Even if you have auto insurance, the claims process is tricky to navigate. That’s why our facility works directly with all providers to help complete the insurance repairs your vehicle requires.
It’s your responsibility to choose a collision repair shop, not your insurance company’s. Some providers may want you to visit their drive-in claims center before going to a repair shop. But remember: You can bring it to the repair shop of your choice, not your provider’s choice. We work directly with vehicle manufacturers to perform the appropriate inspections and computer diagnostics needed to restore your vehicle’s integrity. Our company employs and partners with only the best in the industry.
After 35 years in business, we still get the same question about insurance companies:
“Do You Have to Use The Body Shop The Insurance Company Recommends?”
No you do not have to use the body shop that the insurance company recommended. In the majority of cases, the choice is yours.
Most insurance companies have repair contracts with body shops in your area. Choosing the insurance company’s repair shop has benefits for your provider, which has negotiated lower labor and material rates, as well as parts discounts with those shops. The shop will have met the insurance company’s equipment and training requirements. Many insurance companies also require their shop to provide a lifetime warranty.
Most providers would like to see at least 40 percent of their claims go to their direct repair shops. If you have chosen your own repair shop, claims representatives will frequently try to sway you away from your decision. They may tell you that your shop isn’t on their list, and thus, they won’t be able to handle your claim efficiently. They may claim it will be a week or more before you can get an estimate on your insurance repairs. You may be told that your provider will not warranty the repairs if you don’t repair your car at their preferred shop.
Don’t be intimidated by this. Insurance providers cannot legally try to “direct,” “steer,” or “refer” you to a particular shop. Reputable collision repair shops like Big Sky Collision Centers provide a lifetime warranty no matter who is paying the bill. We’re also familiar with your insurance company’s claims process and know the local adjusters. This makes it easy to complete the estimate process and repairs quickly.
A Collision Repair Center You Can Trust
The bottom line is: You should choose a repair shop that you can trust. Ask friends, family and co-workers for recommendations. You can also research body shop reviews online through websites like Google, Yelp and Bing.
If your insurance carrier is State Farm, All State, Farmers, USAA, Geico, Progressive, Mercury, American National, American Family, The General, California Casualty, Hagerty, Chubb, Grundy, or some other insurance company, we can handle your claim from start to finish. We can also set you up in a rental car (on premises) for an easy transition. When you work with us, the auto insurance claims process runs much more smoothly.