04/22/2026
Your insurance adjuster will suggest a shop. That's normal. Following that suggestion without question? That's where repairs go sideways. Here's what you need to know before you sign anything.
👉Your insurance doesn't get to pick your shop. You do. Idaho law gives you the right to choose your own collision repair facility. Adjusters can recommend, but they can't require.
👉What they don't tell you after an accident: The shop they steer you toward is usually part of a Direct Repair Program (DRP). Those shops agree to discounts, faster cycle times, and cheaper parts in exchange for insurance referrals. That math works for the insurer. It doesn't always work for your car.
👉What is steering and how does it hurt? Steering is when an adjuster pressures you toward a specific shop, often with lines like "we can't guarantee the work anywhere else" or "it'll take longer if you go elsewhere." Both statements are misleading. Steering costs you choice, and it often costs you quality.
👉OEM vs aftermarket: the safety and quality difference. OEM parts come from the original manufacturer and are built to the exact specs of your vehicle. Aftermarket parts are copies, and fit, finish, and crash performance can vary. On a newer vehicle with ADAS sensors, that difference isn't cosmetic. It's structural.
👉 How to push back. Simple scripts that work:
"I've chosen my repair shop. Please process the claim there."
"I understand your recommendation. I'm exercising my right to choose."
"Please send the estimate directly to Vision Collision."
That's it. You don't owe an explanation.
Free estimate, no pressure. We'll walk you through the claim, talk to your adjuster, and make sure your car gets repaired right the first time.
📍 1540 Piper St, Idaho Falls · 40+ years combined experience · Tesla-approved · Link in bio