You just had an accident, everyone is safe, but both vehicles involved in the collision are damaged. You may have been at no fault or may even be at fault. But the next and most crucial step that you want to go for is to repair your vehicle and get it back on the road, correct? Yes, this is a feasible option, but if you're the vehicle is insured for accidents, why not use that?

So, you call your Insurance company, inform them about the vehicle accident and ask them about the repair works they will provide. This seems to be a very convenient method, right? Your insurer will take care of everything, and you won’t have to worry about anything. Once your claim gets lodged with the insurance the company, they will ask you to take your broken vehicle to their “preferred repairer” and this is where the problem starts! But there are two sides to this version, your insurance may have a preferred repairer, and your insurer does not have a preferred repairer. But, before we get into details, let’s first know what a preferred repairer means:

What does Doe's preferred Repairer mean?

A preferred repairer means a repair company that has a pre-existing partnership with the insurance company that will provide you the claim for your repair work.

what are the advantages and disadvantages of a preferred repair?

The significant benefit of an insurer’s preferred repairer is that it is a convenient and more streamlined process. No matter what the repair company will ask, the insurer will pay for the repair cost, and you can also get life insurance guarantee. 

Sometimes insurers are responsible for poor repair work, as they don’t pay well for the financial cost of the repair work. Most insurance companies don’t have good companies that will carry your repair work. Instead, they use independent repairers. The other problem with a preferred repairer is that it may not be conveniently located near your place.

What if the insurer does not have a preferred repairer?

If your vehicle crashes and you ask your insurance company about the repairs required, and they inform you that the insurer does not have a preferred repairer, then it's time to take your vehicle to a mechanic you trust most. Now, let’s know about the advantages as well as disadvantages if you choose your independent mechanic or if your insurer does not have a preferred repairer.

Advantages:

The best part about getting repair work done by a mechanic you know is that the mechanic has complete knowledge about your car, and you will be satisfied with the repair. In addition to this, the mechanic may be located near your residence or office, so it’s a more convenient option.

Disadvantage of independent mechanic:

The biggest drawback of the independent mechanic and repair work is that some of the repair work may be partially covered. In addition to this, you may have to pay at the spot for the repair until you get reimbursed by the insurance company. Your vehicle may not even qualify for a lifetime repair guarantee.

What should you choose?

Unless you have a compelling reason to choose your repair mechanic or you have a skilled repair mechanic, you must go for the insurer preferred repairs. But, if the insurer does not have preferred repairer, you have no option but to choose the mechanic of your choice. If you are not happy with the repair company, you can change the insurance company and go for the best options.

Your vehicles are one of the most prized possession you have, and thus, for the safety as well as security of your vehicle, it is always advisable to go for the trustworthy option no matter if its an insurance preferred repairer or independent repair work.