In a perfect world, auto body shops and insurance companies would seamlessly collaborate to ensure that vehicles involved in accidents are restored to a fully roadworthy condition. However, the reality can sometimes be quite different. Disputes frequently arise between these two entities, leaving car owners without their vehicles for far longer than necessary after an accident.
At DaSilva’s Auto Body, we prioritize safety above all else. Our team of skilled technicians uses only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for repairs and meticulously calculates the exact labor hours needed to guarantee that your vehicle is as safe as possible. But even with our dedication to excellence, there are still several challenges we encounter when dealing with insurance claims.
One common issue we face involves disputed estimates. Following an accident, the insurance provider typically requests photographs through their app or sends out an adjuster for an in-person evaluation. Subsequently, an auto body shop evaluates the damage using advanced, computerized systems and provides an estimate to the insurance company. More often than not, the shop's estimate tends to be higher due to the sophisticated tools that reveal hidden internal damage. Ideally, the insurance provider would adjust its estimate accordingly, recognizing that not all damage is visible on the exterior. Unfortunately, the insurance company might approve a smaller payout or challenge certain repairs deemed unnecessary by them. This leaves the car owner responsible for covering the remaining costs or waiting indefinitely while the disagreement gets resolved.
Another point of contention revolves around whether to replace or repair specific parts. When our team determines that a particular component needs replacement—especially when adhering to the manufacturer’s specifications—the insurance carrier often insists on repairing the damaged part instead. It then becomes our responsibility to demonstrate why the part cannot be salvaged and must be replaced with a similar one.
The debate over OEM versus aftermarket parts also plays a significant role in these disputes. While aftermarket parts do offer some advantages, their overall quality compared to OEM counterparts varies greatly. Consequently, many auto body shops prefer using OEM parts because they match the original specifications of your vehicle, adhere to the manufacturer’s standards, and often come with warranties. From a purely financial perspective, some insurance providers attempt to persuade auto body shops to opt for cheaper aftermarket or salvaged parts. Even if the carrier agrees to use OEM parts, the policyholder might need to cover any additional expenses beyond what their policy covers. Always check if your insurance carrier excludes OEM parts and carefully review your repair estimate post-assessment.
Additionally, there’s the matter of labor duration and rates. During the evaluation phase, both parties agree on the required repairs and the estimated timeframe. Yet, insurance carriers occasionally pressure auto body shops into completing the work faster and for less money. They might also question the shop’s hourly labor rate if it exceeds their predetermined amount.
Recently, auto body shops have been debating whether to join insurers’ direct repair programs (DRPs). These networks promise consistent client flow but pose risks too. If a shop asks for more labor hours, better parts, or compensation exceeding the carrier’s limits, jobs could be redirected elsewhere. Moreover, numerous shops now bear the burden of addressing potential liabilities arising from their repairs.
Extreme instances, as reported by CNN, show how aggressive cost-cutting strategies by some insurers within DRP shops result in substandard repairs. For example, parts are held together with glue rather than proper fasteners, and inferior junkyard components are used, worsening the vehicle’s condition.
At DaSilva’s Auto Body, we’re committed not only to delivering top-notch repairs but also to ensuring smooth interactions with insurance providers. By working closely with local agents, we aim to simplify the claims process for our clients. Should you require routine maintenance or repairs, feel free to reach out to us anytime.
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