Key Takeaways
- You don’t have to accept whatever low-budget repairs your insurance company hands you. In Pennsylvania, you have the right to choose your own body shop!
- While an insurer’s preferred shop might offer faster turnaround, an independent shop is more likely to deliver a higher caliber of service, auto parts, and customer support.
- Before you drop your car off, make sure your independent shop is willing to work with your insurance company!
Can you choose your own body shop after an accident in Pennsylvania?
Absolutely! If your insurance company is pushing you toward their network of preferred shops, feel free to push back. Insurers often build direct repair programs, creating partnerships with certain body shops to help them save money. These shops typically agree to pricing and part-sourcing guidelines that benefit your insurance company.
You, on the other hand, want your car to be as safe and reliable as it was before the accident, and a trip to your insurer’s cost-cutting preferred shop might not be what it needs. Luckily, Pennsylvania law is on your side here, and you’re free to cash in your claim at an independent shop that will put your needs first. Bob Weaver Collision Center is that shop.
Should I go to my insurance company’s preferred shop over an independent shop?
The main benefit of using your insurer’s preferred network is fast service. Since these shops have already agreed to your insurer’s price caps, they can get started on repairs right away. But faster doesn’t mean better.
When you visit an independent shop, there’s a little more back-and-forth. That’s because your insurance company needs to approve their estimate before they can get to work. Overall, though, choosing an independent collision center comes with more benefits!
Benefits of Choosing an Independent Shop
- You’re in charge. Where preferred shops let insurers set the terms for price caps and part sourcing, an independent shop answers to you.
- Quality comes first! There’s no need to cut corners — an independent shop will have a higher bar when it comes to proper repair procedures and quality parts.
- Experience. An experienced shop knows how to handle an insurance company, and they can help you renegotiate your claim or request a supplement payment.
- Customer support. Where a preferred shop is more likely to defer to the insurance company, an independent shop is more likely to help settle a dispute in your favor.
Where can I find an independent body shop that accepts my insurance claim in Pennsylvania?
Independent shops are usually happy to work with your insurance company to repair your vehicle. But a little verification can go a long way, so it’s a good idea to give them a call before you visit. Tell the shop you’ve filed a claim with your insurer and see what they say.
If you’re looking for a collision center in and around Pottsville, PA, give us a call at Bob Weaver Collision. Not only do we have experience working with a variety of insurance carriers, but we’re also prepared to help you make the most of your claim! Don’t settle for less — you deserve premium service and quality parts.