Will it cost me more if I don't use the insurance company's preferred shop?

No, not in Massachusetts. Your insurance company is required to pay the reasonable cost of repair at the shop you choose. If they try to pay less than the written estimate from your chosen shop, we'll supplement and negotiate the difference on your behalf.

What do I say to my insurance adjuster?

Be direct. Tell them: 'I've chosen [shop name] for my repair. Please send the paperwork there.' You don't need to justify the choice or argue. If they push back, repeat your choice. Adjusters are trained to steer, but they're also required by law to honor your decision.

What if I've already agreed to use a preferred shop?

You can still change your mind. Until the repair actually begins, you're free to choose a different shop. Call us and we'll coordinate the transfer, including retrieving your vehicle if needed.

Does this right apply to all types of claims?

Yes. Collision, comprehensive, and third-party liability claims in Massachusetts all give you the right to choose your shop. The only exception is if you're repairing under a warranty that specifies authorized shops (like a manufacturer extended warranty), which is separate from your auto insurance.

Your rights

Your right to choose your own auto body shop

In Massachusetts, you have the absolute legal right to choose which auto body shop repairs your vehicle. No insurance company can require you to use a specific shop, even if they have a 'preferred' or 'direct repair program' list. This right is protected by state law: 211 CMR 123.00 and Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 §34O.

What the right to choose actually means

Your insurance company is required to pay for a reasonable repair at the shop you select. They can suggest shops. They can tell you a shop is on their 'preferred' list. What they cannot do is refuse to pay, delay payment, or threaten to reduce coverage because you chose a different shop. If they do, that's steering, and it's a violation of Massachusetts law.

Why "preferred" shops exist

Insurance companies build relationships with specific shops that agree to discounted labor rates, aftermarket or used parts, and faster cycle times. This is cheaper for the insurer. It's not always better for you. Steering you to a preferred shop is convenient for your insurance company's bottom line, but the 'efficiency' often translates into corner-cutting on the repair: aftermarket bumpers that don't fit right, skipped scan-and-calibration steps, and paint blends that don't hold up.

How to assert your right

It's simpler than insurers make it sound. When you report the claim, tell your insurance adjuster clearly: 'I've chosen Mike's Auto Body in Fall River for my repair.' Give them our address (535 Bay Street, Fall River, MA 02724) and phone number ((508) 675-1194). They're required to honor that choice. If the adjuster pushes back, repeats the 'our preferred shops are faster' line, or says it will cost you more, politely repeat your choice. You can also bring us your claim information directly and we'll handle the communication with your insurer for you.

Why choosing matters for safety and quality

A good collision repair restores your vehicle's structure, safety systems, and appearance to factory specification. A bad one leaves you with airbag sensors that don't deploy correctly, a frame that's slightly out of tolerance, and ADAS cameras that haven't been recalibrated. The difference isn't visible on pickup. It only matters the next time you're in a crash. Choosing a certified shop that does the work right the first time is how you protect yourself and your family.

Frequently asked

Questions we hear often

No. In Massachusetts, you have the legal right to choose your own auto body shop. Your insurer can suggest shops on their preferred list, but they cannot require you to use one, and they cannot refuse to pay or reduce coverage if you choose a different shop.

Exercise your right. Bring your car to Mike's.

Family-owned, I-CAR Gold Class Certified and ASE certified, and uncompromising about doing the repair right. Start with a free photo estimate. No insurance approval needed.

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