If you’ve recently been in an accident, you might hear your insurance company suggest or strongly recommend a specific repair shop. While that can sound like a requirement, in most cases, you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. Insurance companies can recommend shops, but the final decision is yours.
At the end of the day, the shop you choose is the one responsible for repairing your vehicle safely and correctly.
Why This Question Comes Up After an Accident
After a collision, most people are dealing with a lot at once. You’re thinking about your vehicle, your schedule, your family, and how to get everything back to normal.
Then comes the insurance call.
It’s common to hear things like:
● “We recommend this shop in your area.”
● “It may be faster if you use one of our partners.”
● “We can’t guarantee the work if you go somewhere else.”
None of this is unusual. But it can create confusion, especially when you’re already under stress.
That’s where this conversation about “insurance steering” begins.
What “Insurance Steering” Looks Like
Insurance steering doesn’t usually sound forceful. It often shows up as suggestions or subtle pressure that makes you feel like you don’t have a choice.
Common things people hear:
● “You might have to pay more if you don’t use our shop.”
● “We can’t stand behind repairs done elsewhere.”
● “Repairs could take longer at another shop.”
● “We work more smoothly with our preferred shops.”
These statements can make it feel like choosing your own shop is risky. But in reality, they’re often based on convenience for the insurer, not necessarily what’s best for your repair.
Why Insurance Companies Recommend Certain Shops Insurance companies often work with what are called Direct Repair Programs, or DRPs.
These are networks of shops that have agreed to work within certain guidelines set by the insurance company. In many cases, this can create a smoother, more streamlined process for handling claims.
There are some benefits to these programs, including:
● Faster communication between the shop and the insurer
● Pre-established pricing agreements
● Simplified paperwork
But it’s also important to understand that:
● The insurance company’s priority is managing claim costs and timelines ● Your vehicle manufacturer’s priority is proper, safe repairs
● Your priority is getting your vehicle back the way it should be
Those priorities don’t always line up perfectly.
Your Right to Choose Your Repair Shop
Many drivers are surprised to learn this, but in most situations:
You can choose the collision repair shop you trust.
An insurance company may suggest a shop, but that doesn’t mean you’re required to go there.
You are allowed to select a repair facility that you feel comfortable with, whether that’s based on reputation, experience, or the way they treat you.
At Wenzl’s Collision Center, we regularly work with all major insurance companies to help make that process as smooth as possible for our customers.
Does Choosing Your Own Shop Cost More? This is one of the most common concerns we hear.
The short answer is: choosing your shop does not automatically mean you’ll pay more.
Insurance companies typically pay based on what they determine is a reasonable cost for repairs. That process happens whether you choose their recommended shop or your own.
At Wenzl’s, we work directly with insurance companies every day to:
● Review estimates
● Communicate about repairs
● Handle supplements if additional damage is found
Our goal is to keep things clear and straightforward, so you’re not stuck in the middle.
Who Is Responsible for the Repair Quality? This is an important point that often gets overlooked.
The repair shop is responsible for the quality of the repair, not the insurance company. That means:
● The shop performs the work
● The shop follows repair procedures
● The shop stands behind the results
At Wenzl’s Collision Center, every repair is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty on workmanship and paint for as long as you own the vehicle.
That’s part of our commitment to doing the job right.
Why Repair Quality Matters More Than You Think
Modern vehicles are more complex than ever.
Today’s cars include:
● Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
● Sensors, cameras, and radar systems
● High-strength materials and structural components
Repairing these vehicles correctly requires:
● Following OEM procedures
● Proper scanning and recalibration
● The right tools, equipment, and training
At Wenzl’s, we follow manufacturer procedures and industry guidelines to ensure your vehicle is restored as safely and accurately as possible.
Because when it comes to collision repair, this isn’t just about how your car looks. It’s about how it protects you and your family.
What To Do If You Feel Pressured
If something doesn’t feel right during the claims process, it’s okay to slow things down and ask questions.
Here are a few simple steps you can take:
1. Remember you have a choice
You don’t have to decide on the spot.
2. Ask for clear explanations
If something sounds unclear, ask your insurer to explain it in plain language.
3. Choose a shop you trust
Look for a shop with strong reviews, clear communication, and a focus on quality.
4. Let the shop help you
A reputable collision center will help handle communication with your insurance company and guide you through the process.
At Wenzl’s, helping customers navigate insurance claims is a big part of what we do every day.
How Wenzl’s Helps You Through the Process We understand that being in an accident can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we focus on making things as simple and clear as possible.
At Wenzl’s Collision Center:
● We are a family-owned shop with over 50 years of history in Lincoln
● Marty and Kelli are here every day, working directly with customers
● We work with all insurance companies
● We communicate clearly throughout the repair process
● We focus on quality, not shortcuts
Our goal is to treat you the way we would want our own family treated.
Final Thoughts: This Is Your Choice
If there’s one thing to remember, it’s this:
You have a say in where your vehicle is repaired.
Insurance companies can be a helpful part of the process, but they don’t make the final decision for you.
Choosing the right repair shop is about trust, quality, and knowing your vehicle is being repaired the right way.
FAQs
Can I choose my own body shop after an accident?
Yes. In most cases, you can choose the repair shop you prefer, even if your insurance company recommends another option.
Do insurance companies guarantee repairs?
No. The repair shop is responsible for the quality of the work and any warranty offered.
Will my claim be delayed if I choose my own shop?
Not necessarily. A quality repair shop can work with your insurance company to keep the process moving smoothly.
Ready to Get Started?
If you have questions about your repair options or need help navigating an insurance claim, we’re here to help.
Schedule an estimate at Wenzl’s Collision Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. Visit us at 4515 N 62nd Street, or call us to get started today.