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Dealing With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can sometimes be a confusing and unfamiliar process. Here are a few things you should know to make your dealing with the insurance company a smooth one.

If the insurance company doesn't treat you properly on those rare occasions when you submit a claim, you won't send them premium payments any more. You'll shop for a new insurance carrier. Good insurance companies understand that their claims office is intimately related to their sales branch. As a consumer, you have all the power in this relationship because you write the premium checks.

We (the insurance company, the vehicle owner, and the repair facility) all want a high-quality, cost-effective repair, but the insurance company is not treating you properly if the cost of the repair is over-emphasized, and quality suffers.

The repair shop is your choice.
In the state of Minnesota (and in most other states), the vehicle owner may select any repair facility he or she wants, amongst legitimate collision repair facilities. It is COMPLETELY the consumer's choice. The insurance company has some rights, too. Because they're writing the check, they have something to say about the amount of the repair. The insurance company prefers to pay less rather than more, but they must send enough money to repair your vehicle properly and completely. Your chosen repair shop should negotiate the final amount on your behalf.

Don't waste your time
If your insurance company asks that you get two or three estimates, be aware that there is no law that requires you to do so. It's a matter of the particular company's policy. It's a bad idea to submit an estimate from a shop that you wouldn't have repair your car. Don't ever do it. If you already know who you'll select to repair your vehicle, tell the insurance company right away. Frequently this can expedite the process. Once you've selected a repair facility, your insurance company will work with them to assure a quality repair or you'll stop sending them premiums.

Insurance companies can't tell you where you must have your vehicle repaired. Such action may even constitute restraint of trade. Beware of phrasings like: "It's the easiest if you go to one of our 'selected shops'. Sometimes insurance companies establish special relationships with repair facilities in return for discounts. Sometimes these relationships are not based on discounts but on quality and customer service. Be a careful consumer.

Insurance company estimates
Some insurance companies have their own staff of estimators. Others hire an independent adjusting company. This is fine, and can save you time. They'll determine a preliminary cost for the repair. Select the repair shop of your choice. If the insurance company's estimate is inadequate for a proper repair, the repair shop will work with the adjuster to obtain compensation for the additional repairs required.

Our advice If we've clearly explained your rights, it should be apparent that you should select the highest quality shop you can find. You'll be responsible for your deductible, if you have one. The insurance carrier is responsible for the balance. Select a shop like Larry's Auto Body, and let us work for you.