- By California Law, You have the right to choose your own repair shop; you are not obligated to have your car repairs done recommended or contracted with your insurance company.
- There is No Law that requires you to get more than one repair estimate. Choose a repair shop that can document and itemize damage evaluation for the repair of your vehicle and that you are comfortable with. However, you are required by your policy to allow your insurance company a reasonable amount of time to inspect the damages prior to repairing them.
- Your insurance company wants your vehicle properly repaired and you to be completely satisfied with their claim service. You have specific rights and obligations that you should be aware of. Review your policy. Understand your rights.
- If an agreement cannot be reached between your insurance company and the repair shop, your policy has an “Appraisal Clause” whereby an independent appraiser can be called in to help resolve the matter.
- Only you, the owner, can authorize repairs on your vehicle.
- Repair estimates will vary. A lower estimate may not include necessary things such as front or rear wheel alignments, inner structural or mechanical damage… It’s your car; make sure it’s repaired properly and to your satisfaction.
- Sign releases only when the repairs have been completed to your satisfaction.
- The vehicle is being repaired for YOU, the owner. You will be required to pay for the repairs upon completion. To avoid delays, it will be up to you to secure payment from your insurance company along with any necessary endorsements from lienholders.
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