Where do I repair my vehicle after an auto collision?
Under Arkansas law and Insurance Department Rules, consumers have a choice in where they get their estimate and vehicle repaired following an accident. An insurance company may not require that repairs be made by a particular contractor, supplier, or repair shop as a condition of the payment of a claim. If they do, then they are in violation of an “unfair claims settlement practice.”
Insurers are allowed to give consumers a list of preferred repair shops, but consumers aren’t required to choose one of those preferred shops. Consumers have the right to choose their own mechanic shop for repair after an auto accident.
Prior to choosing any repair shop, consumers should always compare mechanic shop reviews and complaints on the Arkansas Better Business Bureau website (type in the name of the business in the search bar to view complaints).
AUTHOR: CECILLE DOAN, STAFF ATTORNEY FOR THE CENTER FOR ARKANSAS LEGAL SERVICES