09/14/2026
šØYOUR INSURANCE COMPANY DOES NOT GET TO CHOOSE YOUR BODY SHOP-YOU DOšØ
There is a growing practice in the insurance industry that consumers need to be aware of.
Some insurance companies are sending your accident and vehicle information directly to a body shopās estimating system before you even had the opportunity to choose where your vehicle will be repaired.
Why does this matter?
Because it can make it appear as though the insurance company has already selected the repair facility for you - potentially bypassing the very consumer choice protections that are intended to prevent steering.
You have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired.
Insurance companies may tell you that choosing a shop outside of their preferred or ādirect repairā network could mean:
⢠You will have to pay additional out-of-pocket costs.
⢠Your repairs wonāt be warranted.
⢠The process will be more difficult.
⢠You should use the shop they recommend.
⢠You will have rental cost.
Donāt let those false statements pressure you into a decision you didnāt make.
Direct repair programs are based on agreements between repair facilities and insurance companies. Those agreements can include requirements designed to control repair costs. At Elite, we believe that priority should be proper, safe repairs - not simply the cheapest repair.
At Elite, we do things differently.
We follow OEM repair procedures and industry standards because your vehicle deserves to be repaired correctly and safely.
Most importantly, we work for YOU - the vehicle owner.
When you bring your vehicle to Elite, weāre here to advocate for you and your vehicle throughout the repair process. We donāt believe an insurance companyās desire to control cost should come before proper repairs.
Your vehicle. Your choice. Your right to choose your repair facility.
If youāve been in an accident, call Elite before allowing anyone to tell you where you have to take your vehicle.
Contact Elite today and let us help you understand your repair options.