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

Most people I talk to at our Scottsdale collision center haven't had a car accident in years. That's great news! However, just like anything else, the collision repair and car insurance industries evolve. So, the process might be different from the last time you dealt with a claim or a repair. Below, I’ll address some common questions I hear from customers at our Scottsdale collision center.

 

Should I Get an Estimate First or File an Insurance Claim? Many customers come in for a free estimate just to get an idea of the repair costs. This helps them decide whether it’s better to file a claim or pay out of pocket. Understanding the potential repair expenses gives you more control over the decision-making process.

 

Should I File an Insurance Claim? Auto parts can be expensive, so if the damage seems extensive—like dented panels, broken lights, or damaged moldings—it might be worth considering filing a claim. Also, think about your car’s make, model, and year. High-end brands like Mercedes-Benz or Land Rover can have pricey parts, sometimes over $1,000 for a single headlight or taillight. In such cases, filing a claim might make sense.

 

Can I Pay Out of Pocket? Not all collision centers in Scottsdale will handle customer-paid repairs. Most big national chains only work with insurance companies. If you’re paying out of pocket or dealing with an insurer your provider isn’t partnered with, you may need to call around to find a collision center that meets your needs.

 

How Much Does a Minor Collision Repair Cost? Take a close look at the damage. Don’t just focus on the dent itself—what’s around it? Are nearby panels scratched or scuffed? Are lights cracked or moldings damaged? All these factors contribute to the overall repair cost. Addressing everything properly ensures your car is fully restored.

 

Should I File a Claim on My Insurance or the Other Party’s Insurance? Ideally, if someone else is at fault, you should reach out to their insurance company. However, there are exceptions. For instance, if the other party’s coverage limits are too low to cover your repairs or if they’re uninsured, you might have to use your own policy. Sometimes, the other party’s insurer may be unresponsive or difficult to work with, leading you to file through your own carrier and pursue subrogation later.

Is It Cheaper to Pay Out of Pocket? Honest, professional collision repair shops charge similar prices regardless of whether you’re paying directly or going through insurance. Shops that adhere to industry or manufacturer repair standards can’t cut corners to save money. Following proper repair protocols ensures your car is fixed correctly and safely.

 

Why Is the Insurance Estimate Lower Than the Collision Center’s? There’s often a noticeable difference between insurance estimates and collision repair shop estimates. Insurance companies typically create estimates based on photos, which only give a partial view of the damage. These estimates serve as a starting point, but once the vehicle is fully dismantled, the collision center may find additional damage requiring supplements. Supplements are adjustments to the original estimate after further inspection.

 

Do Collision Centers Inflate Prices for Insurance Companies? Reputable collision centers follow OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or industry repair guidelines. Every labor operation has a listed cost in the estimating database, so if it’s part of the repair procedure, it’s included in the bill. Collision centers are responsible for ensuring repairs are done correctly, and customers expect their vehicles to be fixed properly. There’s no room for shortcuts.

 

Will My Insurance Rates Increase If I File a Claim? This depends on your insurance provider and policy terms. Some insurers consider factors like how long you’ve been with them, the number of previous claims, and the cost of those claims. Many insurance companies value loyal customers and aim to keep them satisfied. Be sure to discuss this with your agent to understand how claims might impact your premiums.

 

What’s the Best Insurance Company? Bargain-priced insurance policies can lead to issues down the line. When purchasing coverage, you assume the insurer will repair your vehicle properly using quality parts. Some companies, however, might opt for inferior parts, deny necessary labor operations, or fail to communicate effectively with both you and the collision center. Before switching providers, ask people you trust about their experiences with various insurers.

 

At Airpark Collision Center, we understand that many customers feel overwhelmed by the collision repair and insurance processes. Choosing the wrong repair facility can lead to unnecessary stress. Our team prioritizes driver and passenger safety by adhering to industry or OEM repair standards. Since opening in 2006, we’ve focused on delivering quality repairs and exceptional customer service. Call us today to schedule a free estimate or learn more about our services.