The Hidden Risk of Collision Centre Reporting
As your trusted insurance brokerage, we want to bring to your attention a potentially costly practice that’s becoming increasingly common in the auto collision repair industry: collision centre reporting. While it may seem convenient to have the collision centre file a report directly to your insurance company, it’s essential to understand the potential risks involved.
What is Collision Centre Reporting?
Collision centre reporting allows collision centres to electronically file reports directly to your insurance company, often at the click of a button. This may seem like a convenient and efficient way to initiate the claims process, but it can have unintended consequences.
The Risks of Collision Centre Reporting
When a collision centre files a report directly to your insurance company, it can:
- Trigger a claim: Even if you’re not sure if you want to submit a claim, the report can still trigger a claim on your policy.
- Increase premiums: If the insurance company considers the report as a claim, it can lead to increased premiums, even if you don’t end up submitting a claim.
- Affect claims-free discounts: The report can also affect your claims-free discounts, potentially leading to higher premiums in the long run.
- Limit your options: By filing a report directly to the insurance company, you may be limiting your options for resolving the issue. You may be locked into a specific repair shop or process, which may not be in your best interest.
Why Your Broker Should Be Your First Call
So, what’s the best way to protect your interests in the event of an auto collision? The answer is simple: contact your broker first. By reaching out to us before filing a report or contacting the insurance company, you can:
- Get personalized advice: We’ll help you assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
- Understand the potential impact: We’ll explain how the claim may impact your policy, premiums, and claims-free discounts.
- Explore alternative options: We’ll help you consider alternative options, such as paying for minor repairs out-of-pocket to avoid a claim.
- Ensure a smooth claims process: If you do decide to submit a claim, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure a smooth and fair resolution.
Remember: Your Broker Is Your Advocate
In the event of an auto collision, it’s essential to remember that your broker is your advocate. We’re here to protect your interests, provide personalized advice, and ensure that you receive fair treatment from your insurance company.
Don’t let collision centre reporting put you at risk. Contact us first and let us help you navigate the claims process with confidence.