Do You Have to Use the Body Shop the Insurance Company Recommends?
Discover the truth about your rights when it comes to choosing where your vehicle gets repaired. Your insurance company might have suggestions, but the final decision rests with you.
The Power of Choice in Vehicle Repairs
- Highlight: Your insurance company doesn’t dictate where you get your vehicle repaired.
- Ontario Law Insight: The law stands with you. You’re free to choose your preferred motor vehicle repair shop.
Trusted Body Shops vs. Drive-in Claims
- Advice: Bypass drive-in claims centers. Rely on damage appraisals from reputable body shops you trust.
- Pro Tip: Don’t base your decision solely on initial estimates. Seek out shops known for their professionalism and thoroughness.
The “Steering” Tactic: Stay Informed
- Red Flag: If you’re told that repairs will take longer or cost more at your chosen shop, be wary. This might be a “steering” strategy.
- Legal Note: Steering isn’t just unethical—it’s illegal in Ontario.
- Further Reading: For more insights on choosing the right auto body shop, we recommend reading our other blog post.
The Reality of Insurance Preferred or DRP Shops
- Caution: Some insurance-preferred shops might prioritize their own interests over yours.
- Reflection: Whose interests are they truly serving? To delve deeper into this topic and understand the dynamics between auto body shops and insurance companies, read our blog:Â Determining if an Auto Body Shop is Working for You or the Insurance Company.
Non-OEM Parts: What You Need to Know
- Fact: Non-original parts may not offer the same quality and might not come with the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.
- Consumer Reports Mention: Some non-OEM parts have been flagged for quality concerns.
Who’s Vouching for the Repair Quality?
- Clarity: The responsibility for repair quality lies solely with the repair facility.
- Awareness: If an insurance company claims they won’t guarantee repairs unless done at their preferred shops, this might be a form of “steering”.
Encountering Insurance Denial?
- Recommendation: If your claim is denied, consider seeking legal advice.
- Media Spotlight: Explore CNN’s Anderson Cooper’s investigative report on questionable auto insurance practices.
- Further Reading: For more insights on navigating auto insurance challenges and mistakes shouldnt make at first place, check out our blog: Avoid These Lies When Dealing with Auto Insurance
Championing Your Rights
- Action: If you feel your rights are being overlooked, escalate your concerns within your insurance company.
- Resource Spotlight: The Insurance Bureau of Canada is here to help:
- Address: 777 BAY STREET, SUITE 2400, P.O. BOX 121, TORONTO ON. M5G 2C8
- Phone: 416-362-2031
- Website:Â www.ibc.ca
