In Virginia, like most states, the vehicle’s owner gets the final say in where the car gets repaired following a car accident. If you were the victim in a car accident in Virginia, you will need to make a choice where to have your car repaired. If you have concerns about aftermarket parts or the ability to make quality repairs, you can talk with several shops and choose the best one to fit your preferences.
In some cases, the money to repair your vehicle—or replace it, if totaled—will be a part of the car accident compensation you recover from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. In others, the property damage claim is separate, and you can get your car repairs completed and paid for while still working on recovering compensation for your injuries.
The Insurance Company Cannot Demand You Use the Repair Shop They Recommend
According to the Virginia State Corporate Commission, it is not legal for insurance companies to demand a policyholder or victim of a car accident use a specific repair shop or choose only from a list of mechanics and body shops. They can, however, present you with a list of “preferred partners” or auto repair shops they recommend.
Often, they have agreements with these shops to accept their repair estimates without an adjuster, or they have adjusters who come by to look at the vehicle there. This type of agreement can make the process easier and quicker on accident victims, and this may be particularly appealing if you are also dealing with personal injuries. It is important to note though, that they may also have agreements with these body shops to use cheaper, aftermarket parts or take other cost-cutting measures while repairing your car.
Do Not Feel Pressured to Choose a “Preferred” Repair Shop
When choosing an auto repair facility, you have the right to choose the facility with which you feel most comfortable. Many people prefer repairs done with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, even if the repairs cost more. This choice is up to you.
While choosing a “preferred” repair shop may help you navigate the difficult claims process, you ultimately have the final say. If you want to use someone who is not on their preferred list, that is your right and may be a good idea in many situations.
If the insurance company denies your claim or refuses to pay out the full amount required to repair or replace your vehicle, you may want to discuss your options with a Fairfax car accident lawyer.
Let the Parrish Law Firm, PLLC Look at Your Injury Accident Case
The Parrish Law Firm, PLLC takes on car accident cases in Virginia, pursuing payouts for accident victims. We can help you take on any insurance company or at-fault motorist and build a strong case for going after the damages you need and deserve. Attorney Jim Parrish used to represent insurance companies, and now he protects accident victims from those same companies.
Not only do Jim and his team know what it takes to prove a car accident case and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other losses, but they use their experience within the insurance industry to ensure your right to recovery remains protected throughout the process.
An out-of-court settlement or court award for your Virginia car accident claim could include recoverable damages such as:
- Medical care costs
- Ongoing and future care costs
- Rehabilitation and therapy as prescribed
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Related out-of-pocket costs
- Car repairs or replacement
- Rental car costs
- Replacement of other damaged property
- “Pain and suffering” and inconvenience
Va. Code § 8.01-246 generally gives us two years to file a lawsuit, beginning on the date of the accident. Act quickly before time runs out. If we do not take action before the statute of limitations runs out, the courts could bar you from holding the at-fault motorist liable.
Talk to a Virginia Car Accident Attorney About Your Damages
At the Parrish Law Firm, PLLC, we take care of the legal issues facing car accident victims so they can focus on healing. We can identify the liable parties, investigate your accident, build a strong case, document your damages, and pursue the payout you deserve based on the facts of your case.
Let attorney Jim Parrish and his team use his years of representing the insurance companies to your advantage. He will aggressively negotiate a just settlement with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance provider or take your case to court and fight for a verdict in your favor.
Call (571) 229-1800 for a free case review and consultation. We can help you understand your rights to recover damages for your injuries.
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