Should I Get an Estimate Before Filing a Car Insurance Claim?

I talk to a lot of customers at our Scottsdale collision center who haven't been involved in a car accident in years. That's great news! However, the collision repair and car insurance industries are constantly evolving. So, the process might feel different from the last time you filed a claim or had a repair done. Below, I’ll address some common questions I hear from clients.

One of the most frequent questions I get is whether to get a collision repair estimate first or file an insurance claim. Many people come in for a free estimate just to understand the potential costs. Once they have a rough idea of the repair expenses, they can decide if making a claim or paying out of pocket makes more sense for their financial situation.

Should I File a Claim? Remember, auto parts can be quite expensive. If the damage seems extensive—like bent panels, broken lights, or damaged moldings—it could lead to higher repair costs. Consider the year, make, and model of your vehicle. For luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz or Land Rover, parts tend to be pricier. A single headlight or taillight can easily cost over $1,000. In situations like these, filing an insurance claim might be the better option.

Can I Pay Out of Pocket? Not all collision centers in Scottsdale will accept customer-pay repairs. Most major national chains prefer to work directly with insurance companies. If you're paying out of pocket or dealing with an insurer your shop isn't contracted with, you might need to contact several centers to find one that meets your needs.

What Does a Minor Collision Repair Cost? To get a better understanding, take a close look at the damage. Don't just focus on the dent; check the surrounding areas. Are adjacent panels scratched? Is the light cracked or the trim damaged? All these factors contribute to the overall repair cost. Even small accidents can involve multiple components that need attention.

Should I Use My Insurance or the Other Party’s Insurance? Ideally, if someone else caused the accident, you should reach out to their insurance provider. However, there are exceptions. Sometimes, the at-fault party’s coverage limits may not cover the full repair cost, or they might be uninsured. Additionally, some insurance companies are less responsive or provide poor service. In such cases, customers often opt to file a claim through their own policy and let their insurer handle subrogation with the other party’s carrier.

Is It Cheaper to Pay Out of Pocket? Honest, professional collision repair shops charge the same prices regardless of whether you’re paying directly or via insurance. Industry standards dictate the cost of parts, materials, and labor. Shops following OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or industry-approved repair procedures cannot cut corners to save money. Your vehicle deserves proper restoration, and reputable centers prioritize safety above all else.

Why Is the Insurance Estimate Lower Than the Collision Shop's? There’s often a significant difference between insurance estimates and those provided by collision centers. The primary reason is that insurers typically generate estimates based on photos. An adjuster can only account for visible damage in the images, which serves as a starting point. Once the vehicle enters the shop and is fully dismantled, additional damage may emerge. These findings result in supplements, or adjustments to the original estimate.

Do Collision Centers Inflate Bills for Insurers? Reputable collision centers adhere strictly to OEM or industry repair protocols. Each labor operation has a corresponding cost in the estimating database, meaning legitimate repairs appear accurately on invoices. The shop assumes liability for the work performed, ensuring your vehicle is restored correctly. Cutting corners isn’t an option because customers expect flawless outcomes.

Will My Rates Increase After Filing a Claim? This depends largely on your insurer's policies. Some carriers consider factors such as your tenure, claim history, and individual circumstances. Long-term customers are generally valued by insurers, as they aim to retain loyal clients and their referrals. Always discuss this concern with your agent to understand how claims impact premiums.

Which Is the Best Insurance Company? Bargain-priced policies sometimes lead to costly mistakes. When purchasing coverage, you assume your vehicle will receive proper repairs using quality parts if a claim arises. Some insurers might use inferior components, reject necessary labor charges, or fail to respond promptly to inquiries from either you or the repair shop. Before switching providers, ask around—friends, family, and neighbors can share valuable insights about their experiences.

At Airpark Collision Center, we understand many clients lack familiarity with collision repair processes and insurance procedures. Selecting the wrong facility can create unnecessary complications later. Our team prioritizes driver and passenger safety by strictly adhering to industry or OEM guidelines. As a family-owned business established in 2006, we focus on delivering top-tier collision services alongside exceptional customer care. Feel free to call us for a free estimate or visit our website today!