Autobody Issues? Its your car, your choice who will fix it!

Connecticut motorists are finally being told the truth: they have the right to determine where they will have their vehicles repaired in the event of an accident.

A new law, effective this past January 1st, reinforces motorist's rights to have their auto repaired by a qualified, licensed, competent auto body shop of their own choosing.

Some repair shops that insurance companies refer policy owners to often charge less, but, that's because they may use substandard parts and cut corners on repairs so even consumer safety may be in jeopardy. Deceptively referring consumers to insurance company "preferred" shops has been illegal for decades, but, far too often the insurance companies have been able to bully unsuspecting consumers.

This new law is the rest of years of efforts by the Auto Body Association of Connecticut in conjunction with Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, to whom we and the motoring public owe our thanks.

Specifically, the new law requires that motorists who have been involved in an accident with vehicle damage must be notified that they have a choice of repair facilities. This notification must appear on insurance identification cards, on estimates supplied by the insurance company or repair shops, and also be clearly posted on signs in all body shops.

It's your car, your choice.

This is a giant step forward. It will go a long way to help educate consumers that they don't have to be afraid of insurance companies. It's your car, and your choice of where to have it repaired.

Now, its up to consumers to take advantage of this new legislation. Consumers still must have the courage to go to the repair facility of their choice. Don't be fooled by inaccurate suggestions of out-of-pocket costs or statements about repair delays.

A knowledgable consumer should call or visit more than one repair facility when in an accident, in order to learn which shop is qualified to repair your car properly. This is critical when you want to maintain the value of a vehicle after the repair, or, simply ensure that the safety features in your vehicle operate as designed.

Beware of low ball estimates! You have the right to a proper repair! The facility with the lowest estimate may base that estimate on using substandard, after-market parts, that are not authorized for use in many vehicles. Or, in many cases leave out necessary procedures needed to bring your car back to pre-loss condition. In fact, the warranty on many new cars will become void if the car is repaired with non-approved parts.

One last thing. We have seen some terrible repairs done by auto body shops. If you are in doubt, or, would like us to assist you in locating a reputable body shop near your home, please call us.