Key Takeaways

  • Filing a GEICO insurance claim in Pennsylvania is actually pretty simple. Your body shop will work with your insurance carrier to complete the necessary repairs!
  • Pennsylvania law says you have the right to select your own body shop! GEICO may offer a list of their preferred collision centers, but the final decision is yours.
  • Every accident is unique, so it may or may not be worth it to file a claim. In some cases, you should do a little math before you file.
  • For body repairs you can trust, bring your vehicle to Bob Weaver Collision in Pottsville, PA!

How do I file an insurance claim with GEICO in Pennsylvania?

So you’ve been in a car accident, and you’re not sure how to proceed. Luckily, in Pennsylvania, getting GEICO to cover the costs of any damages is actually pretty straightforward!

How to File an Auto Body Insurance Claim

  • Contact GEICO and let them know you intend to file a claim.
  • Schedule a visit with your local body shop for an estimate, and let them know you intend to file a claim as well. They’ll probably ask for your insurance information so they can deal with GEICO directly.
  • Once your body shop assesses the damages, they’ll contact you and your insurance carrier with their estimate.
  • After your insurance company approves the estimate, the collision center will move forward and fix your vehicle!
  • GEICO will likely pay the body shop directly. You’ll need to pay GEICO any deductibles required by your policy.

With GEICO, can I choose my own body shop?

Absolutely! In Pennsylvania, you have the right to select your own collision center. GEICO may send you a list of their preferred options, but you aren’t required to utilize them. In fact, it may be in your interest not to do so, since an insurance company is likely to prioritize low costs over quality service. In the end, you know your local landscape better than they do, and you’re free to take your vehicle to a reputable shop that you trust. Bob Weaver Collision Center works with GEICO to make sure your vehicle is repaired your way.

Is it worth it to file a car insurance claim?

Every accident is different! It’s often worth it to file an insurance claim, especially if someone was injured. However, after a minor incident, it can be more cost-effective to avoid filing!

Why You SHOULD File an Insurance Claim

  • Someone was injured. File a claim if you or your fellow passengers have sustained even minor injuries! Treatment for crash-related injuries can be expensive, and it’s not easy to estimate just how much you’ll spend on medical care over time.
  • You live in a no-fault state like Pennsylvania. Since fault is not considered when you’re filing a claim for accident-related damages, you should file regardless of who caused the accident. (On the flip side, insurance carriers in no-fault states can raise your insurance rate after an accident, no matter who was at fault.)
  • You’ve been in a serious accident. When major damages or injuries are involved, you should inform both your insurance company and the local authorities. Having a police report handy can help you avoid additional problems, such as an offending party who denies responsibility.

When NOT to File an Insurance Claim (and Pay Out of Pocket)

  • Premium hikes will cost more than out-of-pocket repairs. Your insurance company could increase your premium after even a minor incident. If these additional costs will exceed what you’d pay to fix the car, you can save money by not filing.
  • Your claim doesn’t cost more than your deductible. If fixing damages will cost $500 and your deductible is also $500, you may be able to avoid a rate hike by skipping the claims process.
  • Damage is minimal, no one is at fault, and both parties come to an agreement. It’s not unusual to settle small fender-benders privately. But be cautious of the other party’s motives! If someone who caused an accident wants to avoid filing a claim, that’s a huge red flag.
  • It’s literally not worth it. If you drive an older vehicle, you might not be worried about minor cosmetic damages— a dented fender or some paint scratches, for instance.

Where can I find a Pennsylvania collision center that works with GEICO?

Right here in Pottsville, PA! At Bob Weaver Collision, We’re more than a body shop that works with GEICO — we’ll help you make the most of your claim by providing trustworthy repairs. Plus, our experienced team is happy to walk you through the auto body insurance claim process, answering any questions you may still have. Give us a call to schedule your free estimate!