Good to know: You can file your insurance claim online, but your vehicle must be brought to Bob Weaver Collision in person for the estimate and any repairs.
Once you file your Westfield auto claim, you get to choose the best collision center to complete your repairs. Surprised? Your insurance company probably sent you a list of the shops in their preferred network, but it may be in your best interests to go independent. Keep reading to learn more about your options.
Key Takeaways
- After filing a Westfield auto insurance claim in Pennsylvania, you’re free to choose the shop that repairs your vehicle.
- Using a shop inside Westfield’s preferred network will likely be quick and convenient, but the quality may not be up to your standards.
- It takes a little more effort, but choosing an independent shop outside your insurance company’s network means higher-quality repairs.
- Since an insurance company can pay a shop directly (or give you the money to pay the shop), most body shops are happy to work with claimants.
What does Westfield insurance cover?
Your Westfield insurance policy varies according to which coverage you’ve selected! The best way to find out what your policy does and doesn’t cover is to contact Westfield directly. You can also access your account online, where you can read your policy or alter your coverage.
How do I file a claim with Westfield?
Westfield recommends filing a claim online, via their mobile app, or over the phone. You’ll need a MyWestfield account to start the claims process online.
Should I use the insurance-recommended body shop?
Using one of Westfield’s recommended body shops will probably be quick and convenient, but drivers often receive higher quality repairs when they choose a body shop or collision center outside an insurance company’s preferred network.
Do I have to use the Westfield preferred network? Or can I get collision repairs through Westfield at an independent shop?
In Pennsylvania, the answer is no! The state has strict anti-steering laws. In other words, insurance companies are not allowed to tell you where to spend your auto insurance claim. You can choose your own preferred body shop or collision center no matter who your insurance carrier is.
What are the advantages of visiting an independent body shop? An independent body shop won’t have an agreement with your insurance company already in place. They won’t be working at discounted rates on your insurance company’s behalf (and therefore incentivized to rush repairs) or obligated to utilize aftermarket or used car parts (thereby reducing the quality of your repairs).
How does an independent collision center get paid?
For your convenience, an insurance company can pay the collision center directly. But if you prefer, your insurer may pay the claim to you instead, and you can pay the collision center yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bob Weaver fix any make and model vehicle?
Yes! We can repair any make and model.
What’s the difference between a body shop and a collision center?
A body shop focuses on cosmetic repairs, and a collision center is equipped for all manner of repairs, from cosmetic to structural.
Can a collision center repair fire damage?
It depends on the fire damage, but the answer is often yes!
Visit us at Bob Weaver Collision for a free estimate. We’ll help you get the most out of your Westfield insurance claim!