Collision Car Insurance Texas TX

Reader’s Question:

Just last week, I was rear ended. Do I have to bring the car to a collision center that is connected to my car insurance company here in Texas, or can I just have it fixed at any certified collision center?

Kurt

Houston, TX

Hello, Kurt! Since you are from Texas, we have to refer to the Texas Department of Insurance, the insurance regulator for the state of Texas. It says that every after an accident and your car needs repairs, there are two options available for you: You can wait for the car insurance company to send over a claim adjuster and inspect your car and make an estimate for the needed repairs, or you can just inform them that you’ll be the one to provide repair estimates from mechanics and auto body shops.

Car insurance companies in Texas cannot require you to use a particular repair shop, although some companies may give you their favored or preferred collision centers. Please remember that with regards to the scope of collision and comprehensive claims, the extent of the car insurance company’s obligation is only to pay for parts of like kind and quality (LKQ). You can’t expect materials or parts more expensive than the original part. The amount car insurance companies are obligated to pay depends on the car’s actual cash value, which is the amount your car would be worth if it were not damaged. Meaning, company will pay only up to its actual cash value or its fair market value before the accident.

 

Tags: auto insurance claims, Car Insurance Company, collision insurance coverage