It’s ‘Your Car Your Choice’. Although insurance companies know well that they cannot insist that a vehicle is repaired at their chosen garage, they use many tactics to convince motorists otherwise.
Large insurers try to confuse motorists by claiming that so-called ‘approved’ garages are better, when all ‘approved’ means in practice is that a garage has made an agreement to work at a discount and using methods determined by the insurer on the expectation a high volume of repairs being directed to them by the insurance company.
There are over 300 independent accident repair centres across the country that are able to help you. Many are small, family businesses that offer local employment and have been around for decades. They will work for you alone and will engage with an independent motor engineer assessor or a insurer on your behalf to ensure your vehicle is repaired using the correct manufacturer-approved methods using only manufacturer parts unless YOU request otherwise.
So please insist on using the provider that you know and trust and one that can give you independent advice.
FALSE. An insurers appointed engineer can discuss repair costs directly with your appointed garage or your appointed motor engineer assessor.
FALSE. All garages will provide a guarantee.
FALSE. Many garages are able to provide a replacement vehicle, and if the accident is not your fault, can arrange for you to be provided with a like-for-like vehicle at no cost to you.
FALSE. There is no reason why repairs should take any longer just because a repairer is chosen by you.
FALSE. Some insurers try to impose a higher policy excess if you choose your own repairer. This is an unfair practice and one that can be challenged.
So, if you need to make an insurance claim, remember independent repairers will be able to guide you through the process and ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly.
