 When an automobile is damaged by collision, vandalism, theft, or fire, a
consumer must decide where to go for repairs. Some insurance companies maintain
lists of "preferred" auto body repair shops, which the insurance company might
recommend the consumer use. Remember, the consumer has the choice of whether or not to use
an insurance company’s preferred shop.
Select the auto body
repair shop to repair auto body damage covered by the insurance company. An insurance
company may not require the repairs to be done at a specific auto body repair shop.
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, after-market, reconditioned, or rebuilt.
Be informed about
coverage for towing services. Unless the insurance company has provided an insured with
the name of a specific towing company prior to the insured’s use of another towing
company, the insurance company must pay all reasonable towing charges of the towing
company used by the insured.
Be informed about the
extent of coverage, if any, for a replacement rental vehicle while a damaged vehicle is
being repaired.
Be informed of where to
report suspected fraud or other complaints and concerns about auto body repairs.
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