

​

Who guarantees the workmanship for the repairs?

The repair facility is responsible for the workmanship. Every automotive repair shop registered with the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) is required to provide safe and proper repairs. If your insurance company claims they will not guarantee the repairs, do NOT worry! The repair facility must guarantee them, as required by law. 

​

     

​

​