Getting Your Car Fixed the Way YOU Want vs. What Insurance Approves: What Are Your Options?

Are the repairs your car needs conflicting with what your insurance company wants to spend? Sometimes obtaining your policy benefits can take a little negotiating, but don’t worry — we’re here to help.

Key Takeaways

You don’t have to utilize any of your insurance company’s preferred shops. In Pennsylvania, the law says you can choose your own body shop!
If your insurance company is low-balling your claim, obtaining an independent estimate can help you negotiate.
Don’t be afraid to ask for the benefits listed in your policy, such as OEM parts!
The more you know about the repairs you need, the better prepared you’ll be to negotiate your claim.

Insurance Preferred Body Shop vs. Independent Shops

Can I choose my own body shop instead of the insurance recommendation? Yes! In fact, Pennsylvania law says your insurance company can’t force you to use their preferred shops.

The benefits insurers reap from their preferred network may include friendly pricing and used-part sourcing.

However, what benefits your insurance company doesn’t necessarily benefit you or your car. By choosing your own body shop, you can put your priorities — like high-quality parts and trustworthy service — first! At Bob Weaver Collision Center we are on your side.

Independent Estimates

Is your insurance adjuster’s estimate too low? Your insurance company may want to pay a discounted price at its preferred shops, but they can’t deny your claim simply because you choose to visit an independent shop. By obtaining an estimate from your trusted independent body shop, you can help show your insurance company that they’ll be paying a fair market rate for repairs. Plus, an experienced independent shop like Bob Weaver Collision Center in Pottsville can deal with your insurer directly and help you renegotiate a too-low estimate.

Voice Your Concerns

To get the most out of your claim, you need to know what your policy covers (and what it doesn’t). For instance, if your policy allots for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts over “like kind and quality” or aftermarket parts, it’s in your interest to insist on the former.

By keeping in contact with your insurer, you can also deal with any issues as they arise. If your body shop gets to work and finds more accident-related issues than they expected, for example, you can contact your insurance company and request a supplemental payment to cover the extra costs. (An experienced shop like Bob Weaver can help you with this, too.)

A Little Education Goes a Long Way

Get comfortable with the auto repair market by getting to know it a little better. When you know more about what body shop work and current price ranges, you can trust that you’re choosing a reputable shop.

Here at Bob Weaver Collision in Pottsville, PA, we specialize in collision body work. We also have experience handling insurance claims, and we’re here to make sure things go smoothly for everyone involved. Not to mention our priorities are your priorities — we want you to reap the benefits of high-quality auto parts and service!