Getting Your Car Repaired Out of Network

Auto insurance companies cannot make policyholders choose a workshop that is preferred by the auto insurance company according to law. Consumers have the right to get their car repaired at a place they feel comfortable with.

In New York, some auto insurance companies were flagged for behavior that violated these laws by suggesting that getting their car repaired with an affiliated auto repair shop would be faster or that a car must be inspected at a certain place.

When filing an auto insurance claim, it is up to you to decide where you want the car repaired. Some consumers feel that it is easier working with an auto shop affiliated with their auto insurance provider, but others may have a trusted mechanic they may prefer to deal with.

Whatever the case, keep good records during your auto insurance claims process of receipts, conversations with the auto repair shop and those with your auto insurance company, especially written communication, to avoid any setbacks in the handling of your auto insurance claim.