Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
You have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired.
After an accident, it’s common for insurance companies to suggest a “preferred” or “recommended” repair shop. What many drivers don’t realize is that you are not required to use that shop.
In California, the choice is yours.
What This Means for You
Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
You are allowed to:
- Choose any licensed repair shop you trust
- Decline an insurance company’s recommended shop
- Have your vehicle repaired at a shop that prioritizes quality and safety
Insurance companies may provide suggestions, but they cannot require you to use a specific repair facility.
What You Might Be Told (And What’s Actually True)
You may hear things like:
You may hear things like:
You may hear things like:
“You’ll be responsible for extra charges.”
You may hear things like:
You may hear things like:
“We can’t guarantee the repair if you don’t use our shop.”
You may hear things like:
In Reality:
"This could delay your claim.”
In Reality:
In Reality:
In Reality:
You are responsible only for your deductible and any approved repairs.
In Reality:
Choosing your own shop does not void your coverage.
In Reality:
A qualified repair shop can work directly with your insurance company.
What California Law Says
California Insurance Code §758.5 protects your right to choose your repair shop.
It prohibits insurance companies from requiring repairs to be completed at a specific facility or discouraging you from selecting the shop you prefer.
You can view the full law here:
https://california.public.law/codes/insurance_code_section_758.5
Why Your Choice Matters
Collision repair isn’t just about how a vehicle looks — it also affects:
- Safety
- Structural integrity
- Proper repair procedures
- Long-term reliability
Choosing a shop you trust helps ensure repairs are completed correctly, not rushed or based solely on cost.
Will Mint Collision Work with My Insurance Company?
Yes. We work with insurance companies every day and handle the repair process and communication on your behalf.
That said, our responsibility is to you and your vehicle — not to an insurance company’s shortcuts or cost targets.
Our focus is on:
- Proper repair methods
- Clear communication
- Repairs done right the first time
If You’re Feeling Pressured
If you feel unsure or pressured during the claims process:
- You can tell your insurer you’ve chosen Mint Collision
- You can ask that your choice be noted on your claim
- You can contact us — we’re happy to help explain your options
Sometimes having someone walk you through the process makes all the difference.
Your Car. Your Choice.
You deserve the freedom to choose who repairs your vehicle — and the confidence that it’s being done properly.
We’re here to help, answer questions, and support you through the process.
This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not legal advice.
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