After an auto accident, one of the first calls people typically make is to their insurance company. If you’re like most people, you would be relieved that you have auto body coverage and possibly a little shaken from the accident. In that vulnerable condition, you might quickly heed the advice of your agent, who could produce a list of “preferred auto body shops” from which to choose. Did you know that many insurance companies commit fraud by sending you to their shops?
Such preferred shops are not held to a higher standard than other shops. Instead, most insurance companies assemble these lists based on shops willing to skimp on parts and take other shortcuts – to protect their bottom lines instead of guarding your safety.
CNN Investigates Insurance Fraud
A recent CNN investigation, which appeared on Anderson Cooper 360, reveals the heinous nature of these practices, which are currently under fire in Louisiana:
Citing more than 500 shops in 36 states, the Louisiana class action lawsuit accuses major insurers of having a “deliberate system.” The system sends consumers to shops who do the “absolute bare minimum.” Desperate for work, small body shop owners may agree to the terms to land lucrative insurance accounts instead of refusing to compromise customer safety.
Does your insurance company have your back?
California Insurance Fraud Protection
In Southern California, where C&L Auto Body is located, under the California Insurance Code, a consumer is not required to have repairs done at an insurance company-recommended automobile repair shop. You have the right to choose whoever you want to hire to repair your vehicle. This is true after a collision or other accident that causes damage to your car. Don’t let your insurer bully you. You and your family’s safety are of paramount importance. It isn’t your responsibility to get your insurance company the best deal for repairs. After all, you pay premiums for the luxury of worry-free driving and top-quality repairs.
The best way to fight against auto body corruption is to carefully check policies before you need body work. Reviewing your policy on an annual basis is a good idea, anyway. Make sure your policy remains current. And don’t forget to read the fine print. This is because many insurance policies bury references to “non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts.”
The “go-to” location for auto body repair and classic restoration in the San Gabriel Valley since 1970 is C&L Auto Body. We pay attention to detail, provide courteous service, and offer fair and affordable prices. If you select C&L to repair your car, our concierge service will help make your entire auto body repair process easy on you. We will help arrange for a rental car and deal directly with your insurance company. C&L Auto Body is owned and operated by the Buonsanti family, who strives to treat clients like family. Come by the shop 781 E San Bernardino Road in Covina. Or you can email, call (626) 445-6630 or visit www.CandLAutoBody.com.
The best way to fight against auto body corruption is to carefully check policies before you need body work. Reviewing your policy on an annual basis is a good idea, anyway. Make sure your policy remains current. And don’t forget to read the fine print. This is because many insurance policies bury references to “non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts.”