After an accident, many drivers get a call from their insurer with a recommendation: take the car to one of their “preferred” or “direct repair” shops. It’s easy to assume you have to. You don’t.
What California law says
California Insurance Code §758.5 says an insurer may not require that a vehicle be repaired at a specific repair shop. The same law limits when an insurer can recommend a shop at all: generally only if you ask for a referral, or if they have told you that you have the right to choose your own shop.
California’s fair claims regulations also require insurers to handle auto claims fairly, including paying a reasonable cost for the repair, whichever qualified shop you pick.
Why insurers push preferred shops
Preferred shops usually have agreements with the insurance company covering pricing and paperwork. That can make the claim faster and cheaper for the insurer. It doesn’t mean the shop is the closest, the best fit for your car, or the one you trust.
What to tell your adjuster
Keep it simple: “I’ve chosen Express Collision Centers in Wasco. Please send the estimate there.” You don’t need to explain your choice. We’ll contact the adjuster, write the estimate and handle the back-and-forth.
If the adjuster pushes back
- Remind them, politely, that California law lets you choose your shop.
- Ask them to put any concern about your chosen shop in writing.
- If you still have trouble, you can contact the California Department of Insurance consumer hotline at 1-800-927-4357.
What about the guarantee?
Some insurers offer a warranty on repairs done at their preferred shops. At Express Collision Centers, your repair is guaranteed for life: if there’s a problem with our workmanship, paint or finish, we make it right for as long as you own the car.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For questions about a specific claim, contact your insurer, the California Department of Insurance or an attorney.