Getting a great autobody repair and dealing with your insurance provider

Bodyshops want to be Direct Repair Providers (DRP's) for different insurance companies and most will happily get on the program if they can. Insurance companies are verrry careful who becomes a DRP because they don't want unhappy customers and they don't want to be over-charged by shops. When a shop becomes a DRP, they sign a contract or an agreement to provide quality repairs AND offer a warrantty to assure the repairs will last.

Contrary to most opinions, most shops do not give discounts for DRP referrals, but some insurance companies require it so some shops  give discounts for parts or material and labor.

I worked for both kinds of shops and unless I know a specific shop, I'd recommend DRP's every time. You need not use a DRP, although insurance people often times "urge" you to use their shops--called "steerage."

If you have an accident and don't know a reputable shop, use DRP's because they will do most anything to satisfy you as they don't want to lose an account.

1) Do get more than one estimate, but most laws don't you require it. (Know that there is always a variation in estimates--always)

2) Don't ask shops to waive your deductible; that is illegal and they--not you, can be cited for it. If you want to save on your deductible, ask the shop to provide additional work for free or at a heavy discount. Ask for a free rental car, a new windshield, or other service your car needs.

3) If the insurance company gives appearance allowances for slightly damaged parts; that money can be used for your deductible.

4) If the other person in the accident is insured with the same company as you, most insurance companies will waive the deductible.

5) If you have coverage for car rental and you have a spare car and won't need the car; you can request the cash instead.

6) If you have frame damage, ask if they have technicians that are "unibody & space frame " certified. Ask to see their certificates.

7) Ask if the shop "guarantees the color match."

8) Ask about their warrantty.

Don't get in arguements with your insurance adjuster, work with them. Their job is a hard one and if you want to fight them, they are well equipped to take you on. But most just want to settle the claim and have a satisfied customer and will appreciate a light touch instead of someone who reams them out. ( A doctor that had a claim against a good and reputable insurance company told me he was sueing them because they didn't pay for an expensive new part on a 10 year old car. He was going to pay a lawyer to get a $350 part paid for. He never realized insurance companies have lawyers on retainer and it cost them nothing to fight it.)

I think most shops are honest and the majority of insurance companies are too but sometimes this isn't the case. If you aren't satisfied, there is always your insurance commissioner or the courts but I found most people want to settle the repairs and move on.

Good luck and be safe out there.

Cody