After a car accident, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether to obtain a repair estimate before contacting your insurance company. This seemingly simple decision can significantly impact your claim process, potential premium increases, and even your overall satisfaction with the repair outcome. While insurance companies typically conduct their own evaluations, having an independent estimate beforehand may provide you with valuable leverage and insight into what constitutes a fair settlement for your damaged vehicle.
At Hollis Law Firm, we regularly help clients navigate the often confusing post-accident process, including the critical initial steps of documenting damage and filing insurance claims. Understanding when and why to obtain your own repair estimate can help you make informed decisions during this stressful time.
Benefits of Getting an Independent Repair Estimate
Obtaining your own repair estimate before filing an insurance claim offers several strategic advantages that can strengthen your position throughout the claims process.
Knowledge is Power in Negotiations
When you have a professional repair estimate in hand before speaking with your insurance company, you enter the conversation from a position of strength. This independent assessment provides:
- A baseline for comparing the insurance adjuster’s estimate
- Documentation of all damage, including items that might be overlooked
- Specific parts and labor costs from a trusted repair shop
- Evidence to support your claim if the insurer’s estimate seems too low
Informed Decision About Whether to File a Claim
One of the most practical benefits of getting an estimate first is that it helps you decide whether filing a claim makes financial sense. If repairs will cost $800 and your deductible is $1,000, filing a claim provides no financial benefit and only risks a premium increase. Similarly, if repairs will cost $1,200 with a $1,000 deductible, you might choose to pay out-of-pocket rather than risk a premium increase.
When It Makes Sense to Skip the Pre-Claim Estimate
While getting an independent estimate offers advantages, there are situations where proceeding directly to the insurance claim is more practical:
Clearly Major Damage
If your vehicle has obviously extensive damage, such as severe front-end damage after a collision or massive hail damage affecting multiple panels, the repair costs will almost certainly exceed your deductible by a significant margin.
Time-Sensitive Situations
Sometimes, practical concerns make waiting for an independent estimate impractical, such as when you need a rental car immediately or your vehicle is not drivable and needs immediate towing.
How to Get the Most Useful Repair Estimate
If you decide to pursue an independent estimate, choose a reputable repair facility that specializes in your type of vehicle and has experience dealing with insurance claims. Before taking your vehicle in, thoroughly document the damage with clear photos from multiple angles and make notes about any operational issues that appeared after the incident.
Understanding How Insurance Estimates Work
Insurance adjusters use standardized software programs to calculate repair costs based on local labor rates, parts prices, standard time allocations for repair procedures, and depreciation factors. These systems often produce lower estimates than independent shops because they may specify aftermarket parts, apply depreciation, use the lowest local labor rates, or allocate less time for certain procedures.
The Claims Process After Getting an Estimate
If you decide to file a claim after receiving an independent estimate, report the claim to your insurance company, share your estimate and documentation, schedule an inspection with the insurance adjuster, and discuss any significant discrepancies between estimates. Most insurance policies give you the right to choose your own repair facility, though some may offer incentives to use their preferred shops.
Contact an Attorney for Complex Claim Situations
While most vehicle damage claims proceed routinely, complications can arise that threaten your ability to receive fair compensation for repairs. If you encounter resistance from an insurance company or believe your claim is being undervalued, consulting with an attorney may be worthwhile.
At Hollis Law Firm, we have helped numerous clients navigate challenging insurance situations following car accidents. Our attorney understands insurance company tactics and can help ensure you receive appropriate compensation for vehicle damages. If you’re facing difficulties with your claim, call us at (800) 701-3672 or complete our contact form to discuss your situation.
