Car accident victims who have sustained injuries must know their legal rights. For instance, they can decide which car repair shop should check and repair their vehicle, regardless of what the insurer may tell them. Although they may gain benefits from using a repair shop an insurance company may recommend, the victim should be able to make their own decision. If you are one of these victims and have questions regarding your rights, consult a houston car accident attorney. Your lawyer will also explain to you what your legal options are.
Picking a Car Repair Shop After a Car Accident: What Does the Law Say
The law requires insurance providers to give notice to insured people who file a claim for damage to their cars. This notice should explain their right to choose the car repair shop to repair their car, together with the parts used for repairing it. Also, the notice should say it is not a requirement for the company to pay an amount beyond what’s reasonable for repairing the car or acquiring parts.
How Car Accident Victims Can be Misled
Often, insurance companies may want claimants to take their vehicles to a repair shop they regularly work with. This way, they can be sure this shop won’t overcharge for repairs or parts. Also, this will reduce hiccups with paperwork.
Although the insurance company can always make a recommendation to victims, they should not pressure the latter into picking one. However, insurance claims adjusters don’t mind this. They will say a lot of things that can convince a victim to chose the repair shop of their choice. But, their statements may not be accurate.
Which Repair Shop Should Victims Go For?
Usually, a car is one of the major investments people make. That is why car owners must ensure it is dependable and safe, especially following a car crash. They must look for a repair shop they can trust and do their homework to be sure.
Most victims may depend on what some people they know recommend. Also, they can look up reviews of various repair shops to know more about the experiences of previous customers with a shop. Once a car accident victim visits a shop, they must ask about the availability of repair warranty and know which parts they will to use. Although every car owner will not want to be overcharged, it is not a good idea to pay too little because this can translate to compromises somewhere.