How Do I Make a Claim for My Car Repairs?

After a car accident, your first priority is your health. But once the immediate shock subsides, a pressing and tangible problem is sitting in your driveway: your damaged car. Getting your vehicle repaired and back on the road is a critical step to returning to normal life, but the process of making a property damage claim can be confusing.

Who pays for the repairs? Where should you take your car? Do you have to get multiple estimates? Understanding your options and the step-by-step process will help you navigate the system efficiently and ensure your car is restored to its pre-accident condition without unnecessary costs or delays. This guide will break down the three primary paths you can take to get your car fixed.

Useful Information for You: In a Nutshell

• You Have Three Options: You can (1) file a claim with the other driver’s insurance, (2) use your own collision coverage, or (3) pay out-of-pocket (which is not recommended).
• Option 1 (Third-Party Claim): If the other driver was clearly at fault, you can file a “third-party claim” directly with their insurer. They will be responsible for 100% of the repair costs.
• Option 2 (First-Party Claim): You can use your own collision coverage. This is often faster, especially if fault is disputed. You will have to pay your deductible, but your insurer will try to get it back from the at-fault party’s insurance.
• You Choose the Repair Shop: In Washington State, you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. You do not have to use the shop recommended by the insurance company.
• Document Everything: Keep a detailed file of all estimates, invoices, and communications with the insurance adjuster and the body shop.

Path 1: Filing a Claim with the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance (Third-Party Claim)

This is the most common route when the other driver is clearly responsible for the accident.

When to Use This Path:

• When the other driver has admitted fault.
• When the police report clearly indicates the other driver was at fault.

How it Works:

1. Open a Claim: You will need to contact the other driver’s insurance company to open a property damage claim. You’ll need their policy number and the police report number.
2. The Adjuster’s Inspection: Their insurance adjuster will need to inspect the damage to your car. They may send a field adjuster to look at it, or they may ask you to take it to one of their “preferred” network body shops for an initial estimate.
3. Get Your Own Estimates: While you can use their estimate as a starting point, it’s always a good idea to get at least one or two independent estimates from body shops you trust in the Tacoma area. This gives you leverage if the insurer’s initial estimate is too low.
4. Authorize Repairs: Once an estimate is agreed upon, the insurance company will authorize the repairs. They will typically pay the body shop directly, though sometimes they may send the check to you.

Pros: You don’t have to pay a deductible.

Cons: This process can be slow, as the other driver’s insurer has little incentive to move quickly. They may also try to undervalue the cost of repairs.

Path 2: Using Your Own Collision Coverage (First-Party Claim)

You always have the right to go through your own insurance company, provided you have collision coverage.

When to Use This Path:

• When fault is disputed or unclear.
• When the other driver is uninsured or uncooperative.
• When you simply want the process to move faster.

How it Works:

1. Notify Your Insurer: When you report the accident, tell your insurer you want to open a collision claim to repair your vehicle.
2. Pay Your Deductible: Your collision coverage will pay for the repairs, but you are responsible for paying your deductible directly to the body shop.
3. Your Insurer Seeks Reimbursement (Subrogation): This is the key part. After your car is fixed, your insurance company will go after the at-fault driver’s insurance company to get back the money they paid out—including your deductible. This process is called subrogation. If they are successful, you will get your deductible back.

Pros: Your own insurer has a duty to treat you fairly, and the process is usually much faster and smoother.

Cons: You have to pay your deductible upfront and wait to be reimbursed, which is not guaranteed if fault remains in dispute.

A Note on Choosing a Repair Shop

Under Washington State law, the choice of where to repair your vehicle is yours. The insurance company may recommend a “preferred” or “network” shop, and while these are often reputable, you are under no obligation to use them. You have the right to have your car repaired at the dealership or a local, independent body shop that you trust.

Dealing with a property damage claim can be a frustrating process, especially if the insurance company is undervaluing the damage or trying to force you to use cheap, aftermarket parts. This is an area where a lawyer can help. An experienced attorney can not only handle your injury claim but can also intervene in property damage disputes to ensure you are treated fairly.

If you’re having trouble with your car repair claim in the Tacoma area, search the Car Accident Lawyer Directory Tacoma. Compare profiles and reviews of trusted local attorneys who can help protect your rights for all aspects of your accident claim.

References

• Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) – Auto body repairs:Official guidance for consumers in Washington explaining their rights when it comes to choosing a repair shop and dealing with insurers.https://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-rights-when-it-comes-auto-body-repairs
• Washington Administrative Code (WAC 284-30-390) – Unfair property/casualty claims settlement practices:The official state regulations that govern how insurance companies must handle claims, including standards for fairness and promptness.https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=284-30-390
• Washington State Legislature – RCW 48.30.015 – Unfair practices with respect to insurance claims:The state law that defines unfair and deceptive acts in the business of insurance.https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=48.30.015