Insurer Tactics and Your Right to Choose a Repair Shop
When your vehicle needs repairs after an accident, choosing the right repair facility is crucial. However, some insurers employ various steering tactics to direct consumers toward their Direct Repair Program (DRP) facilities. While these tactics might seem beneficial, it’s important to understand your rights and the potential implications of these practices.
A few of the tactics used by these dishonest insurers may include:
- Referring to DRP facilities as "preferred" or "recommended" repair shops, suggesting these are the best options.
- Offering incentives such as faster repair times, guaranteed work, or discounts for using a DRP facility.
- Providing misleading information about non-DRP shops, such as questioning their quality of work or implying that repairs will take longer or cost more.
- Pressuring consumers by suggesting that using a non-DRP shop may result in delays or additional costs in the claims process.
- Making it more convenient to use a DRP facility by arranging for direct billing or streamlining the claims process.
In California, consumer rights regarding collision repair facilities are protected under the California Insurance Code, specifically Section 758.5. This law states that an insurance company cannot require an insured to use a specific auto repair shop. Instead, the insured or claimant has the right to choose the repair facility they prefer. This provision ensures consumers have the freedom to select a repair shop they trust and feel comfortable with for their vehicle repairs.