Collision Insurance Myths

If you're confused by collision insurance coverage, you're not alone. There are many myths surrounding insurance that can keep you from using your insurance effectively and getting the best repair job for your car. Don't simply trust what your insurance company tells you; they may not have your best interests at heart. Instead, educate yourself and learn all about collision insurance coverage myths. With our help, you can protect your car and your wallet.

Collision Insurance Coverage Myths

1. You are required to take your car to the repair shop your insurance company prefers. Although your insurance agency will probably recommend a repair shop (and the shop may be in their network), you can take your car anywhere you like. Even if the insurance company insists, you have the right to choose your own repair shop. In fact, you might want to refrain from using the recommended shop because if they're collaborating with your insurance company and lowering their prices, they may not give you a high-quality repair job.

2. Multiple estimates are required after an accident. By law, you are only required to get one estimate. If you want to get multiple appraisals, that's fine too.

3. The insurance company and repair shop may not agree on a price. If they don't and the insurance estimate is lower than the cost of repairs, you must pay the difference. Your insurance agency and repair shop should agree on a fair price. If you choose well, your repair shop will advocate for you and provide evidence of all the damage sustained. Collision insurance coverage should cover the entire cost of the damage. You should not pay anything but the deductible.

4. You must use the repair shop with the lowest bid. As I've noted already, you can choose whichever repair shop you like and you don't have to get more than one bid. Your insurance agency may push you to go with the lowest estimate, but you should choose the repair shop based on their knowledge, expertise, and customer service, not their low price. Low bidders rarely have the best service.

5. After your insurance company writes you a check, any additional costs must be paid by you. The insurance company should pay for everything (except for the deductible). The estimate was only an estimate and if additional repairs are needed, your insurance company should send you another check.

6. Your car will inevitably decrease in value. Choose a great repair shop (one with mechanics that are both trustworthy and talented) so that your car will retain its value prior to the accident. A great mechanic will get your car back to its original condition and it will not decrease in value.

By learning and using these collision repair insurance myths, you can make educated decisions regarding your car and be prepared in the event of a collision.