Choosing an auto body shop for an insurance claim.

Choose the repair shop, not just the first name offered.

California Department of Insurance guidance says your insurer cannot require repairs at a particular auto body shop. A recommendation is not the same as a requirement. Shop choice does not itself settle coverage, the repair scope or what you owe.

Check the repair business through California's Bureau of Automotive Repair before authorizing work. Ask the receiving shop to confirm the vehicle, the type of damage and its inspection arrangements rather than assuming an online inquiry reserves space.

Ask the insurer what it will cover.

Use these questions to make the claims conversation specific. Record the answers and the name of the representative rather than treating a general website description as approval.

• Which coverage is being considered, and what deductible or limits apply?
• What inspection or estimate is needed before repairs are approved?
• Is towing, storage or a rental vehicle covered, and under what conditions?
• Who reviews additional damage discovered during repair?
• How will payment be issued, and what costs could remain mine?

Compare the work included, not only the total.

Ask for an itemized estimate and a clear explanation of the proposed parts and labor. BAR explains that additional repairs require authorization. Ask about any inspection or disassembly charge before agreeing to it, including what happens if you decide not to proceed.

For your own comparison, line up estimates by damaged area. Note whether a line describes repair, replacement, refinishing or further inspection. A lower number is difficult to compare when the two documents describe different work.

• Which panels or components are included?
• What is still subject to inspection or disassembly?
• How will changes be explained and approved?
• Which documents will I receive when the work is completed?

Use a photo estimate as a starting point.

Restart Collision's form lets you indicate an insurance claim, self-pay or that you are not sure yet. An insurer name and claim number are optional when you choose the claim option. No insurance-card upload is needed.

The team reviews your vehicle details and original damage photos before follow-up. This is a preliminary inquiry, not a binding repair quote, insurance approval or authorization to begin work. Confirm the repair facility and any inspection before taking the vehicle anywhere.