Category: Insurance

After an accident, things tend to get confusing and frustrating. Not only are you dealing with the inconvenience of a damaged vehicle, you may also have injuries and other personal matters to tackle. Insurance companies also tend to have their preferences—and those may not always align with what you want. For instance, what if you want Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for your repairs, but your insurance says no? Can your insurance really refuse that request? As an insurance policyholder in New Jersey, you have certain rights. Knowing those rights will make all the difference in where you take your vehicle for auto repair and what kind of parts you receive.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we want to help New Jersey drivers like you get back on the road safely, which is why we also ensure you know your legal auto repair rights.

Key Takeaways

• If your insurance company refuses OEM parts, your repair estimate may include aftermarket or recycled parts, which can impact quality, fit, and long-term performance.
• In New Jersey, you have the right to request OEM parts, but if your vehicle is over two years old with more than 30,000 miles, you may have to pay the cost difference yourself.
• Auto body shops like Elmer’s Auto Body can advocate for OEM parts on your behalf when safety, fit, or vehicle systems are at risk, and may help get insurer approval with proper documentation.
• You can formally dispute your insurance company’s decision through New Jersey’s Department of Banking and Insurance if you believe aftermarket parts compromise your vehicle’s safety or value.
• Disagreements over parts can delay repairs, so it’s important to review your policy, talk to your repair shop early, and understand your rights under New Jersey law.

What Happens When Insurance Refuses OEM Parts?

After an accident, you expect your vehicle to be repaired using the same quality parts that it originally had. But if your insurance company says no to those OEM parts, what can you do?

1. Check Your Repair Estimate

When your insurance company refuses OEM parts, the repair estimate they approve will likely include aftermarket or recycled (salvage) parts. These are typically less expensive for the insurer but may not offer the same quality, durability, or exact fit as factory parts.

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers and can vary in material, dimensions, and performance. Recycled parts, on the other hand, come from other vehicles and may have wear and tear depending on their age and condition. While your repair shop doesn’t have to use these parts, the insurance payout is based on what they approved. So if OEM parts are used instead, you could be responsible for the cost difference.

2. You Can Legally Request OEM Parts—But May Pay The Difference

You don’t have to accept the use of aftermarket parts for your vehicle repair. However, in New Jersey, there is no legal requirement for OEM use either. In other words, NJ insurance companies can opt to use aftermarket or salvage parts for auto body repair if the vehicle is over two years old and has more than 30,000 miles.

Now, as mentioned previously, while you have the right to request the use of OEM parts, you may have to pay the price difference out-of-pocket. For instance, if the insurance company covers a $200 aftermarket fender and the OEM version costs $400, you would be responsible for the $200 gap. While it’s an added expense, many vehicle owners feel the added quality and long-term reliability are worth it.

3. The Auto Body Repair Shop May Push Back on Your Behalf

Not all situations are final. If your body shop believes the OEM part is necessary for a safe, proper repair, they may be able to advocate for it. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we frequently review insurance estimates and push back when we believe alternative parts could compromise vehicle structure, fitment, or safety. Furthermore, we only use OEM parts for auto body repair.

Shops can provide documentation to the insurer explaining why an OEM part is justified—especially for structural components, ADAS-related sensors, or vehicles still under manufacturer warranty. In many cases, insurance companies will revise their estimate when provided with clear evidence and reasoning.

4. Dispute the Insurance Decision

If the insurance company continues to refuse to cover OEM parts for accident repair, you can file a formal complaint or appeal the decision. In New Jersey, the Department of Banking and Insurance allows consumers to challenge claim decisions when they believe repair quality or vehicle value is at risk.

To support your dispute, you’ll want to collect written estimates, photos, and a repair shop statement that outlines why OEM parts are necessary. Documentation showing that aftermarket parts don’t meet safety or performance standards can strengthen your case.

5. Repairs May Be Delayed

Keep in mind that any disagreement in parts may cause a delay in the repairs. Most repair shops wait for final insurance approval or confirmation on who is paying for what before beginning work. This avoids billing confusion and ensures you’re not surprised by unexpected out-of-pocket costs once the job is complete.

To minimize delays, talk with your repair shop early about your preferences and check your insurance policy for any OEM-specific clauses. Knowing what’s covered—and what’s not—can help avoid frustrating delays and get your vehicle back on the road faster.

What are Your Legal Rights for Auto Repair in New Jersey?

When it comes to car repair after an accident, you have rights, including:

1. The right to choose your repair shop, no matter what insurance recommends. Many insurance companies urge customers to use a “direct-repair facility” or DRP. These facilities have contractual agreements with insurance companies and will perform repairs quickly and within a specified budget, though this isn’t always the best for you.
2. The right to receive written notice on which parts are being used for repairs. If you aren’t being given OEM parts, the insurance company or repair center must tell you that.
3. You also have the right to request OEM parts, even if the parts aren’t covered by your policy.
4. You can challenge insurance decisions that may compromise the quality and safety of your vehicle.

Get OEM Parts for Your Vehicle at Elmer’s Auto Body

When your insurance company refuses OEM parts, you’re not out of options. Rather, you just need to know what steps to take. Whether it’s paying the difference, disputing the claim, or asking your repair shop to push for better parts, you have choices.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we use only OEM parts. Our team works with South Jersey drivers at our three locations—Medford, Mt. Ephraim, and Sewell—to get you the parts you need, even when your insurance company refuses to provide for OEM parts. If needed, we’ll advocate for OEM parts with your insurance company and provide documentation that supports their use.

If you’ve been in an accident and need a top-rated auto body repair shop in South Jersey or guidance on parts, coverage, or claims, give us a call or fill out the contact form. Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey is here to help!

After a car accident, you want to know that your insurance company has your back and will cover the costs of damages and injuries. But what happens when the settlement offer comes in and it’s much lower than you expected? This situation is more common than many drivers realize. Fortunately, a low offer isn’t the end of the road. You have the right to challenge it. In fact, many legal advisers will tell you to challenge a low insurance payout.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve worked with many South Jersey drivers like you for decades. We understand how stressful it can be to deal with insurance companies. Here’s what you should know if you receive a low insurance payout offer after a crash.

Key Takeaways

• Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers to quickly close claims and minimize payouts, but you don’t have to accept the first number they give you.
• You have the right to challenge a low offer by gathering evidence, getting a professional repair estimate, and submitting a formal demand letter with documentation of your losses.
• A good settlement should fully cover vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly diminished value or pain and suffering, depending on the situation.
• If the insurer won’t budge, you can escalate the matter by filing a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance or speaking with a lawyer—especially if significant damages or injuries are involved.

Why is the First Insurance Settlement So Low?

Getting a low settlement may feel like a joke. However, insurance companies will make a quick initial offer after an accident that is lower than what your claim is actually worth. The goal is to close your claim swiftly, reducing what the company has to pay out.

Many drivers feel pressure to accept upon receiving the first check, particularly when without a car or dealing with medical bills. Keep in mind that once you accept, no matter how low the settlement, you give up the right to ask for anything else. Know your options before signing, and know that you can—and should—fight for a better settlement.

What Can You Do If the Insurance Payout is Too Low?

There are several steps you can take to ensure that you get a better settlement if the first insurance payout is too low. Here’s what to do:

1. Don’t Accept the First Offer

You may be tempted to sign the first check. Instead, take your time to review the full details of the settlement. Compare it to your actual costs—including vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and any other expenses. If the number doesn’t add up, don’t be afraid to say no.

Rejecting the first offer won’t cancel your claim. It usually leads to further negotiations, where you can present your side of the story and push for a fairer amount.

2. Get a Detailed Estimate from an Auto Body Repair Shop

If your vehicle was damaged in an accident, have an auto body repair shop draft a comprehensive estimate. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our team will assess all visible and hidden damages and create a written estimate that reflects the true cost of repair. Share the estimate with your insurer, as it gives you solid evidence to support a higher payout.

3. Write a Demand Letter

Writing a demand letter is another key step. This formal approach shows the insurance company that you’ve done your homework and are serious about a fair resolution.

Your demand letter should include:

• A detailed summary of the accident and damages
• A breakdown of your repair costs, medical expenses, and other losses
• Supporting documents (repair estimates, photos, bills)
• A specific dollar amount you are requesting

4. Organize Your Documents

The more organized you are, the better. Keep copies of:

• Your initial claim
• Insurance communications
• Repair estimates
• Medical records (if applicable)
• Photographs of the damage

Documentation reinforces your claim should it escalate.

5. Consider Filing a Complaint or Getting Legal Advice

There is a chance that negotiations may stall, especially if your insurer refuses to alter their payout. In the event of such a dispute, you have the legal right to file a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. You also have the option to consult with an attorney—especially if injuries are involved or if the claim amount is substantial.

In most cases, your insurance company will opt to give you a better settlement as soon as you show willingness to challenge the payout.

What is a Good Insurance Payout After an Accident?

Knowing that your insurance payout isn’t low is always reassuring. Typically, a good insurance payout after a vehicle accident is one that fully compensates all losses—nothing more or less. That means that the settlement will cover:

• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Diminished value

In some cases, you may also receive compensation for pain and suffering if the accident resulted in any kind of physical or emotional pain.

There are also more subtle signs of a good settlement, such as the offer matching a professional auto body shop estimate, including hidden or structural damage; no pressure from the insurance company to accept; all categories of loss are covered; and transparency about how the amount was calculated.

Elmer’s Auto Body Can Help You Get Top-Quality Auto Body Repair

How do you challenge a low insurance payout after an accident? By not accepting when you know it’s too low. If the insurance company’s payout won’t cover the real cost of your accident, you have every right to challenge it. With clear documentation, a detailed estimate, and a willingness to stand your ground, you can negotiate a fairer outcome.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you through it. If you’ve been in an accident and need trusted repair work—and support through the insurance process—contact us today at our Medford, Mt. Ephraim, or Sewell locations. Our team will get you an estimate and advocate for you as needed.

Dealing with car insurance claims after an accident can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never navigated the process before. For drivers in New Jersey, knowing how to file a claim for auto body repairs is crucial to minimize stress and ensure your car is repaired properly. From documenting damage to understanding your insurance coverage and selecting the right repair shop, every step is essential to getting back on the road with confidence.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• In New Jersey, understanding your auto insurance policy, including liability, PIP, and collision coverage, is essential for managing repair claims after an accident.
• Thoroughly document the damage with photos and written details, and report the incident promptly to your insurance provider to avoid delays.
• While insurers may recommend repair shops, you have the legal right to choose a trusted facility like Elmer’s Auto Body for high-quality repairs.
• Avoid pitfalls by keeping detailed records, steering clear of low-quality repairs, and ensuring your insurer covers all necessary costs.
• Trust experienced repair shops to handle insurance negotiations and restore your vehicle safely and effectively, minimizing stress throughout the claims process.

 

Understand the Basics of Auto Insurance Coverage

In New Jersey, drivers are required to have auto insurance that includes at least:

 

• Liability Coverage: Covers damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

 

When it comes to repairs, your collision coverage or comprehensive coverage (if applicable) is what will handle the costs for damage to your vehicle.

 

Documenting the Damage

After an accident, the first step is ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Once it’s safe to do so, carefully document the damage to your vehicle. Take clear photos from multiple angles, capturing close-up shots of specific damage like dents, scratches, or broken parts, as well as wider shots to provide context. These photos serve as vital evidence for your insurance claim. Additionally, make a written record of the accident details, including the time, location, weather conditions, and any other factors that contributed to the incident. If the accident involves another driver, exchange insurance information and gather contact details for any witnesses. Having thorough documentation from the start can prevent disputes or delays with your claim.

 

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance provider promptly after the accident. Most policies require immediate reporting to maintain eligibility for coverage. When you call, be prepared to provide your policy number and a detailed description of the incident. Submit your photos, the accident report (if available), and any additional documentation. An insurance adjuster will likely be assigned to your case to assess the damage and determine the next steps. Being transparent and organized during this stage helps to expedite the process.

 

Choose an Auto Body Repair Shop That Works With You

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right repair shop. While your insurance company may recommend a list of preferred shops, New Jersey law allows you to choose any shop you trust. Selecting a reputable repair facility, like Elmer’s Auto Body, ensures that your car will be restored to its pre-accident condition using high-quality materials and advanced repair techniques. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we do collision repair and work directly with insurance providers to streamline the claims process for you. Our experienced technicians prioritize safety, aesthetics, and performance, so you can drive away with confidence.

 

Of course, you do not have to choose us. Regardless of what insurance providers say, you don’t have to take your vehicle to the collision repair shop that they tell you to use. Do some research; make your own choice. Once you’ve chosen a repair shop, the next step involves collaborating with your insurer’s adjuster to finalize the repair plan and costs.

 

Now, let’s say you hypothetically choose us. We begin by providing a detailed estimate of the necessary repairs. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and repair technology to ensure accuracy and transparency. We also advocate on your behalf, ensuring your insurance company covers the full extent of the repairs needed to restore your car. Throughout the process, we keep you informed with regular updates so you’re never left wondering about the status of your vehicle.

 

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Even minor mistakes can cause delays or complications in the claims process. To avoid these issues, keep all related documents organized, including photos, repair estimates, insurance communications, and receipts. Be wary of repair shops that pressure you into accepting low-quality work or insurers that push for substandard repairs to save costs. Trustworthy repair facilities like Elmer’s Auto Body focus on quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring you receive fair treatment and a reliable repair.

 

Contact a South Jersey Auto Repair Center Today

Car insurance claims can be daunting, but they don’t have to be that way. By documenting damage thoroughly, understanding your insurance policy, and choosing a trusted auto body shop, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure your vehicle is restored to top condition. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re committed to making the process as seamless as possible for New Jersey drivers. From handling insurance negotiations to delivering high-quality repairs, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can assist with your insurance claim.

After getting into a collision and needing repairs, you end up calling your insurance company. The company will send out an appraiser to see how much you need for those repairs. Your insurance company might suggest or even pressure you to use a specific auto body shop. This practice is known as “insurance steering.” While it may seem convenient, it’s important to understand your rights and make informed decisions about where to take your vehicle for repairs.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Insurance steering occurs when insurers direct customers to specific repair shops, often prioritizing cost over quality.
• In New Jersey, you have the legal right to choose your own repair shop, regardless of insurer recommendations.
• If you suspect steering, know your rights, get multiple estimates, and question any incentives offered.
• Choosing your own shop ensures better control over repair quality, communication, and avoidance of conflicts of interest.

 

What is Insurance Steering?

Insurance steering occurs when an insurance company directs a policyholder to use a specific auto body shop, often part of the insurer’s “preferred” network. The company may suggest that these shops provide faster service or guarantee the repairs. However, this recommendation may prioritize cost savings for the insurer rather than ensuring the highest quality repair for your vehicle.

 

Is Insurance Steering Legal?

Insurance steering is merely a suggestion, and therefore, not illegal. However, it is illegal for an insurance provider to force you to choose a specific repair shop. You have the right to select the shop that you trust. Despite this, insurers may still attempt to steer you by providing incentives or spreading misinformation about shops that aren’t in their network.

 

What Should You Do If You Suspect Insurance Steering?

If you believe your insurance company is pushing you to use a specific shop through suggestions, incentives, or misinformation, it’s essential to be proactive. Insurance steering can impact the quality of your repairs, and understanding your rights can help you avoid unnecessary complications.

 

Here are some things to do if you suspect insurance steering:

 

Know Your Rights

Under New Jersey law, you have the right to choose your repair shop—period. Insurance companies may present their “preferred” shops as a convenient or cost-effective option, but they cannot dictate where you take your car. If you feel pressured to select a shop recommended by the insurance company, you are within your rights to refuse.

 

The insurer may suggest that non-preferred shops could take longer or that their work isn’t guaranteed. Don’t let these claims influence your decision. Preferred shops often have agreements with insurance companies that focus on minimizing costs, sometimes at the expense of quality. Remember, it’s your vehicle, and you deserve to choose a shop that prioritizes your safety and satisfaction.

 

Question Incentives

Is your insurance company prompting you to choose their preferred shop with incentives, discounts, and extended warranties? This may seem appealing, but you should be wary of hidden compromises. For example, many preferred shops will utilize aftermarket parts rather than original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, since they cost less.

 

Before you accept the preferred auto repair shop, ask questions. Learn about the detail of the repairs, which parts are used, and whether the shop works for you or the insurance company.

 

Get Multiple Estimates

Insurance companies may ask you to get an estimate from their recommended shop, which isn’t inherently wrong. However, it’s always a good idea to gather estimates from multiple repair shops. This allows you to compare services, pricing, and customer reviews. A trusted, independent body shop will often provide a more accurate and honest estimate based on the specific needs of your vehicle.

 

By having multiple quotes in hand, you can ensure the estimate aligns with the actual damage and repair work required.

 

Reasons You Should Make Your Own Choice on an Auto Body Repair Shop in NJ

Now that you know more about insurance steering and how to protect yourself, let’s discuss some reasons to choose the auto repair shop.

 

Control Over Quality

When you choose an auto body repair shop independently, you have greater confidence in the quality of the work being done. You can ensure that original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are being used instead of cheaper, aftermarket parts that may not meet the same safety and durability standards. This level of control can also ensure that the repairs are thorough and performed to the highest standard, with no shortcuts.

 

At a trusted, local shop, you can expect personalized service that prioritizes your vehicle’s safety and longevity, unlike some insurer-recommended shops that might prioritize cost-cutting measures.

 

Direct Communication

When you choose your own repair shop, you can establish direct lines of communication with the mechanics and technicians working on your car. You can ask questions, request updates, and get a clear picture of what’s happening during the repair process. This transparency provides peace of mind and allows you to understand the timeline and quality of repairs.

 

In contrast, with a shop chosen by your insurer, communication may be more limited. You might have to rely on the insurance company to relay information, which can slow down the process and leave you in the dark about critical details.

 

Evasion of Potential Conflicts of Interest

As mentioned previously, preferred shops have a tendency to use less expensive materials for repairs due to the deals they make with insurance companies. Furthermore, they may rush repairs to keep the cost of labor down for the insurance provider. This doesn’t help you at all.

 

By selecting an independent shop, you eliminate the risk of these conflicts of interest. The shop you choose will be focused on your needs, ensuring that your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition, without cutting corners.

 

Contact a South Jersey Collision Repair Shop Today

If you have been in an accident, it is important to know that you have the right to choose the repair shop. Rather than being steered towards the auto repair shop that your insurance provider recommends, it is suggested that you choose one that you prefer. Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey is here to help.

 

Our experienced team works with all insurance companies while prioritizing your vehicle’s safety and quality. You have the right to choose, and we’re ready to provide you with exceptional service.

 

Contact us today for a free estimate and to learn more about what we can do for you and your vehicle.

If you have been involved in a car accident in New Jersey, you might be wondering how to deal with the insurance process for auto body repairs. Depending on the extent of the damage, the type of insurance coverage, and the fault of the accident, the process can vary. However, there are some general steps and tips that can help you navigate the insurance process and get your car fixed as soon as possible.

Report the accident and file a claim

The first step after a car accident is to report it to the police and your insurance company. You should call 911 and request medical assistance if anyone is injured, and a police report if the damage exceeds $500. A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence for your claim, as it can document the facts and circumstances of the accident.

You should also contact your insurance company as soon as possible and file a claim. You will need to provide them with the details of the accident, such as the date, time, location, and cause of the accident, the information of the other driver and their insurance company, and the police report number. You should also take pictures of the damage to your car and the other car, and any other relevant evidence.

Choose an auto body shop and get an estimate

The next step is to choose an auto body shop and get an estimate for the repairs. In New Jersey, you have the right to choose the auto body shop of your choice, regardless of what your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company recommends. You should look for a reputable and professional auto body shop that is certified by well-known and trusted automotive industry organizations, such as AAA, I-CAR, or ASE. You should also look for an auto body shop that offers written warranties, free estimates, and 24/7 towing services.

Once you have chosen an auto body shop, you should take your car there and get an estimate for the repairs. The estimate should include the parts, labor, and materials needed to restore your car to its pre-accident condition. You should also ask the auto body shop how long it will take to complete the repairs, and what payment methods they accept.

Review the estimate and authorize the repairs

The third step is to review the estimate and authorize the repairs. You should compare the estimate with the coverage and deductible of your insurance policy, and see if there are any discrepancies or gaps. You should also check the type of parts that are used for the repairs, and whether they are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, aftermarket parts, or salvaged parts. OEM parts are the best option, as they are made by the same manufacturer as your car, and match its quality and specifications. However, some insurance companies may only cover aftermarket or salvaged parts, which are cheaper, but may not fit or function as well as OEM parts.

If you agree with the estimate and the type of parts, you can authorize the repairs and sign a repair authorization form. This will allow the auto body shop to start working on your car and order the necessary parts. If you disagree with the estimate or the type of parts, you can negotiate with the insurance company or the auto body shop, or seek a second opinion from another auto body shop.

Pay for the repairs and pick up your car

The final step is to pay for the repairs and pick up your car. Depending on the fault of the accident and the type of insurance coverage, you may have to pay a deductible, a co-payment, or nothing at all. A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay out of your pocket before the insurance company pays for the rest of the repairs. A co-payment is the percentage of the repair cost that you have to share with the insurance company. If you are not at fault for the accident, and you have collision or comprehensive coverage, you may not have to pay anything, as the other driver’s insurance company will cover the full cost of the repairs.

Once you have paid for the repairs, you can pick up your car from the auto body shop. You should inspect your car and make sure that the repairs are done properly and to your satisfaction. You should also get a copy of the final invoice and the warranty information from the auto body shop. You should keep these documents for your records and future reference.

As you can see, the insurance process for auto body repairs in New Jersey can be complex and confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these steps and tips, you can get your car fixed quickly and efficiently, and get back on the road safely.

If you are looking for a reliable and experienced auto body shop in South Jersey, you should contact Elmers Auto Body. We are the trusted auto body shop in the area, with over 40 years of experience in the industry. We offer quality auto body repair services, including collision repair, dent removal, paintless dent repair, and more. We also offer free estimates, lifetime warranties, and 24/7 towing services.

At Elmers Auto Body, we care about your car as much as you do. That’s why we use the latest technology, equipment, and techniques to ensure your car’s body is in perfect shape. Whether you need a minor touch-up or a major overhaul, we can handle it. Call us today at (856) 218-0202 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you.