The general rule
In most situations, the owner of the vehicle chooses the repair facility. An insurance company may recommend one of its preferred or Direct Repair Program shops. A recommendation is not automatically an instruction, and it is not automatically a limit on where you can go.
Policy terms, coverage and applicable law vary, and there can be practical consequences to your choice — for example, how a rate or repair procedure is handled on the estimate. That is exactly the kind of thing you should discuss with a shop before you decide, not after.
What you should actually base the decision on
- Quality of repairs and the shop's repair philosophy.
- Quality of parts used and willingness to explain parts decisions.
- Adherence to manufacturer repair procedures.
- Attention to structural integrity and safety systems.
- Communication — will they call you back?
- Advocacy during the insurance process.
- Experience with complicated claims and disputed liability.
- Whether the shop is willing to stand up for you.
Don't choose a repair facility simply because an insurance adjuster named it. Choose it because you decided it's the right shop for your vehicle.
If your insurer says "take it here"
Don't panic, and don't assume you have no choice. Call Airpark Auto Collision. We'll discuss your situation, explain what's likely happening behind the scenes, and tell you what your options look like before you commit your vehicle to anyone.