Illinois Law Allows You to Select Your Own Auto Body Repair Shop
- Andrew Bartlett
- May 1
- 3 min read
If you've ever been in an accident and had to deal with insurance claims, you know the process can be overwhelming. One of the most frustrating aspects is the push from insurance companies to use repair shops they prefer. But here’s some good news: in Illinois, you have the right to choose which auto body repair shop you want to use—even if it's not on the insurance company's recommended list!
In Illinois, a law exists that allows consumers to make decisions about where they want their vehicles repaired after an accident. This law is designed to protect your rights as a car owner and ensure that you have the freedom to select a shop that best meets your needs, without being forced to go with a shop that may not offer the best service or quality for your vehicle.
Why Does This Matter?
Insurance companies often have partnerships with certain repair shops. While these partnerships might seem convenient, they don’t always work in your favor. Some insurance-recommended shops may not have the best reputation, use lower-quality parts, or even be less experienced in working with your specific vehicle model. By giving you the right to choose your own shop, Illinois law ensures that you're not stuck with a less-than-ideal option.
What Does the Law Say?
Under Illinois law, after an accident, the decision of where to take your vehicle for repairs is entirely yours. Even if your insurance company provides you with a list of preferred shops, it cannot force you to use them. Here’s the key takeaway:
You are not required to use a shop suggested by your insurer. If you prefer a certain shop or a shop that specializes in your vehicle, you can go there.
The insurance company must pay for reasonable and necessary repairs to restore your car to its pre-accident condition, regardless of where you choose to have the work done.
Insurance companies cannot steer you into using specific repair shops or use the shop’s relationship as leverage to settle a claim quickly or cheaply.
How Does This Benefit You?
Better Quality Repairs: You can select a repair shop that is known for its expertise and high standards. Choosing a shop you trust ensures your vehicle gets the attention it deserves, rather than settling for a quick fix that might not meet your expectations.
Personalized Service: Independent auto body shops are often smaller and more personal. You can build a relationship with the technicians and get a level of service that big insurance-recommended chains may not provide.
Specialization: If you have a specific type of vehicle—like a classic car, luxury vehicle, or an electric car—you can choose a shop that specializes in that type of repair. This ensures the technicians are well-equipped to handle the nuances of your vehicle.
Peace of Mind: By choosing your own shop, you avoid feeling rushed into a decision. You can take your time to research, ask for quotes, and review customer feedback, ultimately making the best choice for your vehicle and budget.
What Should You Do If Your Insurance Company Pushes Back?
It’s important to remember that while your insurance company cannot dictate where you take your car for repairs, they may still try to steer you toward certain shops. If you encounter resistance or feel pressured to use a preferred shop, here's what you can do:
Politely but firmly remind them of your right to choose your repair shop under Illinois law.
Get everything in writing. If the insurance company insists on using a particular shop, ask for written documentation outlining why they believe this is the best option for your vehicle.
Review your insurance policy. Your policy should clearly state your rights when it comes to choosing repair shops.
If issues persist, you can contact the Illinois Department of Insurance for guidance and support in enforcing your rights.
The next time you're faced with the daunting task of dealing with an auto repair claim, remember: You don’t have to settle for the insurer's preferred shop. You have the right to choose the repair shop that works best for you, ensuring your vehicle gets the care it deserves. Drive with confidence, knowing that you can take control of your car repair decisions in Illinois!
