Working with Insurance Companies Know Your Rights to Make the Right Choices! Consumers need to know that insurance companies cannot force them to use a specific shop. The consumer has the right to choose their own shop and this is a right protected by law in CA Insurance companies like to steer people towards their "drp" or discount repair provider.
It’s Your Car, It’s Your Choice.
Your insurance company may try to direct you to their preferred auto body shops. Did you know some insurance companies have ownership in some shops? It makes you wonder if the body shop is really working for you or the insurance company. West Coast Collision Repair does not participate in any of the repair networks. These networks require concessions or stipulations in the repair contracts, which generally leads to a lower cost or lower quality repair. We believe we have a responsibility to you, the vehicle owner, who is ultimately our customer, not the insurance company.
The insurance companies will use different tactics or outline the process in different phrasing because the state does not allow insurance companies to direct or “steer” you to a particular shop (or at least they are not supposed to), so they have come up with the following word phrasing to intimidate you into thinking you have to do what the insurance company says or they will not pay the claim. Some companies also have bonus programs for employees that steer claims to the networks, so don’t think that they have your best interest in mind (they may be attempting to hit a bonus quota).
We’re more than happy to assist you in the claims process. The truth is we work with about every company out there, more importantly we do not lose sight of who the customer is- YOU! We realize the investment you have in your vehicle and we want to make sure the value of your investment is not diminished through poor quality repairs.
Ask us what insurance companies we recommend, we always prefer companies that have local agents that can meet with you face to face, we are not a fan of most of the internet based insurance policies, BEWARE you get what you pay for and you do not realize the value of a good company until you have a claim.
Here are your rights, as established by the State of California:
You may select the auto body repair shop to repair auto body damage covered by the insurance company. An insurance company shall not require the repairs to be done at a specific auto body repair shop. The insurance adjuster will come to the shop of your choice to start your claim process. That is their job.
You must receive an itemized written estimate for auto body repairs and, upon completion of repairs, a detailed invoice. The estimate and the invoice must include an itemized list of parts and labor along with the total price for the work performed. The estimate and invoice must also identify all parts as new, used, aftermarket, reconditioned or rebuilt.
You may direct the towing service to tow your vehicle to the shop of your choice. The insurance company must inform you about coverage for towing and storage services. There may be a mileage limit, so ask!
You should know if your insurance company covers a replacement rental vehicle while your damaged vehicle is being repaired.
Seek and obtain an independent repair estimate directly from a registered auto body repair shop for repair of a damaged vehicle, even when pursuing an insurance claim for repairing the vehicle.
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