Blog Layout
Your Right to Choose Your Collision Center in the US
Car Insurance Companies | Vehicle Repair
Knowing your rights and getting the correct vehicle repair are key to relieving the stress of dealing with car insurance companies after you’ve had a collision.
Statistics say that everyone, at some point in their driving life, will be involved in a collision. And the first time it happens – hoping it can also be the last – can be a daunting and stressful experience.
For example, did you know many car insurance companies will actively steer you towards using their preferred shop? Hint: it’s the majority.
Well, here at the Dealership Autoplex Collision Center, we’re here to help and guide you on your rights. This way, you can make an informed decision on your vehicle repair including being able to choose the right collision repair center that suits you.
So, let’s look into some of those rights in more depth with the most common questions:
1. What Do I Need to Do After a Car Accident?
The first thing to note is that, when it comes to the state of Texas, you have 10 days before you have to report an accident with the DMV and the local law enforcement.
Although you have this time period, we’d recommend you report immediately after the collision. This will likely smooth your claims process and increase your chances of recovering your losses. Plus, your memory will be fresh for reporting the exact details.
The second this to be conscious about is that many car insurance companies and courts rely on police reports as vital evidence. So, having an officer assess the scene of the incident assists insurers in determining clearly who was at fault.
2. When Should You Report an Accident to Car Insurance Companies?
While you have 10 days to report a car accident or collision to the DMV and local law enforcement, it’s different when it comes to the car insurance companies.
Many car insurance policies might say you should initiate the claims process right away at the time of the incident. Or, within 24 hours of when the damage to your vehicle was done.
But this isn’t the last word.
The shorter time frame stated on your policy is not a requirement. In fact, it doesn’t preclude you or any another driver in the accident from filing a claim or lawsuit months or even years later. As long as it’s within the statute of limitations of the state where the accident occurred (whether this is Texas or elsewhere). Your Right to Choose Your Collision Center in the US
This is because some injuries and mechanical damage are not apparent until days or weeks after an accident occurs. Some, such as lower back pain, doesn’t even show any sign for over a year.
3. How Long Do Car Insurance Companies Take to Process a Claim?
In Texas, your rights surrounding vehicle repair include having insurance companybased time limits on claims processing. This means car insurance companies generally have to confirm receiving your claim and the “request needed information” within 15 calendar days.
Once all information that has been requested has been received, the car insurance companies must deny or approve the claim in writing within another 15 days (but, this time, it’s business days).
So, after 30 days you’ll know they’ve received your claim for vehicle repair. And after another 21 days, you’ll know whether your claim has been approved or denied.
That said, if they notify you to say more time is needed, and they provide a legitimate reason why, then they are allowed an additional 45 days.
4. Can I Choose My Own Shop for My Vehicle Repair?
Yes, you absolutely you can.
In the Texas Consumer Bill of Rights, it states that after an accident, you have the right to bring your vehicle to the mechanic of your choice.
For example, you could bring your wheels into the Dealership Autoplex Collision Center for your vehicle repair even if it isn’t the suggested body shop of your insurance company.
However, many car insurance companies will try and deter you from using your chosen shop.
But despite what your insurer may tell you, you do have the legal right to pick your own shop. If your insurer refuses to pay because you are using a shop that they are not contracted with, they are violating the law.
5. Is There a Reason to Choose the Car Insurance Company’s Shop?
While you have the choice about where to send your car for vehicle repair, it doesn’t mean there is something wrong with the choice of your insurer. In fact, there are many reasons you may want to use the shop recommended by car insurance companies such as:
● It’s backed by your insurer Your Right to Choose Your Collision Center in the US
● There’s no back and forth for approvals
● It’s usually billed directly, so there’s no involvement with additional paperwork
● Repairs are often guaranteed
6. Why Should I Choose to Use My Own Shop for a Vehicle Repair?
If you use a shop that you know and trust, it stands to reason you’d want to use them for your vehicle repair. Especially if they’re close to home and you know the ropes of the shop.
It can be as simple as trust, finding an ASE certified shop or knowing the mechanic who knows your car's history.
As well as this, many car insurance companies use centers that may be miles away from where you live which isn’t exactly convenient. Even if they give you a courtesy vehicle for the time being.
A last reason for choosing your own collision center is the fact that you’ll also be supporting local business rather than corporate names, especially when they’re close to home.
And there you have it. We hope we’ve helped answer some of your questions regarding your rights to choose your collision center here in Texas and the US, as a whole.
So, if you're thinking about where to go for your vehicle repair and whether or not to stray from the choice of your insurer, give us a holla on (972) 242-0092. Or browse the website to see our range of services such as shuttle services and our opening times. Alternatively, drive directly into the shop to see the team here in Carrollton, TX.
Spray-On Bedliner | Truck Bedliner
Tire Alignment | Wheel Alignment
Paintless Dent Repair | PDR